Wits & Weights: Strength and Nutrition for Skeptics

Someone unfollowed the show after saying they were "grossed out" by AI in fitness. Apparently I'm now part of the evil AI empire.

 Get Fitness Lab, the #1 coaching app for people over 40 that adapts to YOUR recovery, YOUR schedule, and YOUR body. Build muscle, lose fat, and get stronger with daily personalized guidance. https://witsandweights.com/app--Are you over 40 and trying to stay muscular, lean, and strong, but PSA tests and prostate fears leave you confused? Worried that one elevated PSA could derail your strength training with an unnecessary biopsy?In this conversation with men's health expert Dr. Stephen Petteruti, we break down the truth about PSA testing, hormone health, and what most fitness podcasts get wrong about men's health and longevity. We talk about why body recomp and lifting weights matter even more as you age, how certain treatments impact testosterone and weight loss, and what proactive steps keep you training hard for decades.I share how evidence-based fitness shapes my own approach, and Steve gives a grounded perspective on protecting your hormones without sacrificing your physique.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – PSA tests and misunderstood prostate risks4:15 – Why biopsy thresholds are flawed9:42 – How lifestyle shapes cancer and longevity14:55 – Understanding atypical dormant cells18:40 – Repurposed drugs and monitoring protocol24:10 – Testosterone, muscle, and men's health31:42 – High-to-low dosing theory explained41:20 – Philosophy of vitality over fear48:05 – Strength training and premeditated nutrition50:37 – Where to find Dr. Petteruti's workEpisode resources:Intellectual Medicine Podcast. Start with this episode – Think Twice Before Getting a BiopsyWebsite: drstephenpetteruti.com Waitlist for his book “Fighting Cancer Like a Man”Instagram: @dr.stephenpetterutiYouTube: @intellectualmedicine Support the show

Download Fitness Lab (live now for iPhone!) – Get AI-powered nutrition analysis, daily guidance, and adaptive strength training that responds to your biofeedback. Like a physique coach in your pocket.Built for adults over 40 who want sustainable fat loss and muscle building without guesswork. Get 20% off through Black Friday at http://witsandweights.com/app--We compare traditional calorie and macro tracking with a pattern-based approach that uses eating behaviors, biofeedback, and trends to drive fat loss and muscle gain over 40.What if cutting-edge AI nutrition and physique coaching could analyze your eating patterns, correlate them with your body's response, and provide a high level of awareness without logging every meal? Learn how Fitness Lab is the #1 (and only) app that can spot correlations across sleep, stress, meals, and training to give precise daily coaching, especially for midlife adults dealing with issues like hormones and recovery.This approach requires less mental energy so you don't fall off track, while teaching you how to "level up" your system to get and maintain results for life. Episode ResourcesDownload Fitness Lab AI-powered coaching, 20% off through Black Friday: http://witsandweights.com/appTimestamps0:00 - Why tracking calories and macros works (to a point) for fat loss and muscle building 6:45 - Pattern-based nutrition coaching explained 9:50 - The 5 metrics that replace calorie counting for body composition 13:46 - How to track eating behaviors, meal patterns, and biofeedback 18:56 - Building nutritional literacy whether or not you're logging food 22:31 - 4 foundations required for pattern analysis success over 40 25:41 - Protein awareness without counting every gram 29:36 - Daily consistency and minimum viable tracking habits 33:56 - Using feedback vs. hitting calorie targets 37:06 - When to use calorie tracking vs. pattern analysis (or both) 40:41 - How AI makes pattern-based coaching seamless and effortlessSupport the show

Fitness Lab is live!Fitness Lab is an innovative, game-changing AI coach that adapts to your patterns, turns data into daily actions, and helps you LEARN about yourself and the science behind everything.From periodized programs and form checks to one-photo nutrition and biofeedback, the goal is less stress but more progress.Designed for building muscle and losing fat over 40, here's exactly how it works:Quick onboarding personalizes everything to your situation (including unique scenarios like hormone symptoms and HRT, weight loss medications like GLP-1s, and whether you have your own program or trainer)Daily coaching briefings personalized to YOUR dataConversational workout coaching (not manual logging)Meal photo pattern analysis (one photo daily, not calorie counting)Evening biofeedback that drives adaptationWeekly check-ins with AI analysisReal-time coaching chat trained on 400+ episodesApple Health integration is coming soon! (This is mentioned in the episode but is currently turned off while we make it the best experience)This isn't ONLY a new tool for physique transformation.It also teaches you to coach yourself, changing your identity from someone who guesses to someone who knows what they're doing.Black Friday pricing: 20% off through November 28Get it now: http://witsandweights.com/appSupport the show

Get early access to Fitness Lab before the official launch! Join my email list at witsandweights.com/email (if you're already on just reply and ask for the “secret link”)Get Cozy Earth bamboo-derived sheets (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 20% off) that regulate temperature for better sleep and recovery--Even if your tracker or workout/nutrition app logs everything, it still can't tell you WHAT to do when progress stalls.We dig into the hidden gap sabotaging results... the missing interpretation layer... and show how to turn raw data into smart, timely decisions that finally help you get unstuck.If you've hit a wall with MyFitnessPal, MacroFactor, or your favorite lifting app, this conversation explains why the numbers look fine while your body says otherwise.You'll hear how midlife physiology changes the rules over 40, why plateaus are often upstream issues like sleep debt or weekend habits, and how qualitative signals like training effort, hunger, and mood complete the picture missed by most algorithms.Learn how a coaching-style layer can synthesize your logs, photos, and health data into clear actions: training load, rest and recovery, protein and carbs, or a weekend plan that prevents backslides. The goal isn't more tracking. It's better decisions from the tracking you already do, so you can build muscle, lose fat, and sustain results with less guesswork and more confidence.Timestamps0:00 - Why tracking alone isn't enough for building muscle over 40 2:18 - The missing interpretation gap that keeps you stuck 5:30 - What fitness apps actually do well (and their limitations) 9:10 - When tracking algorithms miss the root cause of your plateau 14:06 - Why recovery capacity matters more in your 40s and 50s 18:56 - How identity and behavior change drive sustainable results 22:56 - Sleep and recovery optimization for strength training 25:06 - Making personalized coaching accessible and affordable 28:56 - How adaptive training decisions improve muscle-building progress 32:16 - Analyzing meal patterns beyond calories and macros for better body compositionSupport the show

Get early access to the app AND the Black Friday pricing by joining my list (if you're already on my list, ask for the “secret link”):https://witsandweights.com/email--Get a first look at Fitness Lab, my new AI coaching app that turns your daily signals into clear guidance on food, training, recovery, and progress.Built for lifters over 40, it adapts plans in real time with low-stress tracking, meal pattern analysis, conversational training feedback, and daily/weekly check-ins to keep you consistent and accountable.Then it gives you daily activities related to what's most important to you, whether that's lifting, sleep, hydration, eating habits, protein, steps, and more, tailored to your current goal of fat loss, muscle gain, body recomp, or maintenance.It's not another "logger". Much more than that, Fitness Lab is a coaching intelligence layer that adapts to YOUR recovery, YOUR data, YOUR life.This Tuesday, November 18th, Fitness Lab goes live with Black Friday pricing, which means it will be 20% off through November 28.If you want early access to the app AND the Black Friday pricing, join my email list Support the show

Join the early access list for my new Fitness Lab app, the #1 adaptive training and nutrition app that evolves with your progress, recovery, and lifestyle so you can build muscle and lose fat over 40 with science-based AI coaching:https://witsandweights.com/email--400 episodes and 4 years of challenging the fitness industry's myths and proving that building muscle and losing fat doesn't require complicated protocols or expensive interventions!Today you'll hear 15 reflections from the Wits & Weights journey, from listeners who transformed their physiques through evidence-based training, to world-class strength coaches and researchers who've shaped the field, to fellow podcasters who understand what consistency really means.Evidence-based fitness and body recomposition work across borders, backgrounds, and goals. Building muscle, losing fat, and getting sustainably strong comes down to consistency, systems thinking, and rejecting the industry's noise in favor of what actually works.Episode ResourcesJoin the FREE Facebook CommunitySearch the entire podcast library to find an episode mentioned in today's showTimestamps0:00 - 400 episodes of evidence-based fitness and building muscle1:43 - Jo S.: Breaking through training plateaus with strength training3:09 - Julia D.: How muscle tissue improved chronic health conditions8:41 - Kevin Palmieri: Prioritizing fitness while building a business12:41 - Pam Sherman: Strength training for women over 5014:41 - Dr. Eric Helms: Combating misinformation with evidence16:48 - Jenn Trepeck: Consistency for sustainable fat loss18:23 - Sam Brake Guia: Podcast growth and marketing22:39 - Brandon DaCruz: Evidence-based physique coaching25:00 - Carol Hanshew: From client to nutrition coach27:49 - Allan Friedman: Food as a tool for strength training over 4030:34 - Tony Perri: Flexible approach to building muscle32:35 - Gabilu M.: Morning workout motivation34:18 - Mike Millner: Consistency in fitness content36:06 - Alana V.: Weekend diet protocol for fat loss38:10 - Megan Dahlman: Strength training consistency41:22 - Building a strong physique through evidence and systemsSupport the show

Join the early access list for my new Fitness Lab app, the #1 adaptive training and nutrition app that evolves with your progress, recovery, and lifestyle so you can build muscle and lose fat over 40 with science-based AI coaching:https://witsandweights.com/email--Struggling to build muscle or lose fat after 50, even though you're lifting weights and eating protein? Think your metabolism or hormones are to blame? You're not alone.I team up with fitness coach Pam Sherman to answer your most pressing questions about body recomp, strength training, and nutrition for women over 50. We cover how to train around joint pain, boost bone density, eat enough protein, and understand what “lifting heavy” really means. You'll learn how to manage metabolism, recovery, and hormones, and set meaningful goals that go beyond weight loss.This episode of Wits & Weights blends evidence-based training and nutrition to help you feel stronger, leaner, and more confident at any age. Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – How does strength training improve bone density?5:54 – What's a realistic timeline to regain lost muscle after 50?9:35 – How can I stay consistent when motivation dips?12:11 – How do I train safely with joint issues or pain?15:05 – Is yoga or pilates enough for strength training?17:15 – How much protein should women over 50 eat?21:15 – How do I calculate a sustainable calorie deficit?28:21 – Does metabolism really slow down with age?34:12 – Can loose skin improve with strength training?35:20 – What's the best way to recover as we age?39:50 – How can women set meaningful long-term fitness goals?46:50 – What's the most essential home gym equipment?Episode resources:Instagram: @pam_sherman1 Tiktok: @pam_sherman1  YouTube: @PamShermancoWebsite: pamsherman.com Support the show

Optimize your recovery where it matters most—in bed. Get Cozy Earth's temperature-regulating bamboo sheets that help you sleep deeper and recover faster from training. 100-night trial, 10-year warranty. Get 20% off with code WITSANDWEIGHTS... because you can't build muscle without quality sleep:https://witsandweights.com/cozyearth--How much protein do you need to build and maintain muscle?Do you need to hit the "leucine threshold" for muscle protein synthesis?Is there an "anabolic window" after strength training?Does per-meal distribution, timing, and amount matter?Today we're revisiting the latest evidence on PROTEIN! Whether you're eating 250 grams daily or struggling to hit 100, this evidence-based breakdown will help you dial in your nutrition strategy for maximum muscle gains without overthinking macros or wasting money.Episode ResourcesReady to hit your protein targets consistently without the guesswork? Join Physique University and get access to the Meal Planning Advisor GPT, a custom AI tool that builds flexible meal plans matching your exact macros, schedule, and food preferences. Use code FREEPLAN for a free custom nutrition plan: https://witsandweights.com/physiqueCozy Earth bamboo-derived sheets: witsandweights.com/cozyearth (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 20% off)Timestamps0:00 - What the research actually shows about protein intake 5:28 - Daily protein targets for muscle building 10:56 - Why more protein doesn't mean more muscle gains 14:40 - Per-meal protein distribution and the leucine threshold 21:06 - The anabolic window myth and when timing actually matters 24:40 - Protein quality - animal vs plant sources for strength training 28:17 - When high protein intake backfires (and steals your gains) 31:42 - Common protein mistakes lifters make (and easy fixes)Support the show

I've been building something for the few months. Something that's going to change how you approach building muscle and losing fat after 40.I'm not telling you what it is yet.But if you want the first preview tomorrow, join my email list at https://witsandweights.com/emailMore coming this week.Support the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get a FREE custom nutrition plan using this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan—Why do so many people who know how to lift weights, track macros, and prioritize recovery still struggle to stay consistent long term? How do you design a fitness system that actually survives the chaos of real life? And what hidden “meta skills” separate lifelong success from endless restarts?Alan Lazaros, CEO and co-host of Next Level University, joins me to break down the architecture of consistency, how to build muscle, lose fat, and achieve lasting results through evidence-based fitness and self-mastery. We explore the difference between skills and meta skills, why consistency is a mental framework, and how engineering principles apply to sustainable strength training, body recomp, and weight loss.If you've ever felt stuck between knowing and doing, this conversation will rewire how you think about fitness forever. Tune in to Wits & Weights with Philip Pape, your go-to fitness coach for evidence-based nutrition and training.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:40 – The concept of meta skills5:50 – Flow and the challenge-skill sweet spot9:10 – The compound effect and daily progress12:00 – Redefining consistency as a meta skill19:00 – Minimum viable habits for long-term success26:00 – Alan's seven pillars of fitness37:00 – Why engineers struggle with fitness47:00 – Focus as the ultimate meta skillEpisode resources:Website/Podcast: nextleveluniverse.comInstagram: @alazaros88 LinkedIn: @alanlazarosllc Facebook: @alan.lazaros Support the show

Get your free Strength Training for Hormone Health guide at witsandweights.com/free to learn how to structure your training to support healthy hormone levels as you age, applying the principles from this episode.--Every week there's new advice about training. Train to failure. Don't train to failure. Do more volume. No, you're overtraining. Meanwhile, you're stuck making zero progress because nobody's telling you what actually matters.Today, Philip ranks the 5 training variables that drive 80% of muscle growth, plus one hidden foundation that amplifies them all. Using the concept of Leverage Points from systems thinking, you'll discover which variables create disproportionate results and which ones are just noise distracting you from real progress.This is an evidence-based blueprint to stop spinning your wheels and start building the physique you want.Episode Resources12 Rules of Training Volume to Build More Muscle | Ep 348Join Physique University for Training Templates and Lifting LessonsTry MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSTimestamps0:00 - Why you're stuck and overwhelmed by conflicting training advice 3:18 - Variable #1: Training volume (the primary driver of muscle growth) 8:02 - Variable #2: Training effort and proximity to failure 12:54 - Variable #3: Progressive overload (the adaptation mechanism)20:37 - Variable #4: Exercise selection and mechanical efficiency25:14 - Variable #5: Frequency (how to distribute weekly volume) 30:05 - Bonus variableSupport the show

Get Cozy Earth temperature-cooling sheets at witsandweights.com/cozyearth and use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 20% offJoin the 6-Week Strong Finish Challenge starting November 18th at witsandweights.com/physique and use code FREEPLAN for a custom nutrition plan. Learn to maintain your strength and body composition through the holidays using flexible systems (optimal, minimum, and bailout strategies) instead of rigid plans that collapse under pressure.--Your body isn't listening. You train consistently, watch your protein, do everything the evidence says, but body recomposition isn't happening.The problem isn't your effort. It's the signal between your actions and your physiology.Discover the 5 biggest body recomp mistakes keeping intelligent, hard-working lifters stuck at the same body fat and muscle mass for months.You'll get specific fixes to align your training, nutrition, and recovery so your body can actually build muscle and lose fat simultaneously... even if you're over 40.Episode ResourcesTry MacroFactor free for 2 weeks with code WITSANDWEIGHTS at witsandweights.com/macrofactorTimestamps0:00 - Why your body ignores your effort despite consistent training2:49 - Mistake #1: Eating like you're dieting instead of building muscle8:17 - Mistake #2: Training to burn calories instead of build muscle 13:42 - Mistake #3: Ignoring recovery and sleep 23:20 - Mistake #4: Tracking the wrong metrics 28:25 - Mistake #5: Expecting rapid resultsSupport the show

Love what you're hearing from Adam? Take the guesswork out of training with the MAPS workout programs from Mind Pump.—Ever feel like the more fitness podcasts you listen to, the less you know about how to build muscle, lose fat, and actually see progress? Are AI tools and influencers helping your nutrition and fitness goals, or just creating more noise? If you want real results with body recomp and strength training, this episode cuts through the confusion.I sit down with Adam Schafer, co-founder of Mind Pump, one of the best fitness podcasts out there, to uncover what truly matters in building muscle and mastering your metabolism. We break down how to stay consistent, filter evidence-based training from fitness fads, and focus on the habits that last. Adam shares how to simplify lifting weights, fuel your body with the right macros, and make progress that sticks.If you're ready to think clearly, train smarter, and make fitness fit your life, join me, Philip Pape, on Wits and Weights.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:25 – Setting the stage for scientific thinking10:50 – Why critical thinking beats blind belief15:07 – The meaning of epistemology25:01 – How empiricism changed modern science34:52 – What black swans teach us about truth48:27 – Cynicism vs. healthy skepticism59:50 – Making sense of the hierarchy of evidence1:12:56 – Turning data into practical results1:28:50 – Where to find credible fitness researchEpisode resources:Official Podcast/Website: mindpumpmedia.com Free resources site: mindpumpfree.com“Ask” portal: askmindpump.com Instagram: @mindpumpadam Youtube: @MindPumpTV Support the show

Get your free Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint to optimize your protein intake, calories, and meal timing for maximum muscle growth at any age:https://witsandweights.com/muscle--Can you still build that much muscle in your 40s and beyond?Discover why strength training over 40 might actually be your BEST opportunity to build serious muscle and strength.Learn the evidence-based science showing that muscle tissue remains highly responsive to training well into old age, why midlife gives you strategic advantages younger lifters don't have, and the engineering framework that explains how building capacity now expands your margin of safety for decades to come.Let's discuss muscle building, metabolism, aging, and what's actually possible when you apply the right nutrition and fitness strategies at any stage of life.Timestamps:0:00 - Why building muscle over 40 is still possible 3:50 - The science of muscle growth and aging 6:50 - Why muscle loss isn't inevitable 9:20 - How older adults respond to resistance training 12:15 - Adjusting protein and recovery with age 16:16 - Why midlife gives you a strength training advantage 22:30 - Building your long-term muscle reserve 27:18 - The nutrition and training inputs for muscle growth 31:16 - Tracking strength gains and body composition 36:24 - Your simple strength training plan to start today 43:25 - Consistency and asking for help 47:05 - The cost of delaying your muscle building goals Support the show

Get your free Eating Out Guide to make smart nutrition choices at restaurants and handle social drinking situations while staying on track with your body composition goals:https://witsandweights.com/free--Your tax dollars paid for a government study on alcohol and cancer. Scientists completed it. Then it disappeared.Discover why a major health study was buried, what the evidence-based research actually reveals about alcohol's cancer risk, and how this impacts your nutrition choices and long-term health.Learn the truth about alcohol consumption that affects your metabolism, body composition, and longevity goals.Episode Resources:Alcohol Intake and Health StudyNational Cancer Institute: Alcohol and Cancer RiskWHO Europe: No safe level of alcohol consumptionTimestamps:0:00 - The buried alcohol-cancer study 1:11 - Why this matters for your health and body composition 2:43 - How the study vanished and why 3:52 - Surgeon General's warning label push 5:46 - International evidence on cancer risk 7:04 - What the science shows about alcohol and cancer 9:19 - How alcohol damages DNA and disrupts metabolism 11:28 - Light drinking still increases cancer risk 14:41 - Industry lobbying keeps labels off bottles 17:12 - Debunking "alcohol is heart-healthy" myths 20:21 - Understanding relative vs absolute risk 23:01 - Alcohol's impact on muscle building and protein synthesis 25:45 - How alcohol affects fat loss and body composition 28:30 - Practical drinking strategies for liftersSupport the show

Build muscle and lose fat with evidence-based fitness. Free custom plan when you join Physique University (code: FREEPLAN): witsandweights.com/physique—How can you tell when science is solid and when it's just being sold to you?Dr. Eric Helms returns for his third appearance to unpack how we interpret fitness research, why “evidence-based” doesn't always mean “accurate,” and what it really takes to think critically about the information you consume.We break down the philosophy of knowledge and why understanding how we know things leads to better results. Eric and I unpack skepticism vs. cynicism, spotting red flags in “sciencey” claims, and balancing real-world experience with research. You'll also learn a simple framework to stay curious without getting misled.Today, you'll learn all about:2:25 – Setting the stage for scientific thinking10:50 – Why critical thinking beats blind belief15:07 – The meaning of epistemology25:01 – How empiricism changed modern science34:52 – What black swans teach us about truth48:27 – Cynicism vs. healthy skepticism59:50 – Making sense of the hierarchy of evidence1:12:56 – Turning data into practical results1:28:50 – Where to find credible fitness researchEpisode resources:MASS Research ReviewOn Google Scholar: Eric R Helms, h-index: 35, i10-index: 68, and cited by 6811On PubMed - PMID: 24092765, with 89 articles (including 20 preprints)Instagram: @helms3dmj YouTube: @Team3DMJ Support the show

Join Physique University and get the IGNITE 4-Day Time-Saving Training Template (use code FREEPLAN for a custom nutrition plan when you join)--Can you cut your gym time by 40 to 50% while still training effectively to build strength and muscle?Learn 7 research-backed strategies to help you save tons of time with your workouts to reclaim up to 200 hours a year without sacrificing results.Timestamps:0:00 - Too much time in the gym? 4:52 - Tip 1: Cut exercise bloat 7:54 - Tip 2: Prioritize compound lifts 10:03 - Tip 3: Antagonist supersets 12:50 - Tip 4: Fewer sets, harder effort 17:42 - Tip 5: Increase training density 21:42 - Tip 6: Rest pause and drop sets 25:16 - Tip 7: Smarter warm-ups 28:10 - The math behind saving up to 200 hours a year 30:14 - Consistency, adherence, and enjoymentSupport the show

Join the 10-Week Recovery Diet Workshop tomorrow (Tuesday, October 21) at noon Eastern. Get the complete evidence-based protocol for metabolic recovery without reverse dieting. Just $27 includes the full workshop, replay, 20-page protocol workbook, and bonuses.Register at: http://live.witsandweights.com--Reverse dieting promises to "fix" your suppressed (or "broken") metabolism through gradual calorie increases, but does it actually work?Is it the most efficient way to "recover" after a fat loss phase or years of dieting?Discover what the research actually shows about metabolic recovery, why reverse dieting creates convincing illusions of progress while delaying actual results, and what you should do instead if you're stuck at low calories heading into the new year.Episode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSJoin the 10-Week Recovery Diet Workshop (Tuesday, October 21 at noon ET) - $27 includes workshop, replay, 20-page guide, and bonuses:http://live.witsandweights.comTimestamps:0:00 - Reverse dieting hype vs. evidence 5:00 - Myth 1: Precision reveals "true" metabolism 10:05 - Myth 2: Maintenance is a fixed number 14:50 - Myth 3: Eating more without gaining fat 19:48 - Myth 4: Gradual increases drive recovery 24:25 - What actually drives recovery26:50 - The 6 steps of a proper recovery dietSupport the show

The scale jumps 3–5 pounds after you start eating more and your brain screams, “I knew it, fat gain!”Not so fast. We break down the real reasons behind that early spike and show you how to navigate the first two weeks with confidence (instead of fear). Why does the scale goe up 3-5 pounds or more so quickly? What's actually happening physiologically, and why do most people reverse course right when they should hold steady?If you've ever tried to "eat more" (reverse diet) and felt like you immediately started gaining fat, this explains exactly what's going on.Learn the complete 10-Week Recovery Diet at our live workshop this Tuesday, Oct 21 at noon Eastern. Learn the systematic approach to raising your intake so you can add up to 400-600 calories a day by New Year's without gaining more body fat.Register here: https://live.witsandweights.comSupport the show

Get John's new book Pain-Free Performance: Move Better, Train Smarter, and Build an Unbreakable Body—Knees sore? Back tight? Shoulders giving out? You're not broken, you're just missing the system your body was built on.I talk with Dr. John Rusin, an internationally recognized strength coach, physical therapist, and author of Pain-Free Performance, about how to train hard without breaking down.John reveals why your knees, back, and shoulders fail together, and how the "pillar" (your hips, core, and shoulders) holds the key to lasting strength. We cover breathing and bracing for stability, rebuilding your deadlift safely, and the movement mistakes that cause chronic pain. You'll learn how to train smarter, move better, and build real resilience so you can lift for life, not just the next program.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:43 – The pillar that powers pain-free strength4:19 – Breathing and bracing the right way8:22 – How to train hard without breaking down11:42 – The mistakes keeping you in pain16:38 – Why perfect form isn't one size fits all19:26 – How to find your ideal squat setup27:32 – The deadlift myth that's hurting your back41:12 – Why lunges are your secret weapon51:00 – Shoulder pain fixes that actually workEpisode resources:Pain-Free Performance (John's new book)Dr. John Rusin's website:  drjohnrusin.comDr. John Rusin on Instagram: @drjohnrusin Dr. John Rusin on Youtube: @johnrusin3229 Support the show

Ready to escape the low-calorie trap and eat 400-800+ more calories while maintaining your body composition?Join the 10-Week Recovery Diet Workshop on Tuesday, October 21st at 12pm Eastern and get the complete protocol workbook plus 30 days in Physique University for just $27: https://live.witsandweights.com--Are eating very low calories, yet the scale won't budge, your energy is in the tank, and you're terrified to eat more?Discover what's going on with your metabolism, why "just eat less and move more" stopped working months ago, and the precise protocol for escaping this trap without gaining fat.Learn why reverse dieting doesn't work plus the 5 foundations that determine whether increasing calories will succeed or backfire.Main TakeawaysMetabolic suppression isn't "damage"How eating less leads to fewer calories, reduced training performance, and hormonal downregulation5 critical foundations must be in place before increasing caloriesRecovery dieting vs. reverse dieting and how long it takes to truly recoverEpisode ResourcesJoin the 10-Week Recovery Diet Workshop – Tuesday, October 21st at 12pm Eastern ($27, includes replay, 20-page protocol workbook, and your first month in Physique University) at https://live.witsandweights.comTimestamps0:00 - Why eating less stopped working 0:49 - Recovery vs. reverse dieting 4:56 - The Suppression Spiral explained 8:17 - Five foundations you must fix first 19:12 - How a recovery diet actually works 24:33 - Common failure points to avoid 27:55 - Do you really need recovery? 30:16 - Workshop invite and final takeawaysSupport the show

Register for the Live Q&A with Karen Martel taking place TODAY, October 14 at 12p ET / 9a PT, only in Physique University (replay available if you're listening to this later). Use code FREEPLAN to get a free custom nutrition plan when you join at physique.witsandweights.comGet hormone creams and oils without a prescription at witsandweights.com/karenmartel (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 10% off)--Enjoy this short replay (from Ep 135) with hormone specialist Karen Martel on how women should test testosterone, why SHBG changes your free hormone levels, and how fasting, carbs, and thyroid meds shape results. We share timing tips, key labs, the 5‑alpha pathway, and smarter steps before adding therapy.And what about intermittent fasting, keto, and carb cycling?Join us for today's Q&A with Karen Martel at 12pm ET / 9am PTSupport the show

Track your nutrition without shame or judgment. MacroFactor learns your metabolism and adjusts to what's actually happening with your body with no guilt, no moral judgment, just data. Try it free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS: https://bit.ly/philipmacrofactor--Can you love your body and still want to change it?For years we've been caught between two extremes: the body positivity camp that says any discussion of weight is harmful, and the traditional fitness world that makes you feel guilty for not being lean enough.You want to respect yourself, but you also want to get stronger, healthier, maybe change your body composition.Learn why removing shame doesn't mean removing high standards, how fitness capacity matters more than the number on the scale, and the system for building health while respecting your body right now.Discover the framework of dignity-first performance engineering that lets you pursue measurable health improvements without moral judgment about your body.Main Takeaways:Self-acceptance and measurable health improvements are not in conflictStigma and shame actively make health worseFitness and strength predict health better than BMIUse behavior-based data, not moral judgmentCoach yourself with neutral observation instead of criticism and practice self-compassion to improve adherenceEpisode Resources:Review the podcast by October 15 for a chance to win 3 months free in Physique University Mastery Track ($261 value). Leave a review at Apple Podcasts... EVERYONE who leaves a review will get a gift from me :)Timestamps:0:01 - The false dichotomy: body positivity vs health goals 5:03 - Dignity-first performance engineering framework 9:06 - What the research actually shows 18:33 - Build your health dashboard 28:19 - Behavior-based nutrition approach 31:49 - Coaching yourself without shame 36:09 - Fit at any size (with caveats) 39:20 - Stop letting weight dominateSupport the show

Can you train for both muscle size and strength at the same time, or do you have to choose one?In this bonus from the Facebook Group Monthly Q&A, I answer Mike's question about powerbuilding and whether it's possible to optimize for both goals simultaneously.To ask your own question or get the other 3 answers this month (on balancing running, lifting, and plyos when time is tight, the creatine/coffee debate, and de-bloating after indulging in fun foods), join the free Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/witsandweightsResources Mentioned:Episode: Strength vs. Hypertrophy (The 65% Threshold for Lifters Chasing PRs vs. Muscle Size) | Ep 297Join Physique University to get the IRONCLAD and RESOLUTE powerbuilding programs: witsandweights.com/physiqueGot Questions? Join the Wits & Weights Facebook community and drop your question for the next #AskPhilip!Support the show

Download the Adaptive Cardio Workshop, cardio planning guide, training templates, and get a custom nutrition plan at live.witsandweights.com/adaptive-cardio—Can cardio really kill your gains? What if the truth is the exact opposite? Could you actually build muscle and endurance at the same time, without sacrificing either?I am joined by Kris Gethin, a pro bodybuilder, Ironman finisher, and endurance athlete, to destroy the myth that “cardio ruins muscle.” Kris shares how he transformed from a 220-pound bodybuilder to a full Ironman in six months without losing his physique. We unpack the real science of hybrid training, how to combine strength and cardio effectively, and why recovery, not training volume, is what really determines your success. Tune in to learn how cardio and lifting can finally work together, not against each other.Today, you'll learn all about:2:24 – Kris's asthma story and recovery breakthrough7:45 – How hybrid training changed the game14:28 – Building recovery into your lifestyle21:02 – Grounding, mindfulness, and HRV26:58 – Key running, cycling, and swimming tips32:26 – Why sprinting beats long slow cardio39:28 – Nutrition, fasting, and fueling for performance47:02 – Squats, balance, and hybrid strength51:04 – Hydration, sleep, and long-term healthEpisode resources:Instagram: @krisgethin Website: krisgethin.com Facebook: @krisjohngethin Youtube: @krisgethin Support the show

Join Physique University for our new IGNITE

Review the podcast by October 15 for a chance to win 3 months free in Physique University Mastery Track ($261 value). Leave a review at Apple Podcasts... EVERYONE who leaves a review will get a gift from me :)Get 20% off Cozy Earth temperature-cooling sheets (with code WITSANDWEIGHTS) at witsandweights.com/cozyearth--Confused about which fitness and recovery tools actually work?Ice baths, red light therapy, massage guns, collagen supplements, and more! The marketing makes them all sound like you NEED THEM NOW.Learn about 13 overhyped tools ranked from least to most overhyped based on what the science actually says, when they might help in specific situations, and how to avoid wasting money on gadgets that don't move the needle.1 recovery tool that DOES actually work:Cozy Earth temperature-cooling sheets. Go to witsandweights.com/cozyearth and use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 20% offTimestamps:0:01 - Are these fitness tools worth it? 2:47 - Review giveaway! 5:55 - How I'm ranking these fitness and recovery tools 7:15 - #13: Ice baths 8:22 - #12: Cryotherapy 9:02 - #11: Compression garments 9:48 - #10: Massage therapy and foam rolling 11:43 - #9: Percussion guns 13:11 - #8: Tart cherry juice 14:26 - #7: Heat therapy and sauna 17:42 - #6: Dry needling 18:49 - #5: Red light therapy 20:00 - #4: BCAAs and EAAs 21:51 - #3: Collagen supplements 23:11 - #2: Electrical stimulation (TENS and EMS) 24:20 - #1: Glutamine/supplements 25:28 - What these tools have in common and 3 questions to askSupport the show

We challenge the myth of a “broken metabolism” and show how results improve when your plan matches your current physiology, lifestyle, and recovery.Take the 2-minute quiz that identifies whether you're facing metabolic adaptation, lower insulin sensitivity, or a recovery mismatch along with a 15-page personalized fat loss blueprint with macros, movement, and recipe recommendations: witsandweights.com/quiz--Tired of blaming a “slow metabolism” for stalled fat loss or flat training?Let's fix the real issue: the mismatch between your plan and where your body stands today. Learn about the most common roadblocks to fat loss and how to turn each into a clear path forward.Go to witsandweights.com/quiz to take the free 2-minute metabolism quizSupport the show

Register for the Live Q&A with Karen Martel on Tuesday October 14, only in Physique University (replay included). Use code FREEPLAN to get a free custom nutrition plan when you join ($97 value) at physique.witsandweights.comGet hormone creams and oils without a prescription at witsandweights.com/karenmartel (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 10% off)—What if waiting too long for hormone therapy meant more than hot flashes? What if it set you up for stubborn weight gain, bone loss, and low energy?I talk with hormone specialist Karen Martel about why timing matters for HRT, how hormone shifts impact metabolism, muscle, and mood, and why lifestyle alone isn't always enough. We cover genetics, trauma, and the latest tools, from HRT to GLP-1s—that can help women reclaim vitality in midlife and beyond. Karen Martel is the host of The Hormone Solution Podcast, where she helps women thrive through perimenopause and menopause with practical, science-backed solutions. Today, you'll learn all about:6:35 – How hormones trigger a metabolic storm12:56 – The rise of belly fat and insulin resistance19:11 – Muscle, bone, and recovery challenges23:51 – Life without hormone therapy28:55 – Key tests to watch in your 40s44:12 – GLP-1s as a new tool59:17 – A positive future for women's healthEpisode resources:Karen's Bioidentical Hormone Products (Creams & Oils) - use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 10% offKaren's group hormone coachingSupport the show

Take our free 2-minute Metabolic Quiz and get a 15-page assessment and body recomposition road map Book your Performance Bloodwork Analysis at witsandweights.com/bloodwork to identify your biggest constraints and get a personalized plan based on your hormone levels and metabolic markers. Podcast listeners get 20% off with code VITALITY20.--We've been conditioned to think that spending money directly on coaching, guidance, accountability, and taking ownership of our own healthcare is indulgent, while spending on products, equipment, and supplements feels responsible.The average American spends $13,000 annually treating preventable conditions, while personalizing your health might cost $2,000.Learn how an engineering tool called the Fishbone Diagram helps you prioritize where your resources (time, money, effort) should best be spent.Investing in your health isn't selfish. When you have more energy, you show up better for your family. When you're strong and confident, you're more effective at work. When you feel good in your body, you're more present in relationships. Taking care of yourself doesn't take away from others, it's what allows you to give more.Main Takeaways:5 high-ROI interventions that actually move the needle for personalized healthHow to separate evidence-based health optimization from expensive wellness theaterInvesting in your health isn't selfish, it's foundational for showing up for othersEpisode Mentioned:How Performance Bloodwork Reveals What's Really Blocking Your Fat Loss (Constraint Theory)Timestamps:0:00 - The personal spending paradox 5:13 - The privilege narrative 8:03 - Wellness "theater" vs. what works 11:50 - What personalized health actually means 17:23 - The real cost of prevention vs. treatment 22:22 - Permission to invest in yourself 23:37 - What is the Fishbone Diagram? 28:34 - 5 high-ROI health interventions 41:03 - Addressing the "selfish investment" mindset 44:29 - Accessibility doesn't mean compromiseSupport the show

Book your Performance Bloodwork Analysis at witsandweights.com/bloodwork to identify your biggest constraints and get a personalized plan based on your hormone levels and metabolic markers. Podcast listeners get 20% off with code VITALITY20.Get 20% off Cozy Earth temperature-cooling sheets (with code WITSANDWEIGHTS) at witsandweights.com/cozyearth--Are you gaining belly fat with age and frustrated that restricting calories and ab exercises aren't working any more (if they ever did)?Discover the 7 root causes of midlife belly fat, most having nothing to do with what you're eating or how you're training. Understanding these physiological mechanisms helps create targeted solutions that address the real reasons fat is being stored around your midsection rather than simply doing more of the same.Main Takeaways:Root cause #1 tells your body to store fat centrally, even in a calorie deficitRoot cause #2 disrupts hunger hormones and directly raises insulin resistanceRoot cause #3 shifts fat distribution to the abdomen with ageRoot cause #4 promotes belly fat storage, especially liver and visceral fatRoot cause #5 suppresses fat-burning enzymes independent of exerciseRoot cause #6 slows metabolism and favors central fat storageRoot cause #7 suppresses fat oxidation while raising cortisol and lowering testosteroneEpisode Resources:Get 20% off Cozy Earth bamboo-derived sheets (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS) at witsandweights.com/cozyearthGet 20% off a Performance Bloodwork Analysis (use code VITALITY20) at witsandweights.com/bloodworkTimestamps:0:00 - Why you gain more belly fat with age 5:06 - The 7 root causes 41:13 - Why belly fat responds fastest when you fix the right things 42:17 - How to get deeper answers about the 7 root causesSupport the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, balance hormones, and enjoy life? ⁠⁠⁠Join Physique University and get a FREE custom nutrition plan using code FREEPLAN. Go to witsandweights.com/physique—Think you're too old to transform your body? Brian Kopka proves otherwise.At 46, Brian, a medical professional and former athlete, was stuck in the low-carb trap, feeling drained and frustrated. Six months later, he's stronger, leaner, and more energized than ever. Brian joins me today to share how reintroducing carbs supercharged his workouts, why logging every rep reignited progress, and how coaching gave him the push he didn't know he needed. We also talk openly about the struggles men rarely admit: scale obsession, restrictive eating, and the mental toll of chasing fitness alone.Today, you'll learn all about:3:07 - Why Brian hired a coach6:09 - Tracking workouts and progressive overload8:08 - How carbs transformed performance15:12 - Using data to cut through fitness myths18:43 - The truth about aging and decline25:00 - Coaching as an accelerator for growthEpisode resources:Brian's email: mdkicker17 [at] yahoo.comSupport the show

Get your Performance Bloodwork Analysis - Use code VITALITY20 for 20% off and discover what's really constraining your progress at witsandweights.com/bloodwork--Stop guessing what's holding back your metabolism, fat loss, or muscle gains.Learn how to use performance bloodwork analysis to identify your body's biggest constraint and fix it using the engineering principle of Constraint Theory.Main Takeaways:Your body is an engineering system limited by its weakest linkPerformance bloodwork uses optimal ranges (not just "normal" disease-prevention ranges) to identify constraintsPattern recognition reveals hidden issues that standard bloodwork misses (like being both inflamed and dehydrated)Max impact interventions can improve 5-7 biomarkers at once instead of chasing individual symptomsThe most efficient improvement comes from using a feedback loop to identify your constraintsEpisode Resources:Performance Bloodwork Analysis - Code VITALITY20 for 20% off at witsandweights.com/bloodworkTimestamps:0:00 - The hidden constraint blocking your progress 2:08 - Introduction to Performance Bloodwork Analysis 2:55 - Your body as an engineering system (Constraint Theory) 7:25 - Performance vs. "normal" lab ranges 11:06 - Pattern recognition and hidden constraints missed by standard bloodwork 13:25 - How Performance Bloodwork Analysis works 16:53 - Max impact interventions and the engineering feedback loop 20:31 - Real-world application examples (fat loss, muscle growth, recovery) 29:06 - Why most people chase symptoms in circles 31:42 - Your body is a system to be optimized, not a mysterySupport the show

Get Cozy Earth temperature-cooling sheets and use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for 20% off: witsandweights.com/cozyearth--Tracking every calorie, hitting your workouts consistently, staying in that deficit... but the scale isn't budging? Your energy is tanking and you're obsessing about food despite all your effort?This ONE thing is the often-overlooked catalyst that determines whether you can lose fat efficiently with good energy and minimal cravings, or find yourself stuck in a miserable cycle of extremely low calories and poor results.It's... recovery!Rest and recovery acts as your body's operating system, controlling whether you can lose fat eating plenty of calories with good energy, or get stuck at very low calories feeling miserable with terrible biofeedback.Main Takeaways:Recovery determines how much you can eat while still losing fat consistently by supporting higher energy expenditureSleep restriction can reduce fat loss by 55% compared to adequate sleep in the same caloric deficitChronic stress elevates cortisol, promoting visceral fat storage and water retention that masks progressPoor recovery creates a downward spiral: decreased performance → lower calorie burn → harsher deficits → worse recoveryStrategic recovery practices support higher NEAT, better training performance, and optimal metabolic functionEpisode Resources:Adaptive Cardio Workshop Replay at live.witsandweights.com/replaySubmit a question for the podcast (and get a personal reply plus a shoutout). Just go to witsandweights.com/questionTimestamps:0:00 - Why your deficit isn't working 3:29 - Why traditional weight loss approaches fail 7:41 - The master controller of fat loss efficiency 11:53 - The #1 saboteur of fat loss even in a reasonable deficit 16:04 - Recovery-performance feedback loop 19:33 - Autonomic nervous system and measurable recovery markers 22:29 - Metabolic adaptation and why recovery acts as a buffer 23:45 - How recovery creates an upward spiral 26:42 - Recovery is NOT the opposite of intensitySupport the show

If you could design the perfect fitness app, what would it do? Let me know at witsandweights.com/question--What if a fitness app could actually think like a human coach?Not just track your activities, but understand them, analyze them, and make intelligent adjustments in real-time?That's exactly what I'm designing: an AI-driven fitness coach in your pocket built on the Wits & Weights philosophy of personalized, sustainable body recomposition, built on sound principles of evidence, physique engineering, and experience.It will adapt dynamically to your training, nutrition, lifestyle, and biofeedback as you take action and make progress. It will motivate you and provide accountability. It will "close the loop" between what you do and the results you're seeing.The tentative launch timeline is this November 2025!And I need your help.What would the PERFECT fitness app do?I want to hear YOUR ideas!Go to witsandweights.com/question and let me know. Everyone who submits a question will be added to a special list and get a bonus when the app launches.Support the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get a FREE custom nutrition plan using this special link.—Can you really lose 340 pounds without surgery? What if the secret isn't dieting harder, but thinking differently?I am joined by Jamie Selzler, who completely transformed his body and life using three tools: GLP-1 medication, walking, and lifting weights, and four simple rules that kept him consistent when motivation ran out. Jamie reveals how he went from struggling to walk 20 feet to seeking out movement every day, why food noise nearly controlled his life, and how self-respect changed everything. Whether you want to lose 20 pounds or 200, Jamie's story proves it can be done without extremes.Today, you'll learn all about:3:06 – From avoiding movement to seeking it6:07 – Facing mortality and fear of dying young10:15 – Confidence versus true self-respect14:25 – Keeping promises to yourself daily18:03 – Food noise, GLP-1s, and relief29:47 – Loose skin, body comp, and lifting40:34 – Jamie's four rules for sustainability59:01 – Why lasting change takes yearsEpisode resources:Website: jamieselzler.com Instagram: @jselzler Facebook Group: Jamie's Wellness CircleTiktok: @jamselz Youtube: @jselzler Support the show

Try my favorite sheets from Cozy Earth and get 20% off with code WITSANDWEIGHTS. Cozy Earth sheets are made with viscose from bamboo that wicks away heat and sweat to keep you cooler for deeper sleep and better recovery. Go to witsandweights.com/cozyearth--Sleep isn't just about feeling rested. It's a foundation that amplifies everything else you're doing for your physique goals, from optimizing fat loss and recovery to enhancing cognitive performance.Learn 3 system-level sleep fixes that address root causes instead of just symptoms for deeper, more restful sleep and recovery.Episode Resources:Get Cozy Earth temperature-regulating sheets (20% with code WITSANDWEIGHTS) at witsandweights.com/cozyearthDownload the Better Sleep, Better Body GuideTimestamps:0:00 - Why is sleep so important for fat loss, muscle gain, and recovery?3:37 - Sleep fix #1 (training schedule) 7:48 - Sleep fix #2 (body temperature) 12:04 - Sleep fix #3 (weekends) 14:56 - 2 bonus sleep hacksSupport the show

Join the Adaptive Cardio Workshop tomorrow (Tuesday, September 16) at 12 PM Eastern for only $27 (replay included). Get Philip's complete system for losing fat while personalizing your "minimum effective" cardio, plus the replay, 8 workout programs, and a custom 6-month nutrition plan. Register at live.witsandweights.com--If you've been doing hours of cardio every week expecting fat loss results, but you're either not seeing changes, feeling exhausted, or watching your strength training suffer, this episode will transform your approach.What if there was a smarter, more efficient way to incorporate movement that actually supports fat loss, preserves muscle, and enhances longevity?That's exactly what the Adaptive Cardio Pyramid delivers – a 3-layer framework that prioritizes what truly works while eliminating what doesn't. It tells you exactly how much movement you need for fat loss, muscle growth, and longevity without wasting time.Main Takeaways:Why "cardio only" underperform by 20-50% and the 3 big cardio mythsThe Adaptive Cardio Pyramid to "layer" your cardio in a sustainable (and enjoyable) wayThe 4 common implementation mistakes that cause people to burn outPractical tips to start building your pyramid from the bottom upEpisode Resources:The Adaptive Cardio Workshop - Tuesday, September 16, 12 PM Eastern. Grab your spot at live.witsandweights.comRelated Episode: 7 Benefits of Sprinting to Lose Fat (And Why It Beats Cardio, Especially for Lifters!) | Ep 293Timestamps:0:00 - The 3 biggest cardio myths 10:10 - The Adaptive Cardio Pyramid framework 22:23 - The science behind each layer 25:32 - Common mistakes when "doing cardio" 27:22 - Tips to implement the pyramid for fat loss and recoverySupport the show

Register for the Adaptive Cardio Workshop this Tuesday, September 16th at 12pm Eastern (replay included) at live.witsandweights.com--Confused about cardio?Tired of wasting hours on exercise that does nothing for fat loss?This episode introduces a brand new concept called adaptive cardio, where you use the minimum effective dose to maximize fat loss, muscle, and longevity. Ready to stop wasting time? Join the Adaptive Cardio Workshop this Tuesday, September 16th at 12pm Eastern (replay + bonuses included).Get the complete Adaptive Cardio Pyramid (and guide), baseline assessment tools, personalized planning framework, a custom 6-month fat loss plan, and a full month in Wits & Weights Physique University. Register at live.witsandweights.comSupport the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get a FREE custom nutrition plan using this special link.—Lost weight only to gain it back? Tired of quick-fix diets that leave you weaker, not stronger? What if real success has nothing to do with the scale?Dr. Mikki Williden, a registered nutritionist, researcher, and host of the Mikkipedia Podcast, joins me, and we break down why most people are chasing the wrong metrics. We discuss why weight loss and lasting transformation are completely different skill sets, and how to develop the competencies that actually keep the results you've worked for. This conversation will change the way you measure progress and help you build not just a smaller body, but a stronger, healthier, and more capable one.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro4:06 – Why weight loss isn't the real goal7:44 – The danger of regaining weight11:18 – Weight loss as a learned skill14:47 – Meal prep and planning as foundation18:53 – Building mindset through daily input22:08 – Shifting identity to strength and health40:24 – The truth about rapid fat loss47:36 – Why maintenance is not a free-for-all57:35 – Flexibility, sustainability, and final takeawaysEpisode resources:Mikkipedia PodcastWebsite: mikkiwilliden.com Instagram: @mikkiwilliden Facebook: @mikkiwillidennutrition X: @MikkiWilliden Support the show

Join Wits & Weights Physique University for unlimited access to evidence-based training templates, our "Lifting Lessons" course, and a free custom nutrition plan when you use this special link: https://bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Are you sore after workouts... and does this even matter?Learn why DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is actually a terrible indicator of workout effectiveness, what it really tells you about your training, and the performance metrics you should track instead to know if you're making real progress toward your physique goals.This episode answers a question from a Wits & Weights Physique University member about whether soreness indicates workout quality and how to measure progress effectively.Main Takeaways:Soreness indicates novelty and adaptation to new stimuli, not workout effectiveness or muscle growthYou can get sore from ineffective activitiesExperienced lifters get less sore over time while still making gainsTrack much more targeted metrics of performance and progress instead of how sore you areHowever, soreness can be used to measure recoveryTimestamps:0:00 - Does pain equal progress? 2:57 - What is DOMS? 5:27 - Why soreness doesn't equal progress 8:51 - The repeated bout effect 10:53 - What soreness tells you about training 12:09 - When soreness becomes counterproductive 14:10 - Performance metrics that matter 17:20 - Recovery strategies for managing soreness 21:57 - From pain-focused to performance-focusedSupport the show

Download my favorite nutrition app (use code WITSANDWEIGHTS for a FREE 2 week trial): https://bit.ly/philipmacrofactor--Food logging doesn't have to be tedious or time-consuming when you use the right tools and strategies.I'm revealing 7 of my favorite hacks to transform tracking from a daily struggle into a seamless 3-minute habit (cutting your time by 80%) while making your nutrition data more useful for reaching your goals.Episode Resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (download from your phone's app store)Try our new 2-minute Metabolic Quiz to find out what's stalling your metabolism... and get a personalized roadmap to sustainable fat lossJoin Physique University for access to my Meal Planning Advisor GPT; this special link includes a free custom nutrition plan when you join: https://bit.ly/wwpu-free-planTimestamps:0:00 - The food logging friction problem 2:36 - MacroFactor vs. other apps 5:20 - Hack #1: Copy/paste 6:51 - Hack #2: Recipes from log 8:06 - Hack #3: Biggest contributors 9:20 - Hack #4: Pre-logging and planning 12:16 - Hack #5: Logging the "main" ingredients only 14:32 - Hack #6: Label scanning vs. barcodes 15:49 - Hack #7: Macro/micro trends 17:51 - Bonus Hack #1 19:19 - Bonus Hack #2Support the show

Register for the Live Q&A with Zora on September 23, only in Physique U. Use this special link to join and get a free 6-month transformation plan: https://bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Could menopause be closer than you think? What if it's already starting in your 30s without you knowing?I bring on gerontologist and biohacker Zora Benhamou, host of Hack My Age, to reveal the hidden hormonal shifts most women miss. Zora shares why progesterone quietly dips in your mid-30s, how strength and mobility become your best defense, and why baseline lab tests are game-changers before symptoms kick in. We also talk about practical biohacks that help you build energy, confidence, and resilience now and for decades to come. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, or already approaching perimenopause, this conversation will show you how to prepare early so you don't just get through menopause, you thrive.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro1:03 – Meet expert guest Zora Benhamou3:08 – Why most women aren't informed5:11 – Common myths about modern menopause7:42 – Hormone timeline across the decades10:13 – Early signs of progesterone decline12:30 – Labs every woman should consider24:32 – Lifting weights for hormone support33:39 – Biohacks for your 20s and 30s42:06 – Flexibility, mobility, and healthy aging49:18 – Blood sugar hacks that workEpisode resources:Website: hackmyage.com Facebook: @HackMyAge Instagram: @HackMyAgeYoutube: @hackmyage Support the show

Get your free Progressive Overload Guide to apply these principles to improve your training: witsandweights.com/free--Ed Cohn, nicknamed the "Mozart of Strength," set 71 world records in powerlifting and became the lightest man to total over 2,400 pounds through his mastery of progressive overload and passion-driven consistency.His approach contrasts sharply with today's overcomplicated fitness culture, proving that simplicity and fundamentals still build champions.Ed is still considered the greatest powerlifter of all time, so what can we as modern lifters learn from his timeless approach to building strength?Learn how Ed went from a bullied 155-pound teenager training in his basement to becoming the lightest man to total over 2,400 pounds, and why his simple, passion-driven methods still outperform today's complicated training programs.Main Takeaways:Ed Coan set 71 world records using 3 simple principlesHis 1991 total of 2,402 pounds at 218 bodyweight represented a 14.5% improvement over previous world recordsModern fitness culture has more information than ever but less wisdomPassion endures where motivation failsTrue champions elevate others instead of just dominating themPrevious Lifting Legend Episodes:5 Rules of Ronnie Coleman, King of Bodybuilding (Lifting Legends #1) | Ep 353Timestamps:0:00 - Why Ed Coan is still the GOAT of powerlifting 2:22 - From bullied kid to basement training legend 3:26 - The systematic approach that built a champion 5:17 - 71 world records and seemingly impossible strength-to-weight ratio 10:27 - Simple principles vs. complicated programming 13:05 - The human behind the machine 16:24 - Passion vs. motivation and overcoming setbacks 20:00 - Ed's legacySupport the show

Join Physique University to get a personalized nutrition plan to look and feel better and stop guessing about your calorie needs: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Why do some people thrive on far fewer calories than others (who might be miserable eating at that level)?When we talk about whether 800 calories a day is "unsafe," we're asking the wrong question. After all, your size, training, activity level, and energy needs are unique to you and can vary widely among the population.Learn why there's no universal unsafe calorie number, how to determine your own metabolic limits using biofeedback, and the critical trade-offs between aggressive deficits and sustainability. Main Takeaways:There's no universal "unsafe" calorie numberMetabolic adaptation is real but reversible, not permanent "damage"Use biofeedback (energy, sleep, strength, mood) as your personalized guide rather than arbitrary rulesThe trade-offs between speed, sustainability, and metabolic preservation require intentionalityEpisode Resources:Wits & Weights Facebook Community - Connect with others who understand nutrition isn't about universal rulesTimestamps:0:50 - The obsession with 800, 1200, and 1500 calories 5:18 - The reality of individual energy needs 8:50 - Very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) in clinical settings 10:30 - The Optavia problem 16:14 - Metabolic adaptation vs "metabolic damage" 19:28 - Speed vs. sustainability vs. metabolism 20:44 - Using biofeedback as your personalized compass 24:23 - The non-negotiables 25:29 - Context vs. absolutesSupport the show

Want to learn more about starting, managing, or transitioning off GLP-1 medications? Join Physique U to attend this Tuesday's live Q&A with GLP-1 expert Justin Silver (and get the replay plus a free custom nutrition plan): bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Are GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro stealing your hard-earned muscle?The short answer is no, but the reality is more nuanced than many realize.Learn why people experience muscle loss while taking weight loss medications. Weight loss medications can be incredible tools when used properly, but like any tool, they work best when combined with fundamental lifestyle strategies that optimize body composition.Support the show

Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? ⁠⁠⁠Join the new Physique University for just $27/month⁠⁠⁠ and get your custom nutrition plan FREE (limited time).—Can your smartphone really rival a $100,000 DEXA scan? What if the same device you use to scroll Instagram could also reveal your body fat percentage, fat distribution, and even your HRV?I sit down with Jason Moore, founder and CEO of Spren, a company turning your phone into a precision biometric tool. We talk about how Spren compares to gold-standard lab equipment, why body composition tells you more than scale weight ever could, and why tracking trends is often more important than chasing perfect numbers. This conversation will show you how technology can bring lab-grade insights straight to your pocket.Today, you'll learn all about:0:00 – Intro2:36 – Why body composition matters6:56 – How a phone measures fat10:55 – Accuracy versus precision explained14:38 – Lean mass and muscle changes20:15 – Why fat distribution is key29:56 – Apple versus pear body shapes33:20 – How often should you measure40:15 – Using your phone for HRV45:34 – Predicting VO₂ max with data48:32 – Turning numbers into outcomesEpisode resources:Website: spren.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/thehumanjason Instagram: @thehumanjason Support the show

Get your FFMI calculated automatically with the Physique & Biofeedback Tracker in Physique University to track your actual muscle development over time and understand exactly what phase of training you should focus on next. This special link also gets you a FREE custom nutrition plan:bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan--Is your strength training actually building muscle?Scale weight fluctuates, body fat measurements are inconsistent, and progress photos depend on lighting and angles.There's one metric that cuts through all this noise:Fat-Free Mass Index (FFMI)It shows your actual muscle development regardless of whether you're carrying extra fat or feeling bloated, and once you understand yours, it changes everything about setting goals and how to focus your training.Most lifters have never heard of FFMI. Unlike body weight or even body fat percentage, FFMI isolates your actual muscular development from everything else, giving you clarity about your progress that no other measurement can.Main Takeaways:FFMI measures your muscularity independent of body fat percentageTwo people with the same training experience can have vastly different FFMI numbers, requiring completely different approachesBuilding muscle takes years, while losing fat takes months, so you need a more precise way to track thisYour FFMI determines whether you should prioritize muscle building or fat loss (vs. your feelings or the mirror)Episode Resources:Chef's Foundry non-toxic ceramic cookware (50% off): witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryBody Recomp Workshop replay and bonuses at live.witsandweights.com (includes free custom nutrition plan)Timestamps:0:00 - What is FFMI and why it's a game changer 5:06 - 2 scenarios that reveal everything about your training focus 8:16 - FFMI values explained (what your number actually means) 11:15 - How FFMI determines whether you should cut vs. bulk 17:12 - Natural vs. enhanced FFMI limit 19:45 - Why low FFMI means muscle building is your priority 22:14 - How the fitness industry gets muscle vs. fat loss backward 25:29 - Tracking FFMI over time to validate objective progress 27:03 - Muscle development vs. body compositionSupport the show

Build muscle and lose fat (no dieting or bulking) with the 90-Day Body Recomp Workshop replay + bonuses (90-day week-by-week plan, custom nutrition plan, and training programs for 3, 4, and 5 days per week):live.witsandweights.com--You've been told that belly fat gain during midlife is inevitable... just part of aging and declining hormones that you have to accept.Recent research from the landmark SWAN study that followed 308 women for 12 years reveals the truth: "menopause belly" isn't random aging.It's a specific, predictable hormonal reshaping of where your body stores fat that begins 3 years before menopause and can be prevented and reversed.Discover the exact timing windows when intervention works best, why some women don't experience this shift at all, and the science-backed strategies that can help you take control of your body composition during this transition... no matter where you are in the process.Main Takeaways:Menopause belly is a measurable shift from protective fat storage (hips/thighs) to dangerous visceral fat around organs (not just general weight gain)Fat redistribution accelerates dramatically during the menopause transition but begins up to 3 years earlierYou can prevent and reverse this fat redistributionEpisode Resources:90-Day Body Recomp Workshop with replay and bonuses: live.witsandweights.comChef's Foundry non-toxic ceramic cookware (50% off): witsandweights.com/chefsfoundryTimestamps:0:00 - The research on menopause belly fat 5:41 - Visceral vs. android vs. gynoid fat patterns 7:50 - When fat redistribution actually begins 9:33 - Biological mechanisms 12:59 - Individual differences 14:40 - 5 ways to reverse menopause belly fat 24:23 - Why this research is empowering for all womenSupport the show