A Culture of Accountability
The University of Houston’s men’s basketball program is a study in disciplined preparation. Workouts begin at 6:30 a.m., with players arriving even earlier. This isn’t just about early mornings; it’s about creating a culture where everyone is present, from coaches to video staff. Alan Bishop, the team’s Director of Sports Performance, emphasizes the importance of development and accountability. It’s a system that demands commitment, and the results are visible both on and off the court. Houston’s physical and demanding play style reflects their rigorous training regimen.
Customized Equipment for Customized Training
Since arriving in 2017, Bishop has transformed Houston’s facilities into a haven of custom-made equipment. Seventy-five percent of their weight room gear is bespoke, sourced from companies worldwide. Whether it’s thick handle revolving dumbbells from the UK or custom-built hamstring pieces from Pennsylvania, each piece serves a specific purpose. This approach allows for precision in training, catering to the unique needs of their athletes. It’s not about having the most equipment; it’s about having the right equipment.
Bishop’s training philosophy revolves around mobility, stability, and skill. He stresses the importance of developing a mind-muscle connection, a skill often overlooked in traditional training. Players have gained up to 40 pounds under his guidance, thanks to a periodization model that balances volume, hypertrophy, strength, and power.
Beyond the Gym: Holistic Training
Bishop’s program extends beyond weightlifting. Summer workouts include unconventional drills like Danny ball and strongman training, designed to enhance speed, power, and conditioning. As preseason approaches, the focus shifts to total-body training, with sessions tailored to player roles. High-minute players train twice weekly, while others have additional conditioning. Nutrition plays a crucial role, with a structured program divided into meals, snacks, and supplements. Sleep is treated as vital as nutrition, with custom sleeping pods for recovery.
Each player is expected to maintain sub-10 percent body fat, aligning with Houston’s high conditioning standards. The nutrition program supports this, providing nutrient-rich meals and snacks. Supplements focus on health metrics like Vitamin D and Omega-3, driving performance from a micro-nutrient perspective.
Exercises That Define Strength
Bishop’s training includes exercises that build strength and toughness, crucial for postseason success. The overhead press is a staple, promoting shoulder health and enhancing horizontal strength. It’s a vertical exercise with horizontal benefits, ensuring a balanced development.
The front squat is another key exercise, offering greater transfer to athletic performance than traditional back squats. By elevating heels, Bishop targets leg strength, crucial for vertical force production. This method accommodates athletes with different body types, ensuring effective strength gains.
Facts Worth Knowing
- •💡 Houston’s weight room equipment is 75% custom-made.
- •💡 Players have gained up to 40 pounds through Bishop’s program.
- •💡 Each player is expected to maintain sub-10 percent body fat.
