Matthew Ibrahim on Nordics for Hamstring Health and Staying Curious as a Coach

Matthew Ibrahim on Nordics for Hamstring Health and Staying Curious as a Coach

Author: Mike Robertson June 6, 2025 Duration: 54:30

I’m not sure there’s anything the Internet and social media like more than an argument.

And while our parents taught us not to talk about religion or politics in public, for some reason, they forgot to tell strength coaches not to argue about the Nordic hamstring curl and whether it’s valuable or not in a strength and conditioning program.

But luckily, today’s guest did his entire Ph.D. topic on the Nordic, so we can take a deep dive and nerd out as much as we want!

Matthew Ibrahim is a strength and conditioning coach, college professor, public speaker, and author. He serves as Clinical Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at Endicott College, where he also volunteers in Athletics as a Strength & Conditioning Coach and Faculty Consultant.

And this show was really fun because the 1st half is geared towards nerding out on science and application, and the second half takes a deep dive into staying curious and leveling up as a coach.

Quite simply, there’s something in here for everyone – so let’s dive in!

 

I think the devil’s in the dose, right? People don’t appreciate (the Nordic)…”it’s like an RDL.”

No, it’s A LOT different.

– Matthew Ibrahim

 

This Week on the Physical Prep Podcast:

  • Why continuous learning is essential in the strength and conditioning field.
  • The role Nordic hamstring curls can play in an overall hamstring-health program.
  • How research finding have to go beyond the lab to truly benefit athletes.
  • A great question every coach should ask: What else are you great at BEYOND coaching?
  • The role networking can play in opening doors for young coaches.
  • Why it’s not just the exercise but the DOSE that really matters.
  • How fatherhood has brought new perspective to Matthew’s life.
  • What it’s REALLY LIKE to write a book these days.
  • Why being present in the moment is vital for personal fulfillment.

 

 

Connect with Matthew:

 

Related Links:

 

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The post Matthew Ibrahim on Nordics for Hamstring Health and Staying Curious as a Coach appeared first on Robertson Training Systems.


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.
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