Bill Hartman brings 35 years of experience, and more importantly, a totally unique way of thinking about rehab, performance, and movement.
In our conversation, we take a deep dive into how he moved from standard, rule-based systems to a principle-driven framework called the UHP that helps him make better decisions with less guesswork.
Along the way, we get into the bigger ideas behind his model—why shape and position matter, how the whole system influences performance, and why the best solutions often come from understanding movement in context rather than chasing isolated fixes.
It’s always great to get Bill back on the show, and I promise this one won’t disappoint.
Let’s dive in!
Quotable Quotes:
I got frustrated because I kept hitting dead ends – so I scrapped everything and started from scratch
The minute you start adding resistance, you’re adding a challenge where the load becomes the constraint
It’s not just about “pushing this thing” – It’s like “hold this position as you do something”
This Week on the Physical Prep Podcast:
Bill’s background and how he got started in the PT and S&C worlds
His shift from rigid rules to principle-based thinking, and why frustration pushed him to build a new model.
Why the goal of training or PT is better reasoning, NOT perfect prediction
How the model has evolved over time, but the core principles have stayed the same
Bill’s approach to evaluating in the return to play process
Why you MUST know and understand the injury, the constraints, and the specific demands of the sport
A big consideration: Injuries are rarely isolated, and why you have to look at all the pieces of the puzzle when creating a RTP program
How external load can become a constraint – and that can be a good OR bad thing (depending on how it’s applied)
Table Tests: Why Bill uses them, and what he wants to get out of them
How to take the information from table tests and apply it to your standard gym exercises (squats, lunges, etc.)
Why all table tests are inherently “dirty”
The power of consolidating change and stabilizing an athlete before progressing them
How manual techniques and mobilizations fit into Bill’s treatment programs these days
Final thoughts, and how you can learn more about Bill’s work!
Are you tired of using clunky, antiquated program design tools like Microsoft Word or Excel?
Are you ready to level up your programming, and make it far more engaging to your clients and athletes?
If so, you need to check out Train Heroic.
I’ve been using TrainHeroic for years now both here at RTS and at IFAST, and I can tell you the user experience both as an athlete and coach is truly second to none.
Mike Robertson hosts the Physical Preparation Podcast, a space dedicated to the intricate craft of building better athletes and more effective coaches. Instead of quick fixes or fads, conversations here focus on the principles and practical details that form the foundation of sustainable performance. Each episode features in-depth discussions with leading experts from the health and fitness world, breaking down complex concepts into actionable strategies. You’ll hear honest explorations of training methodologies, injury prevention, and the nuanced decisions that separate good programs from great ones. This podcast serves as a continual education for anyone serious about understanding the ‘why’ behind physical preparation, whether you’re designing regimens for others or refining your own athletic journey. The dialogue is grounded in real-world application, aiming to sharpen your critical thinking and provide tools that can be implemented immediately. Tune in for a consistently insightful look at how intelligent training philosophy translates into tangible results, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art and science of human performance.
Author: Mike Robertson
Language: en-us
Episodes: 50
Okay my friends, today we’re trying something 100% and completely NEW with this podcast! Yes, even after 500 episodes, I’m still looking for ways to keep it fresh and exciting, so I really hope you enjoy it. In today’s M…
If you train young athletes, this episode is for you! Here I’m going to share 7 powerful insights from my 25 years of coaching young athletes. Whether it’s customizing your communication, monitoring your energy, or pract…
Dr. Marc Lewis is the Director of Applied Sports Science for the Houston Texans, and prior to his time in the NFL, he also had stints at Penn State, Wake Forest, Virginia Tech and the University of South Carolina. Now to…
What a year it was in 2025! Serious growth with IFAST Basketball. The gym is humming along. And my kids are getting BIG! But even with all the good stuff, there’s always a need to look back and reflect. Sure some things…
Are you a smaller college, facility or business owner who is looking to take their sports performance program to the next level? If so, you’re going to LOVE today’s episode. Dr. Anne Beethe currently serves as the Direct…
What’s the difference – or maybe the intersection – between self-control, self-discipline and self-belief? And even if you don’t care so much about the semantics and definitions, how can YOU build more of each to become…
You know how I know Cassanandra Forsythe is awesome? She said a big part of why she got into strength training and working out was watching one of my all-time favorite shows as a kid – American Gladiators! Now in all ser…
Look my friend – like it or not, 2026 is right around the corner. Which leads me to a simple question: Will this be your best year EVER? Whether we’re talking about growing your fitness business, becoming a better coach,…
If you’ve ever competed in strength sport, you know the platform can be a lonely place. You’ve trained for weeks or months on end, and here you are – standing in front of a bunch of strangers, trying to move a weight you…
Whether it’s due to the increased pace of play, stronger and more explosive athletes, or poor management of the training and recovery process, it should come as no surprise that soft-tissue injuries are on the rise. And…
