#93 - Mark Macqueen - Grapplers Who Think Strength Doesn’t Matter Aren’t Living in the Real World

About this episode

The episode features a discussion with world champion Mark Macqueen about his transition from powerlifting to jiu-jitsu and the importance of strength in grappling.

We talk through a world champion’s pivot from powerlifting to jiu-jitsu, why coaching culture at Kingsway changed everything, and how smarter stand-up, pinning, and true strength finally showed up on competition day. We share a clear plan for lifting, cardio, and plyos that keeps you improving without burning out. • ADCC Trials win, what improved, and why confidence clicked • Kingsway and ROKA coaching structure, daily feedback, and partner quality • Austin move, visas, lifestyle trade-offs, and training rhythm • Powerlifting career highlights, identity, and the emptiness after winning • Strength’s real role in grappling performance and longevity • Practical S&C: two-day lift split, one cardio, simple patterns • Rep ranges, sets, plyos, and keeping compliance over years • UK training roots, cross-training, and competition plans Support the show GET OUR FREE EMAILS - https://pjfitnesscoaching.aweb.page/GrapplersPerspective Co-Hosts: Paul Johnson (Glasses) and Danny Allen (Beard) Insta - https://www.instagram.com/bodyforbjj and https://www.instagram.com/rollingstrongbjj Audio & Video Edited, and Produced by Paul Johnson Looking to find, organise or manage seminars? Download…

People in this episode

Hosts: Paul Johnson, Danny Allen

Guest: Mark Macqueen

Topics covered

• strength training
• jiu-jitsu
• coaching culture
• powerlifting
• competition performance
• training plans

Keywords

• grappling
• strength
• jiu-jitsu
• powerlifting
• coaching
• competition
• training
• S&C
• ADCC Trials

Sponsors

Sticky Grips

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Kingsway, ROKA, ADCC

Products: Sticky Grips Finger Tape

Places: Austin, UK

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