Speed, Agility & Quickness Explained: SAQ Training Guide

Speed, Agility & Quickness Explained: SAQ Training Guide

March 10, 2026 · 16 min

About this episode

Rick Richey explores the concepts of Speed, Agility, and Quickness in athletic training and performance.

Welcome to another action-packed episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast!” Join award-winning host Rick Richey as he deep-dives into SAQ—Speed, Agility, and Quickness—cornerstones of elite athletic and fitness performance. In this episode, you'll discover: · What SAQ really is and its critical role in the OPT (Optimum Performance Training) Model · Speed decoded: linear speed, stride rate vs. stride length, starting/stopping speed, and pro tips for maximizing your sprint · Agility demystified: the secrets of change of direction, multidirectional speed, and why today’s athletes are faster (and more nimble) than ever · Quickness training: how improving your reaction and total response time can set you apart—featuring real-world examples from track, tennis, and Major League Baseball · How you can train SAQ, the science and actionable drills you can start using today to improve your fitness, athleticism, or client results [LISTEN TO THE END FOR BONUS: Discover how sports performance training is evolving and how you can get certified with NASM’s exclusive Performance Enhancement Specialist course!] This episode is perfect for personal trainers, coaches, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts eager…

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