Busy people don't have time to waste on exercise that doesn't work. The Discover Strength Podcast focuses on bringing on the best minds in the field of evidence-based exercise so you can look and feel your best in a fraction of the time.
The Discover Strength Podcast is an outstanding podcast that brings together excellent speakers, engaging topics, and interesting conversation around the subject of evidence-based resistance training. As a personal trainer, I feel confident in recommending this podcast to my clients and colleagues because the Discover Strength staff and guests are top-notch and provide some of the best content available on the topic. The podcast consistently delivers valuable information in an easy-to-understand format, making it accessible to a wide range of listeners.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is the quality of the guests and topics that are featured. The Discover Strength team brings on current exercise practitioners and expert trainers who provide valuable insights into resistance training. The conversations are informative, educational, and cover a wide range of relevant topics. Whether you're looking for tips on how to train more effectively or want to dive deep into the physiology behind strength training, this podcast has something for everyone.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its commitment to evidence-based exercise. The Discover Strength team brings on researchers and strength training experts who deliver complicated information in an easy-to-understand way. They back up their methods with science, experience, and results, providing listeners with actionable advice that can help them achieve their fitness goals. The episodes are packed with valuable information, and I always come away from each episode having learned something new.
While there aren't any major downsides to this podcast, one minor criticism could be that some episodes may be too technical for beginners or those who are unfamiliar with strength training concepts. However, the majority of episodes strike a good balance between providing detailed information while still being accessible to a wide audience.
In conclusion, The Discover Strength Podcast is a must-listen for anyone who cares about their health and wants to get the most out of their workouts. With its excellent speakers, engaging topics, and commitment to evidence-based exercise, this podcast stands out as one of the best resources available on resistance training. Whether you're a seasoned trainer or just starting out, this podcast has something to offer. Keep up the great work, Discover Strength team!
Fitness content is everywhere—but how do you separate science from sound bites?In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson shares four expert-backed filters for determining whether fitness information is credible. Learn why flashy confidence is a red flag, why you shouldn't blindly follow the fittest person in the room, and how real experts lean into scientific nuance—not oversimplified answers.You'll learn: ✅ Why conviction isn't credibility ✅ Why “fit” doesn't mean “right” ✅ How to recognize when an “expert” is speaking outside their domain ✅ What it really means to be science-basedIf you're serious about evidence-based training, this is your filter.Listen now—and share it with a friend who deserves better advice.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the United States. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
For years, we've been told that losing weight is the key to better health. But what if everything you thought you knew about fitness and fatness is wrong? In this episode, Discover Strength CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson unpacks the science behind the Fit and Fat Paradox — revealing why being aerobically fit and strong matters far more than the number on the scale.You'll learn:Why fitness (VO2 Max and strength) trumps weight as a predictor of mortalityHow healthcare professionals and even fitness experts fall into anti-fat biasThe surprising role strength training plays in improving both aerobic capacity and longevityWhy resistance training should be the cornerstone of your exercise routine if you're serious about healthAt Discover Strength, we believe busy people don't have time to waste on exercise that doesn't work. We deliver 30-minute strength workouts, twice per week, with an expert trainer to help you look and feel your best, in a fraction of the time. Subscribe, share, and discover why evidence-based resistance training is the new medicine.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the United States. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson breaks down three powerful "here and now" techniques to immediately improve the quality of your next strength training workout. From eliminating momentum at the start of each rep, to applying maximum effort with proper intent, and maintaining perfect form regardless of how many reps you did last time—these science-backed strategies will elevate every set. Whether you're an elite athlete or training for longevity, these principles apply to you.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
On this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO Luke Carlson is joined by Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, a leading researcher at McMaster University, to bust the top myths about strength training for women, especially during menopause. They unpack the truth about lifting heavy, the role of estrogen, cortisol misconceptions, and the science behind “cycle syncing.” Dr. Colenso-Semple also shares practical, research-backed guidelines for effective resistance training at any age—and why it doesn't need to be complicated.Follow Dr. Colenso-Semple on Instagram: @dr.lauren.cs1Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO Luke Carlson is joined by esteemed strength training researcher Dr. James Fisher for a special “10 Questions” conversation. With over 130 scientific publications to his name, Dr. Fisher dives deep into some of the most pressing topics in resistance training today—from the science behind training at long muscle lengths and the most common myths about women and strength training, to the minimal effective dose for strength gains and the role of supervision in maximizing workout outcomes. They also explore Dr. Fisher's thoughts on optimal training intensity, misconceptions around volume, strength training for older adults, and underappreciated cognitive benefits. This wide-ranging, research-backed discussion is packed with practical insights for fitness professionals and enthusiasts alike.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
n this episode, CEO Luke Carlson recaps six powerful insights from the 2025 Discover Strength Summit in Dallas. From expert perspectives on pain management and resistance training for older adults, to hospitality-driven leadership lessons and the fight against health misinformation—this episode is packed with actionable takeaways for fitness professionals and clients alike.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into groundbreaking new research on how strength training enhances running economy and durability for long-distance runners. Fresh off the Boston Marathon, Luke shares key findings from a study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, explaining why strength training isn't just beneficial—it's essential for maintaining performance late in a race. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
On this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson is joined by Dr. Alyssa Larish, academic obstetrician, researcher at the Mayo Clinic, and competitive athlete. They dive into the latest evidence around exercise and pregnancy, the benefits of resistance training for maternal and fetal health, common myths, safe training guidelines, and how to optimize postpartum recovery. Dr. Larrish also shares her own training journey as she prepares for a speed climb on Everest.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson challenges one of the biggest myths in fitness — that more is better when it comes to strength training. Luke unpacks the history behind the popular "3 sets of 10" approach, shares insights from his time with the Minnesota Vikings, and breaks down decades of research supporting single-set training. Learn why doing less can actually help you achieve more strength, muscle growth, and health benefits — all while saving time.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson breaks down the latest research on protein and how it can amplify the benefits of your strength training. Luke shares a practical 5-point protein action plan, covering everything from how much protein you need, when to consume it, and why it's especially important as you age or aim to improve body composition. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson breaks down three essential strategies for effectively integrating strength training into your competition prep—no matter the sport.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
Live from Las Vegas, Discover Strength CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson is joined by a panel of experts—David Geschneidner, Rick Ricknell, and Taylor Melvin—to break down the six biggest insights from the Health & Fitness Association's 2025 Convention.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke Carlson dives into groundbreaking new research on the effects of strength training for women across different stages of menopause. Published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, this study examines how hormonal changes impact strength gains, balance, and muscle adaptation.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Discover Strength CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson shares the ten books that have had the greatest impact on his leadership, business philosophy, and the foundation of Discover Strength. Dividing them into three categories—business, leadership, and biographies—Luke discusses why these books matter and how their insights can shape the way you think about work, leadership, and building a successful company. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or just passionate about growth, this episode will give you a powerful reading list to elevate your thinking.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson explores the growing popularity of strength training and the critical role that machines play in maximizing results. With the fitness industry shifting towards resistance training, Luke debunks common myths surrounding free weights and highlights seven key benefits of using strength training machines.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
Join Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength, as he dives into the science behind improving body composition and the evolution of the Body Comp Challenge, a program that has helped clients build muscle and lose fat for over 16 years. Luke shares the origins of the challenge, the latest research on strength training, protein intake, and fat loss, and what Discover Strength has learned along the way.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
Join Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength and exercise physiologist, as he shares five practical strategies for staying motivated when you don't feel like working out.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into the popular yet often misunderstood topic of core training. Luke explores the origins and evolution of core training, its widespread popularity in fitness culture, and its scientific validity. He clarifies what the "core" actually encompasses and addresses common misconceptions about its role in improving performance, preventing injuries, and achieving aesthetic goals.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson explores the impact of resistance training on body composition. Luke explains how strength training increases lean muscle tissue at any age, enhancing resting metabolic rate and long-term fat reduction. He dives into the benefits of training to muscle failure, which boosts calorie expenditure post-workout, and contrasts this with the limited calorie-burning effects of aerobic exercise. Luke emphasizes the importance of assessing body composition, not just weight loss, to focus on fat loss and retain muscle mass. This episode provides practical insights into improving body composition through evidence-based strength training strategies.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into one of the most enduring myths in strength training: the belief that repetition ranges and weight loads exclusively determine muscle strength, endurance, size, and tone. Luke debunks these misconceptions with research-backed insights, emphasizing that reaching muscle failure—whether at 5 reps with heavy weight or 45 reps with light weight—is the critical factor in achieving strength and endurance improvements.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson has three special guests on to discuss the Lengthened Partials Study that was conducted across 15 Discover Strength locations. James Fisher PhD, James Steele PhD, and David Gschneidner will discuss the importance of this study, the design, and the results! We want to thank all of the exercise physiologists who were involved in conducting these workouts and the clients who participated. This is the largest study of its kind, and we are driven and excited to continue adding to the body of resistance exercise research. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson dives into the critical focus of injury prevention and safe strength training practices. Drawing from decades of experience in professional sports and fitness, Luke explores the philosophy of “first, do no harm” and offers actionable insights to ensure your workouts build strength without compromising your health.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson delves into a new study on single-set versus multiple-set strength training. Discover the evidence-based insights on training to failure, its impact on muscle growth, power, and endurance, and how this research challenges decades of conventional wisdom.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson delves into eccentric muscle contractions. Learn why the often-overlooked "lowering phase" of strength training exercises is more beneficial than lifting, and how focusing on eccentrics can lead to greater strength, hypertrophy, and even faster recovery. From practical workout tips to groundbreaking research, Luke explores the magic of eccentrics, their role in targeting fast-twitch muscle fibers, and their applications for athletes, aging populations, and rehabilitation.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives deep into the concept of progressive overload—a foundational principle of strength training. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, host Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength and an exercise physiologist, dives into the fourth Workout Focus in this mini-series: momentary muscle failure. This concept shifts the emphasis from the number of reps or the weight lifted to the importance of training until you can no longer perform another repetition with perfect form.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength and exercise physiologist, dives into the vital role of recovery in optimizing strength training results. Often overlooked, recovery is where the real magic happens—allowing your body to repair, rebuild, and reap the benefits of your hard work.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into the second installment of the "Workout Focus" series. The topic? The power of one set. Luke unpacks the science behind why a single, intense set can produce the same—if not better—strength training results compared to the traditional 3 sets of 10 approach. He delves into the history of sets, the role of muscle fiber recruitment, and the surprising findings on calorie burn and time efficiency. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
We are launching a mini-series! Over the next 12 weeks, Luke will discuss one thing each week that you can obsess over before your workouts so you can get more out of them. These are foundational to any strength training workout, and you also have control over these 12 focuses. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson discusses Steven Covey's concept of "Sharpen the Saw" from his 1989 best-seller, "Seven Habits of Highly Effective People." Covey challenges the reader to have mechanisms to "sharpen the saw" in 4 different components: Physical, social, emotional, spiritual, and emotional. Luke walks through what his "saw sharpening" mechanisms are to inspire you to create your own. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson discusses the "Never Stop Improving" ethos. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode Luke discusses a new research article that gives a simple but comprehensive framework for how we can look at the benefits of what strength training stimulates. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke Carlson, CEO and Exercise Physiologist, details 5 approaches to measuring progress from your strength training workouts. Anything worth doing is worth measuring.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength and Exercise Physiologist, goes deep on the importance of form in your workouts. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke is joined by Dr. Sarah Carlson, who is a family medicine physician, to discuss GLP-1 Drugs, what they are, how they are used, and how they affect our muscle mass. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke discusses 10 evidence-based workout amplifiers that will optimize your results. These strategies can be implemented before, during, or after your workout. This is a must-listen!Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
On today's episode, we pivot to a topic related to business. In this episode, Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength and exercise physiologist, walks through 6 frameworks for resilient thinking during tumultuous times. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke is joined by Dr. James Fisher where they discuss a new project involving Discover Strength Clients. The main focus of the project is the perception of supervision during strength training and how those perceptions are different between male and female participants. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke discusses the lessons learned from legendary NFL strength and conditioning coaches Dan Riley and Steve Wetzel and how these lessons actually impact our workouts today.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke Carlson discusses a new research article that details the amount of exercise we should be doing and, more importantly, how we can make it more efficient. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson discusses three pervasive fitness myths that will not die. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this Episode, Luke Carlson discusses 9 common factors of the best workouts he has ever had. This list serves as a guide for productive, safe, intense, evidence-based strength training.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke talks about all things Olympics, correlation, causation, and whether we should really be taking advice from Olympic athletes.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
Join Luke on this special episode where he pulls back the curtain to discuss how we think about the business. Luke walks through the five questions that make up the vision of Discover Strength.Core ValuesPurposeCore BusinessStrategyLong Term GoalDiscover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke is joined by a very special guest, Rick Rignell. Rick is a Partner Exercise Physiologist with Discover Strength, and his knowledge of strength training and the machines you are using is a reason this episode is a must-listen. Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
Join Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength, as he dives into the importance of "Strengthspan" with insights from Dr. Avery Faigenbaum's article in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
In this episode, Luke dives into the 5 New Studies and How They Impact Your Next Workout.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke is joined by David Gschneidner, Discover Strength's vice president of Operations and Exercise Physiologist, and Dr. James Fisher from Solent University to announce the new study being conducted at Discover Strength studios in collaboration with Solent University. The purpose of the study is to compare the lean muscle adaptations of a Lengthened Partial Protocol vs. Full Range of Motion Resistance Training.This will be the largest study of its kind.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke Carlson discusses the critical aspects of strength training and injury prevention, inspired by Dr. Peter Attia and Dr. Sarah Oikawa's research. Here are the key takeaways:Continue to Strength Train when InjuredDon't look at Strength training as a SportMove Slower when you strength trainTrain What's HealthyAdapt WorkoutsLimit the Range of MotionIsometrics Contractions or Static HoldsCross-EducationLet Pain be Your GuideAvoid Dangerous Exercise: First, do no harm.#DiscoverStrength #StrengthTraining #InjuryPrevention #FitnessTips #HealthyAgingDiscover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode, Luke sits down with special guest Dr. Martin Gibala to discuss HIIT and Zone Two Training. Dr. Martin Gibala is the world leading researcher from McMaster University in Canada on High Intensity Interval Training and the author of The One-Minute Workout: Science Shows a Way to Get Fit That's Smarter, Faster, Shorter Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
In this episode Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength, discusses 6 Strength training elements to double down on.Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Introductory Workout HERE !
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