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
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