Exercise Classifications for Resistance Training Prescriptions – Part 1

If you’ve ever tried to build a proper exercise library, in a spreadsheet, an AMS, or a custom tool, you already know it breaks faster than expected.

Classify by muscle group and it works for bodybuilders, but it starts falling apart with team sport athletes. Add movement pattern and it helps, until a rehab context needs more than “squat”, “hinge”, “push”, or “pull”. And specificity? A back squat is a competition lift for a powerlifter and a primary exercise for a rugby player. Same exercise, completely different frame.

I hit this exact wall while working on a new version of the Strength Card Builder. This first video walks through what he calls the “place-of-things” classification: a large framework that tries to capture everything from movement pattern and joint dominance to muscle action type, resistance type, and specificity and context. Twelve dimensions. He’s upfront that this is not the practical answer. The point is to map the full problem before cutting it down to something coaches can actually use, which is what Part 2 is for.

The downloadable files include the full classification mind map and an accompanying CSV, ready to pull into your own training app, AMS, or internal coaching system.

Members can watch the full video and download the accompanying files below.