Podcasts about barbell logic

Are you training nearly every day—strength, cardio, HIIT—and still not seeing the results you want? In this episode of Beast Over Burden, strength coaches Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson tackle a common question: Are you progressing, or just working hard? They break down the sneaky signs of overtraining, the truth about cardio intensity, and how recovery—not more effort—is often the bottleneck to strength, muscle, and long-term health.

Still searching for the perfect program to fix your fitness? In this episode of Beast Over Burden, strength coaches Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson expose why the “one right plan” mindset is keeping lifters stuck. They break down how perfectionism, rigid programming, and unrealistic expectations sabotage long-term progress—and share smarter, more sustainable ways to train for strength, health, and life. Whether you're burned out, frustrated, or just tired of starting over, this episode will help you trade pressure for progress.

This episode tackles overcoming the 3 big training pitfalls that silently sabotage lifters: mindless snacking, all-or-nothing thinking, and poor boundaries. Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson break it down with practical tips, real-life stories, and strategies that actually work for strength, longevity, and real-life training.

Struggling to stay consistent with strength training? Feel like you're always starting over? In this episode, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson deliver a realistic guide to long-term strength—not hype, not hacks—just what actually works for lasting progress, muscle, and freedom.

While "diet gurus" lean on rigid rules and food lists, great strength coaches talk about stress, recovery, and adaptation. In today's episode Barbell Logic Coach, Andrew Jackson, shares real, practical advice for getting unstuck, and unpacks why rigid approaches to strength will not work for most people. Whether you train like a pro or just feel stuck, there's something in this for you!Barbell Logic: barbell-logic.com/strongnotstarving Important: the Barbell Logic forms do ask about weight and measurements, but you can choose to leave those sections blank.Andrew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewbarbender?igsh=MXg4dXlrN3RzYml2bA==Book a Call with Marcus Here! https://form.jotform.com/240493269367062 Free weekly Strong Not Starving tips and insights ⬇️⬇️⬇️ https://www.strongnotstarving.com/snsweeklytipsStrong Not Starving Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongnotstarving?igsh=MTBpbnVna2Nyd3hnMA==Strong Not Starving Youtube: https://youtube.com/@strongnotstarving?si=zzmTveIdGUD0omuMWebsite: www.strongnotstarving.com

Life's messy—but your strength doesn't have to be. In this episode of Beast Over Burden, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson dive into how to stay strong when life throws curveballs. From missed workouts to surprise illnesses, chaotic travel, or just busy seasons, they reveal how to adapt your training, stay consistent, and keep building strength—without falling into the all-or-nothing trap.

In this episode of Beast Over Burden, Andrew Jackson and Niki Sims break down the four pillars of building strength and muscle, giving lifters a principle-based framework to guide their training decisions. Whether you're trying to gain size, improve performance, or stay consistent as life gets busier, these pillars—simplicity, specificity, appropriate stress, and minimum effective dose—help you filter the noise and focus on what actually works. With practical examples, coaching wisdom, and real-world insight, this episode equips you to stop program-hopping and start progressing with confidence. 1. Simple, Hard, Effective: The Core Filter for Every Lifters' Program The first pillar of building strength and muscle focuses on the triad of simple, hard, and effective training. Rather than overwhelming yourself with complex programming or unnecessary movements, choose exercises that train multiple muscle groups efficiently—like squats, deadlifts, and presses. Niki and Andrew emphasize that training should challenge your current capacity (hard), remain within reach (doable), and be directed toward clear outcomes (effective). Complexity has a place, but only when simplicity stops working. This pillar helps lifters and coaches cut through the noise and focus on doing what works—consistently. 2. The SAID Principle: Train Specifically for What You Want The second pillar is the Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands (SAID) principle. Simply put: your body adapts to what you repeatedly ask it to do. If you want bigger glutes, you need to train your glutes. If you want to throw a baseball harder, you need to train in a way that supports that exact skill or adaptation. Andrew highlights the danger of false specificity—like balancing on a BOSU ball while lifting weights—as a distraction from actual progress. Niki reminds us that trying to chase too many goals at once leads to ineffective outcomes. The SAID principle reinforces that clarity in goals should drive clarity in your training choices. 3. Minimum Effective Dose (MED): The Key to Sustainable Progress The third pillar, minimum effective dose, is about finding the least amount of stress needed to cause a positive adaptation—then riding that wave as long as it lasts. It's the opposite of “go hard or go home,” and it's a powerful strategy for lifters who want to keep progressing over months and years. Andrew reflects on how MED revolutionized his coaching by removing the pressure to overhaul programs with every stall. Niki shares how MED helps lifters avoid burnout and build confidence with small, measurable wins. This approach gives you control over your training trajectory and allows for smarter adjustments. 4. Informed Trade-Offs: Training Within Life's Constraints The fourth pillar of building strength and muscle is about making informed trade-offs within the constraints of your real life—your time, energy, equipment, money, and motivation. This is where the concept of physical freedom shines: the ability to pursue the goals that matter most to you without being enslaved by a rigid program. Andrew and Niki highlight how strength training can (and should) evolve to fit different seasons of life. Sometimes your choices are between good and better, like skiing vs. a competition; other times it's about doing what you can with limited bandwidth. When you understand your constraints and make strategic decisions, you gain the freedom to keep training and making progress—on your terms. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

On this episode of Beast Over Burden, Niki and Andrew break down what it means to ditch the PR obsession and rethink your entire approach to lifting. If you've ever felt burned out chasing endless personal records, this is your permission slip to step off the hamster wheel and build a system that actually works. You'll learn how to structure your training week, hit every major muscle group with efficiency, and understand the role recovery plays in long-term growth. Whether you're a seasoned lifter or still finding your groove, this episode delivers the practical mindset shift you need to stay strong for life. Ditch the PR Obsession: Why SMART Goals Alone Don't Work The central theme of this episode — ditch the PR obsession — starts with a mindset shift. Chasing PRs feels great until they slow down, or stop altogether. Then what? Andrew shares how major goal accomplishments often left him feeling empty, while Nikki reflects on the outdated advice she used to give: "just add weight to the bar." The truth is, progress isn't linear, and it's not always measurable by a new number on the bar. This is where systems thinking comes in — the shift from an all-or-nothing focus on outcomes to valuing consistency, execution, and adaptability in training. Lifters who make this shift find joy and freedom in the process itself. Build a Week That Works: Training 3–4 Days for Full-Body Strength Nikki and Andrew lay out a sustainable weekly training template that any lifter can follow. Rather than rigid programming, they present a flexible "menu" of slots — squats, presses, pulls — you can mix and match across 3–4 days per week. The focus is on efficiency and simplicity: train your knees, hips, and shoulders; hit your arms and back with smart accessories; keep sessions manageable so they can be repeated and adapted. By using this approach, lifters can ditch the PR obsession and stay in the game long-term. Progress comes not from perfect programs, but from consistent effort over time. Smart Volume, Real Intensity: How Much Work Is Enough? Volume isn't just about doing more — it's about doing enough of the right kind of work. Andrew explains how 9–20 hard sets per muscle group per week, at 1–3 reps from failure, forms the foundation of meaningful progress. They also highlight ideal rep ranges for hypertrophy (4–12), the value of variety in set structure (like EMOMs), and why effort matters more than chasing “optimal.” This perspective helps you create a training plan that isn't just science-based — it's sustainable. When you know how to push hard and when to hold back, it becomes easier to keep going — and keep growing. Accessory Work Isn't Optional (Especially for Your Arms) Ever feel like your upper body is lagging behind? You're not alone. Compound lifts are powerful, but they often fail to fully stimulate smaller muscle groups — especially biceps and triceps. The solution: don't neglect accessories. Chin-ups, rows, curls, and triceps work can accelerate progress in your pressing movements and round out your physique. If your gains have stalled or you feel unbalanced, accessory work might be the piece you're missing. It's not fluff — it's fuel for long-term development. Recovery: The Most Underrated Lifting Skill Recovery isn't sexy, but it's absolutely essential. Nikki and Andrew talk about what it really looks like to manage stress, adapt, and train consistently without burning out. Too many lifters equate doing more with doing better — but real growth comes from doing enough, and then recovering. Sleep, food, and rest days are the foundation. You don't need ice baths or gadgets (unless you want them). You need time, patience, and permission to ditch the PR obsession once and for all. This isn't about training less — it's about training smarter so you can do more, for longer, and with fewer setbacks. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Does your calendar align with what you say matters most? Kevin sits down with Ryan Matt Reynolds, to talk about the impact of living in a constant state of urgency. He emphasizes the importance of identifying core values and intentionally aligning daily actions with those values. The conversation also covers the voluntary hardship of choosing challenging, growth-oriented tasks to build resilience for when things go wrong (and they will). They also discuss the practice of delegation and the difference between fleeting happiness and long-term joy. Listen For 00:00 Introduction 01:59 Meet Ryan Matt Reynolds 03:30 The journey to writing Undoing Urgency 05:28 Why urgency is a universal issue 06:20 The deeper purpose behind the book 08:53 Why urgency matters to Ryan personally 10:03 The link between urgency and core values 12:05 Lessons learned through failure 13:24 Writing a legacy for future generations 14:07 From “busy” to what really matters 15:06 Hardships are part of life but what kind? 15:28 The concept of voluntary hardship 17:33 Voluntary hardship prepares us for the involuntary 19:29 Practical hardships in leadership and life 20:16 Delegation as a leadership turning point 21:10 Letting go to grow 23:49 Building a leadership team 25:43 Training your team to take ownership 27:19 Moving from technician to CEO 28:00 Joy vs happiness 29:40 Why joy comes from alignment with core values 31:13 Finding joy in the process not the destination 33:12 Teaching our kids and teams about joy 34:49 What Ryan does for fun 35:33 Intentional time for what matters 37:14 Your calendar is a truth teller 38:07 Urgency vs importance 39:16 Book recommendation: Never Enough by Andrew Wilkinson 40:51 Final thoughts on values joy and learning 44:44 Outro and reminder to subscribe Ryan's Story: Ryan Matt Reynolds is the author of Undoing Urgency: Reclaim Your Time for the Things That Matter Most, a strength and conditioning coach, and a former professional strongman. He is the founder, owner, and CEO of Barbell Logic, one of the largest online strength and nutrition coaching companies in the world. With 25 years of experience in his industry, Reynolds' focus is on redefining traditional personal training by creating connections in the online space and increasing access to professional coaches. https://x.com/ReynoldsSTRONG  This Episode is brought to you by... Flexible Leadership is every leader's guide to greater success in a world of increasing complexity and chaos.  Book Recommendations Undoing Urgency: Reclaim Your Time for the Things that Matter Most by Ryan Matt Reynolds The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz Never Enough: From Barista to Billionaire by Andrew Wilkinson Like this? Leadership Productivity Principles with Maura Thomas How to Pay Attention in a Distracted World with Christian Madsbjerg Join Our Community If you want to view our live podcast episodes, hear about new releases, or chat with others who enjoy this podcast join one of our communities below. Join the Facebook Group Join the LinkedIn Group   Leave a Review If you liked this conversation, we'd be thrilled if you'd let others know by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Here's a quick guide for posting a review. Review on Apple: https://remarkablepodcast.com/itunes    Podcast Better! Sign up with Libsyn and get up to 2 months free! Use promo code: RLP  

Training Principles for Lifters 30+: Build Strength, Save Time, Stay Consistent Training can feel overwhelming, especially with so many conflicting voices in the fitness world. In this episode, we break down the key principles of effective, time-efficient strength training to help you build physical freedom, longevity, and resilience—without wasting hours in the gym. Many lifters struggle to balance fitness with the demands of real life. Whether you're in your 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond, training smart is essential to staying strong, capable, and injury-free. This episode lays out the fundamental principles of resistance training, how to maximize results with minimal time, and why strength is about more than just muscle—it's about building a body that supports your long-term health and daily life. If you're looking to train efficiently while maintaining consistency, this episode is for you. The Key to Sustainable Strength Training One of the biggest factors in a successful fitness routine is sustainability. Many people create unrealistic training schedules that don't fit their lifestyle, leading to burnout or inconsistency. Instead of aiming for an unsustainable six-day-per-week program, consider what is truly realistic for your life. For most middle-aged lifters, two to three resistance training sessions per week—totaling around 90 minutes—can be incredibly effective. Aiming for 8,000-10,000 daily steps further supports overall fitness without adding excessive strain. Remember, consistency over time matters more than short bursts of intense training. By focusing on a realistic, sustainable plan, you set yourself up for long-term success rather than short-lived motivation that fades away. The Most Efficient Exercises for Strength & Longevity Not all exercises are created equal. To get the biggest bang for your buck in the gym, prioritize movements that work multiple muscle groups and joints simultaneously. These include: Squats (engage legs, core, and balance) Deadlifts (train posterior chain, grip strength, and overall power) Pressing Motions (like bench press or overhead press for upper body strength) These compound movements build muscle, strengthen connective tissues, and reinforce natural movement patterns essential for daily activities. If time is limited, focusing on these fundamental lifts ensures you're making the most of your gym sessions. Additionally, barbells are a powerful tool due to their scalability, availability, and ability to progressively overload—allowing you to steadily build strength over time. While machines have their place, free-weight movements generally offer more functional benefits for long-term fitness. Making Strength Training a Lifestyle, Not a Burden One of the biggest barriers to consistent training is the feeling that it's a burden. Instead of treating workouts as a chore, approach them as an investment in your future self. Think of training like cooking—just as a good meal balances salt, fat, acid, and heat, an effective program balances strength, mobility, and endurance. It's also important to trust the process. Results don't happen overnight, and progress requires faith in the system. Strength training is about more than aesthetics—it's about preserving function, preventing injuries, and feeling like a beast well into your later years. By establishing core training principles and sticking to them, you can cut through the noise of the fitness world and focus on what truly works for long-term health and physical freedom. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Master nutrition psychology for lifters, building a strong mindset for muscle and meals, and achieving peak performance. Unlock the mental game of nutrition and transform your lifting journey. This episode delves into the critical role of Nutrition Psychology for Lifters, going beyond basic dietary recommendations. We welcome Marcus Kain of Strong Not Starving to explore the mindset shift needed to navigate emotional eating, build resilience, and achieve lasting peace with food. Discover practical strategies to master your mindset, enhance distress tolerance, and cultivate a healthy relationship with nutrition. The Foundation of Nutrition Psychology for Lifters: Beyond the Plate Nutrition Psychology for Lifters goes beyond the simple mechanics of calories and macronutrients; it delves into the complex interplay between the mind, emotions, and food choices. Marcus Caine of Strong Not Starving joins us to shed light on how this field addresses the deeper challenges individuals face with food, moving beyond basic dietary recommendations. A key concept is the "Horse & Rider" metaphor, which illustrates the dynamic between the subconscious and conscious mind. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for lifters, as nutrition decisions are often driven by emotional factors more so than training decisions, leading to lower compliance rates. A critical aspect of Nutrition Psychology for Lifters is recognizing and eliminating unlikely solutions. This involves moving away from unsustainable dietary restrictions and focusing on building essential skills and long-term habits. It's about acknowledging that lasting change isn't about quick fixes but about cultivating a healthy relationship with food. This approach emphasizes that true mastery in nutrition isn't about the absence of difficult feelings but rather about developing the ability to navigate those feelings effectively. Numbing or distracting from emotions, such as through unhealthy food choices, is not a viable long-term strategy. Navigating Emotional Eating and Building Resilience Through Nutrition Psychology for Lifters Advanced emotional regulation is a cornerstone of Nutrition Psychology for Lifters. It involves moving beyond simply numbing or distracting oneself from difficult feelings and instead learning to navigate discomfort without resorting to unhealthy eating patterns. Understanding your "Window of Tolerance" for discomfort is crucial in this process. This awareness helps lifters recognize when food is being used as an emotional escape. Celebratory situations present unique challenges, and Nutrition Psychology for Lifters encourages individuals to be mindful of the diminishing returns of enjoyable food experiences. It's about learning to enjoy moments without losing sight of long-term goals and avoiding the trap of getting swept up in the moment to the point of discomfort. Building distress tolerance is essential for developing resilience in Nutrition Psychology for Lifters. This involves consistent practice and repetition to build the ability to handle discomfort and emotional triggers effectively. It's about finding that balance of letting go and enjoying things while also being aware of when it's time to call it a day. The ability to navigate that point of "I've had enough" without feeling deprived is a skill that takes time to develop, but it's crucial for achieving lasting freedom and trust in your nutritional choices. Practical Strategies and Habit Formation in Nutrition Psychology for Lifters Building trust in oneself through practice is fundamental in Nutrition Psychology for Lifters. This trust comes from consistent action and self-observation, demonstrating the ability to follow through on commitments. Developing novice skills for mindful eating is a vital first step, which includes practicing non-judgmental awareness of thoughts and feelings and removing "good" and "bad" labels from food. Learning to notice and name feelings is also a crucial skill. This involves identifying and acknowledging emotions in real-time and recognizing when distress begins to arise. Nutrition Psychology for Lifters provides practical tools to help individuals learn to tolerate discomfort, avoid emotional spirals, and practice separating emotions from identity. It's about avoiding catastrophizing, urgent decision-making, and cultivating self-compassion. By focusing on these practical strategies and habit formation, lifters can develop a sustainable and healthy relationship with food, ultimately supporting their fitness goals and overall well-being. PS - Save 50% on Your First Month of Online Coaching with code"50off3": https://bit.ly/3DxESOu Connect with our guest Strong Not Starving website Podcast Instagram Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Building a strong nutritional baseline is the key to long-term results. In this episode of Beast Over Burden, we break down the daily habits lifters need to create structure, eliminate setbacks, and stay consistent. Forging Daily Nutritional Habits: Actionable Steps Build a Routine: Establish fixed meal times, eliminate caloric drinks, and cut out mindless snacking. Prioritize Whole Foods: Create a repeatable meal plan that minimizes decision fatigue. Use Habit Stacking: Drink water before meals, prep your gym bag the night before, and link new habits to existing routines. Understand Your Triggers: Identify what leads to unhealthy choices and develop strategies to overcome them. Eliminating Detrimental Habits: Behavioral Shifts Say Goodbye To: Excessive alcohol, added fats, and hidden sugars. Practice Mindful Eating: Pay attention to hunger cues, savor meals, and eliminate distractions while eating. Embrace Cooking & Meal Prep: Control ingredients and develop a deeper connection with your food. Identify Root Causes: Recognize stress eating and social pressures, then create solutions to stay on track. Cultivating Long-Term Habits: Consistency & Tools Fuel Your Enjoyment: Find healthy meals you love and experiment with new recipes. Leverage Accountability: Track your meals, work with a coach, or join a support group. Practice Self-Compassion: Learn from mistakes and get back on track without guilt. Utilize Helpful Tools: Simplify meal prep with an Instant Pot, griddle, immersion blender, and smoker or gas grill. Build a solid nutrition foundation and fuel your performance. #NutritionForLifters #HealthyHabits #BeastOverBurden #FitnessFuel PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Download my free Strength Training for Hormone Health guide to optimize your hormones, boost your metabolism, and maintain muscle mass for life.—Are you worried that lifting heavy will make you "too bulky"? What's holding you back from building muscle as a woman?I'm joined by Nikki Sims, strength coach, and Chief Experience Officer at Barbell Logic, to break down why most women are leaving huge muscle and strength gains on the table and how understanding the science of muscle growth can change your fitness journey.Nikki also shares her journey from skinny to strong, her experience with bulking and cutting phases, and the biggest lessons she's learned from coaching women for over a decade.Today, you'll learn all about:02:09 - Why do many women fear their physical potential?03:58 - The influence of media and beauty standards07:12 - From aesthetics to strength and performance10:49 - Strength training as a gateway to confidence19:11 - Can you be "too strong" or "too muscular"?27:17 - Nikki's personal bulking and cutting experiences32:39 - Gaining weight vs "getting fat"39:31 - How long should you bulk?50:33 - Building muscle even when you can't squat or deadlift56:20 - The surprising mental health benefits of lifting heavy1:06:19 - Why every woman should get a strength coach1:10:00 - OutroEpisode resources:Beast over Burden PodcastInstagram: @barbell_logic Youtube: @BeastOverBurden Get a free coaching consultation with Barbell Logic: barbell-logic.com/experienceSupport the show

  Embarking on a nutritional change is a journey of dedication and effort. But what happens when you're putting in the work and the results seem to lag? This episode dives into the frustrating reality of the nutrition plateau, exploring the gap between expectations and reality, and providing strategies to stay the course. We'll cover how to navigate social challenges, maintain motivation, and ultimately achieve your health goals, even when the immediate rewards are elusive. The Expectation Gap and the Frustration Factor When you decide to make nutritional changes, you often have a vision of rapid transformation. Social media, past experiences, and observing others can create unrealistic expectations. The reality is that change takes time, and the body doesn't always reflect your efforts immediately. This "expectation gap" can lead to significant frustration and disappointment. You might find yourself comparing your results to past attempts or to others' perceived success, leading to feelings of inadequacy. It's crucial to remember that everyone's journey is unique, and progress is not always linear. You may be making the right choices directionally, but visible changes can lag behind the internal work. The frustration can escalate when you're making significant sacrifices, such as giving up favorite foods or navigating social situations, without seeing the desired outcomes. This can lead to thoughts like, "Why even bother?" or "Are these trade-offs worth it?" It's important to recognize that these feelings are normal and to develop strategies for staying motivated. It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you have lost a week of progress if you have one bad meal. Instead of this mindset, try to think of shorter more controlled stints of time, such as one meal at a time, or one day at a time. Navigating Social Challenges and Maintaining Consistency Social events can be a major hurdle when trying to stick to a nutrition plan. Dining out often involves larger portions, less control over ingredients, and the temptation of indulgent foods. It can feel like you're constantly having to skip meals or endure feelings of hunger. Social anxiety can also arise, both before and during events. Anticipating questions about your dietary choices or feeling guilty after indulging can detract from the enjoyment of social gatherings. Having a plan in place, such as bringing sparkling water with lemon or lime, and knowing how to respond to questions about your choices, can help alleviate this anxiety. Telling a person that you respect what your plan is, such as your coach, can help to solidify your resolve. Also, being well fed and hydrated before a social event can help tremendously. It is extremely easy to tinker with your approach, doubt yourself, and change or give up entirely. This is why having a coach is a great way to stay on track. Building Sustainable Habits and Finding Your Support System The key to long-term success is building and reinforcing healthy habits. Focus on small, achievable wins and play with time domains. Instead of focusing on distant goals, celebrate daily or weekly victories. Remember that consistency, not perfection, is the goal. Having a supportive voice of reason can make a world of difference. This could be a coach, a friend, or a family member who understands your goals and provides encouragement. They can help you stay grounded, navigate setbacks, and maintain perspective. Remember that many professionals, even other coaches, have coaches. This is because having someone to hold you accountable is vital. It is important to remember that for women, the monthly cycle can add another layer of difficulty. Be patient with yourself, and adjust your plan as needed. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Learn practical strategies for building baseline nutrition habits that go beyond macro counting, focusing on consistent daily behaviors for sustainable health and lasting results. We dive deep into the behaviors that form the foundation of your nutritional success. Forget the complicated macro calculations for a moment; we're focusing on the daily, repeatable habits that truly make a difference. These are the routines that will empower you to build a reliable nutrition baseline, ensuring you consistently nourish your body and achieve your health goals. It's not about quick fixes or fad diets, but about establishing a sustainable lifestyle. We understand that the initial excitement of starting a new nutrition plan can fade. That's why we're focusing on behaviors that reduce decision fatigue. By creating consistent routines, you'll minimize the mental energy required to make healthy choices. This approach is crucial for long-term success, as it helps you navigate those inevitable moments when willpower is low and hunger strikes. We'll explore practical strategies to help you build these essential habits. Building Consistent, Decision-Free Routines Many people get overwhelmed by the details of weighing and measuring food. While these practices can be helpful, they're not always necessary for building a solid nutrition baseline. What's more important is establishing consistent routines that reduce the number of daily decisions you need to make. This means identifying repeatable behaviors that simplify your approach to food. Think about creating a set meal schedule or preparing a few staple dishes in advance. By having go-to options, you'll eliminate the need to constantly decide what to eat. This consistency is essential for building a reliable nutrition baseline. We'll also discuss how to develop a sense of portion control without obsessively weighing every ingredient. Learning to recognize ballpark amounts can be just as effective and far less stressful. When facing situations with less control, like social gatherings or travel, having a strong foundation of consistent behaviors is key. We'll explore strategies for maintaining your nutrition baseline in these scenarios, ensuring you can confidently make healthy choices even when your routine is disrupted. The goal is to reach a point where you feel confident in your ability to navigate any situation while staying true to your nutritional goals. Practical Food Strategies and Tradeoffs Building a healthy nutrition baseline involves understanding the foods that support your goals. We'll discuss essential food groups, focusing on prioritizing protein and carbohydrates while adjusting fats to suit your needs. Learn how to identify single-ingredient foods that offer flexibility and versatility in your meal planning. For example, a big batch of chicken breasts or ground beef can be used in a variety of ways. We'll also explore the concept of tradeoffs. Understanding that you can enjoy a fattier cut of meat if you reduce fats elsewhere in your diet is crucial for creating a sustainable plan. This flexibility allows you to enjoy your favorite foods while still maintaining a healthy balance. Discover how to incorporate spices, powdered peanut butter, cinnamon, and walnuts into your meals to add flavor and nutritional value. Having a repertoire of repeated, flexible recipes is essential for long-term success. These recipes should be easy to prepare and adaptable to your preferences and nutritional needs. Consider batch cooking or meal prepping to save time and ensure you always have healthy options available. By focusing on simple, single-ingredient foods and mastering a few key recipes, you'll be well on your way to building a strong nutrition baseline. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Strength training is a long term investment!  Just like your 401K, you can't make one deposit or do one workout and get immediate results overnight!  Today we're chatting with Niki Sims of Barbell Logic to help you change your mindset when it comes to strength training for midlife moms and the actual long term benefits you can expect with the tiny habits/deposits you do now!Get a free 7 day trial of the TRAINING FOR LIFE APP! This is habit based fitness training for midlife moms. About Niki:Niki Sims is the Chief Experience Officer at Barbell Logic, overseeing the client and staff experience for the coaching and software services. Niki is passionate about helping people get to know the stronger version of themselves. With over 10 years of barbell coaching and training experience, she knows what it takes to program for life, fine tune form to maximize training stimulus, and provide support to continue to choose strength over weakness. Learn more about experiencing strength instead of enduring weakness. ***HABIT HACKS:-Get a free 7 day trial in the TRAINING FOR LIFE app!-Need 1:1 accountability for your habits?  Schedule a FREE DISCOVERY CALL to find out more!-CHECK OUT THE FREEBIE VAULT!: Access habit tools, self care checklist, ingredient meal tips, free workouts and more! JOIN THE FREE COMMUNITY!LET'S CONNECT:Connect with Emily:@emilynichols22www.emily-nichols.com Get your free 7 day trial in my habit based fitness app, TRAINING FOR LIFE!

Ever feel lost in the sea of nutrition advice? Tired of starting and stopping diets? Ditch the diet! Learn why you need a nutrition baseline and how to build one.  Your nutritional baseline is you secret to sustainable nutrition success. The key to sustainable progress isn't a quick fix, but a solid foundation. In this episode, we're diving into the concept of a nutrition baseline – your personal safe haven of healthy eating habits. The Importance of Your Nutritional Baseline This isn't about restrictive dieting; it's about establishing a consistent, enjoyable way of eating that supports your overall health and well-being. Think of it as your nutritional home base, a place you can always return to when life throws you off track. This episode will equip you with the tools to create your own personalized baseline, so you can finally achieve lasting results. Your nutrition baseline is more than just a meal plan; it's a collection of consistent habits that make healthy eating second nature. It's the set of actions you can always fall back on, providing a sense of stability and direction. This "safe zone" helps you maintain a healthy weight and body composition, not necessarily "shredded" but comfortable and thriving. It's the point where you feel good, energized, and in control of your food choices. This baseline isn't about white-knuckle restriction, but rather about making consistently good choices. It minimizes processed foods, prioritizes whole, nutrient-dense options, and helps you avoid the common pitfalls that derail so many people. Think of it as your personal nutritional reset button. Building Your Nutrition Baseline A well-defined baseline includes a rough meal plan with similar foods for each meal. For example, you might have a go-to breakfast of 4 eggs with healthy carbs. Lunch could be 6-8 ounces of lean meat with veggies and carbs, and dinner might be 10 ounces of lean protein with carbs, fats, and veggies. A typical day might also include snacks like Greek yogurt with blueberries. Flexibility is key – you can add small additions like walnuts to your yogurt or swap out chicken for fish. The core principle is consistency with a foundation of whole, minimally processed foods. The building blocks of your baseline include reliable protein sources like meat, eggs, and yogurt. Healthy carbohydrates like rice, oats, bread (whole grain when possible), and fruit are also essential. Dialing In Your Nutrition Baseline Don't forget plenty of fiber from veggies, legumes, chia seeds, and nuts. Start by focusing on protein intake, aiming for roughly 1 gram per pound of body weight as a general guideline. For individuals who are older or female, a starting point of 12-15 calories per pound of body weight, with approximately 90 grams of protein (+/- 10 grams), can be a good starting point. The remaining calories can be allocated to carbohydrates. Experiment to find whole foods you enjoy, focusing on 3-4 meals per day. A great strategy is to start with protein at each meal and build around it. Visualize your plate: protein in the form of chicken breast, carbs from rice or sweet potatoes, and fiber/veggies from broccoli. Nuts can be added to bump up calories if needed. This approach allows for easy mixing and matching. For example, chicken can be used in various dishes – Mexican, Asian, sandwiches, with rice or in a tortilla. The goal isn't to follow the exact same recipes every day, but rather to have a flexible framework of nutritious foods that you enjoy and can easily adapt to your preferences and schedule. Visualizing your macros can be helpful, but don't get too caught up in precise tracking – consistency with whole foods is the most important factor. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

In this episode of The Health Fix Podcast, Dr. Jannine Krause sits down with Niki Sims to explore why strength training is like a health 401(k)—an investment in your future well-being! With over a decade of experience in barbell coaching, Niki specializes in creating personalized training programs, refining technique, and fostering a supportive environment for women navigating menopause and beyond.

Prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term pleasures is the key to achieving your goals. Fitness can feel good, just adjust your time scale. Feel Good Fitness: Prioritizing Long-Term Fitness over Short-Term Pleasures Are you tired of starting over every Monday? Do you find yourself constantly battling between instant gratification and your long-term fitness goals? You're not alone! In this episode, we're diving deep into the psychology of prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term pleasures, and how to escape the gummy bear trap. We've all been there: the siren call of the donut, the allure of skipping a workout, the "I deserve this" mentality that derails our progress. It's easy to fall into the trap of doing what we want right now, but what happens when those "right now" choices add up? Six months down the line, are you closer to or further from the body and health you truly desire? This episode explores the crucial concept of the time domain in fitness. We often think about our goals in terms of what we want immediately, neglecting the bigger picture. We'll help you dissect your true desires, peeling back the layers of "I want a 6-pack" or "I want to weigh X" to uncover the deeper "I don't wants" – the feelings of bloat, guilt, low energy, and lack of capability that drive your long-term vision. How to Prioritize Long-Term Fitness over Short-Term Pleasures The Gummy Bear Trap: What it is and how it sabotages your fitness goals. We'll explain how focusing on short-term pleasures can lead to long-term dissatisfaction. Identifying Your True "I Wants": It's more than just aesthetics. We'll guide you through a process of discovering the deeper motivations behind your fitness goals – the feelings of health, strength, confidence, and well-being you're truly seeking. Mastering the Time Domain: Learn how to shift your mindset from immediate gratification to long-term vision. We'll explore practical strategies for aligning your actions with your goals. The Power of "Peeling Back": Discover how to analyze your goals and understand the underlying "I don't wants" that are driving them. The MED (Minimum Effective Dose) for Long-Term Success: We'll discuss how you don't need to go to extremes to see results. Identify the key changes that will have the biggest impact on your fitness journey. Honing Your "Feel Good" Skills: Learn to recognize and appreciate the positive feelings associated with healthy behaviors. It's not just about white-knuckle discipline; it's about enjoying the process. The Importance of Self-Awareness: Pay attention to how your body feels after certain actions. Develop a deeper understanding of how your choices impact your well-being. Playing with the Time Domain: Experiment with different approaches and find what works best for you. Fitness is a journey, not a race. Key Takeaways: Prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term pleasures requires a shift in mindset and a deep understanding of your true goals. It's not about deprivation; it's about making conscious choices that align with your vision. Small, consistent changes can lead to significant results over time. Self-awareness and the ability to recognize how you feel are crucial for long-term success. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Welcome to The Sisterhood of Sweat podcast! Today, we have a very special guest joining us - Niki  Sims, a fellow fitness enthusiast and strength coach. Niki has an incredible journey to share, from her early days trying out different sports to finding her passion in powerlifting and CrossFit, and eventually becoming a strength coach at Barbell Logic. Linda, the host of The Sisterhood of Sweat, and Niki dive deep into the importance of building muscle as we age, especially during the transition through menopause. They discuss the link between physical and mental health, and how fitness can build resilience to overcome challenges. You'll hear their perspectives on fostering sustainable training habits, transitioning body image struggles into body empowerment, and the power of community in fitness. This conversation is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and a whole lot of sisterhood. So sit back, get ready to be motivated, and let's dive in! Links:     How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T"  Essential Formulas

Gain physical freedom through nutrition. Sustainable nutrition builds a foundation for health and physical freedom. What is Physical Freedom? Let's first consider financial freedom, a term often discussed. We define financial freedom as the ability to do what you want with your time. You achieve this because you have earned enough time (in the form of money) to be able to do what you want with your time. Physical freedom is the ability to be able to do what you want with your body. You earn this through the discipline of healthy training and nutrition habits over time. You can gain physical freedom through nutrition and exercise habits. You build habits that support your goals. These habits become joyful. You have agency and the ability to influence your life. Things do not just happen to you. Sometimes things are outside your control (injuries and illnesses). Either way, you roll with the punches and control what you can. Physical Freedom Through Nutrition: Body Image & Bad Goals Many of us spend all or most of our lives walking around comparing ourselves to some image or celebrity. For many, that is Bradd Pitt in Fight Club. Andrew actually experience 6-pack abs and extreme leanness in an environment he would never want to recreate, where he was training like crazy, had little freedom and was undereating. Later, Andrew learned how to build sustainable habits that did not require extreme diets. He actually was able to enjoy the process and sustain that level of leanness. He had built habits that supported his goals. The Brad Pitt goal was a false idol. Physical Freedom Through Nutrition: Love the Process Learning to love the process really matters. Both Andrew and Niki have found themselves able to enjoy periods such as the holidays, where they kick back a bit, enjoy more alcohol, more desserts, but do not eat to physical discomfort. Ironically, when Andrew had less healthy habits, he was more anxious about holiday periods, felt he could not enjoy them, but regularly ate until he was physically sick. Approaching these periods with the long-term in mind, no anxiety, and knowing you can enjoy them but that includes enjoying yourself after the meal (not feeling sick) is sustainable and healthy. Achieve physical freedom through nutrition. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Are you interested in weight training but don't know where to begin? Niki Sims is passionate about helping people get to know the stronger version of themselves. With over ten years of barbell coaching and training experience, she knows what it takes to program for life, fine tune form to maximize training stimulus, and provide support to continue to choose strength over weakness. This was a great conversation and I know you'll enjoy it as well.    What you'll hear:   Niki's background and experience as a coach with Barbell Logic (1:50) Her early experience in the fitness space (3:50) Balancing passion and business in coaching (6:34) Her transition to online coaching (11:23) Client communication and accountability (12:57) Specific training methods and her client demographics (13:43) The nutritional component and client engagement (15:29) Overcoming common misconceptions and challenges (24:17) Personal training and injury recovery (33:19) Benefits of natural bodybuilding (36:13) Her progress and personal records with strength training (47:04)   Where to follow Niki:   Barbell Logic Instagram   If you loved this episode and our podcast, please take some time to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, or drop us a comment below!

The Beast over Burden podcast is beginning to come out in series as opposed to weekly. The first series will cover attaining physical freedom through nutrition. Frustrated with extreme diets, yo-yo-dieting, or nothing seeming to work? We'll help you find practical, sustainable nutrition strategies that help you reach your fitness & health goals. Stay tuned! PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Do a diet reboot if you've slipped up and need to get back on track. These tips & tricks help you stop diet derails and help you stay on track. Diet Reboot to Get Back on Track It's January 2nd (or maybe later). You pull the belt across you on the plane, you get into your pants, you look in the mirror…what the fluff!? You may have eaten normally for most of the holiday period. For many people who find themselves gaining weight, it doesn't come from the decisions they're making for lunch on Wednesday, it's the “abnormal” days. Many who fail to lose fat do well on the week days but then overeat far too much on the weekends, negating any caloric deficit they may have created during the week. During the holiday periods or similar times like vacations, “abnormal” days increase, further increasing the caloric surplus. What can you do? Snap back to health by resetting your baseline. Diet Reboot: Snap Back to Health Before you begin addressing the problem, consider your approach. Don't catastrophize. This may be a long habit of unhealthy decisions that you've decided to stop, or you may generally feel pretty good about your nutrition habits and just need a quick course correction. Either way, don't expect to fix this in a couple days. For big changes, you need to think about 6 to 12 months. When it comes to metrics, know yourself. For some, recording your weight each day will drive you crazy. For others, it's useful information that helps inform their decisions without causing overreactions. In terms of approaches, starving yourself is not a good approach. It may be useful, however, to have a short period where you're strict with no alcohol, no added sugar, and focus on having as many single-ingredient foods as possible. This resets your baseline and will, actually, have you feeling better after a couple days. You'll find that the bloat is gone and you come to begin appreciating healthier foods. Weighing and measuring for a period of time may also help. Why? Because it helps prevent a slide into hidden calories (“that's close enough”). It also, if you have not done it, helps inform you of just how many calories peanut butter, whiskey, and cooking oils have. Filling your plate with more veggies really helps too. If your diet has derailed, don't freak out, snap back to health with these strategies. Do a diet reboot! PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

In this transformative episode of the InPowered Life Podcast, Rudi sits down with Matt Reynolds, a dynamic entrepreneur, CEO of Barbell Logic, and author of the highly anticipated book, Undoing Urgency, published by Forbes. Together, they delve into the profound lessons Matt has learned on his journey from a small-town upbringing to building a multi-eight-figure business while staying true to his values.Through his inspiring story, Matt shares the principles that have guided his success, from choosing voluntary hardship to mastering discipline, and creating systems that prioritize what truly matters.Purchase Matt's book, Undoing Urgency, here! https://amzn.to/3PEcw7uKey Takeaways:Voluntary Hardship Builds Resilience: Choosing difficult but purposeful tasks strengthens your ability to face life's challenges with confidence.The Power of Systems: Building Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) early, even before you need them, sets a strong foundation for future growth and scalability.Avoid Drowning in Urgency: Focus on what's truly important by delegating, automating, or eliminating tasks that don't align with your core values.Enjoy the Process: The journey of growth and development is where fulfillment lies, not just the end goal or accolades.Redefine Success: Success isn't in achieving goals; it's in what you do after you achieve them and how you use those lessons to help others.Prioritize Core Values: Identify your core values and build a life and business around them to leave a meaningful legacy.Time Management via Eisenhower Matrix:Eliminate tasks that are neither urgent nor important.Automate/delegate urgent but unimportant tasks.Be efficient with urgent and important tasks.Invest time in non-urgent but important priorities like family, health, and personal growth. Quotes: "Urgent things crowd out the important ones. Undoing urgency is about reclaiming time for what truly matters." - Matt Reynolds "So many people want the change, but they think the same, they do the same, and so they stay the same." - Rudi RiekstinsVisit our website: https://www.rudiriekstins.comFollow along at: https://www.instagram.com/the.inpowered.life.podcast/Stream on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rudiriekstinsMatt Reynold's Links:Website: https://ryanmattreynolds.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reynoldsstrong/?hl=enX: https://x.com/reynoldsstrong?lang=en

If you travel regularly, you will have to continue to strength train as you travel. Learn fitness travel hacks in this ultimate guide to strength training while traveling. Strength Training While Traveling: Why It Matters Why train while traveling? While, in part, it depends on how often you travel, your goals, the length of travel, and how consistent you are outside of travel. For those who are extremely consistent and rarely travel, it might make sense to take the week off. If you travel for business, you need to train. You will feel better if you train. The workout might not feel good, especially to start, but you will feel better afterwards. You might even feel better during the workout (e.g. initial warm ups feel terrible, then the heavier warm ups and work sets move well and feel good). It also helps provide structure to your days, which on vacation can often lack structure. Additionally, it gives you some short amount of you time, and, importantly, healthy you time. Strength Training While Traveling: Fitness Travel Hacks Incorporate your gym seeking into your travel planning. Checkout the hotel gym and nearby gyms. You can often find a serviceable gym that has a guest policy. You might need to call the gym to check the visitor policy. Pack and prioritize some equipment. Belts and other bulky items are not needed. Having a pair of shoes that you can both lift and do cardio with makes sense. You might pack some small things like liquid chalk, straps, or knee sleeves. Plan your workout ahead of time. Intend to do at least something hard – get into that “worth it” zone. Depending on the number of times you will train and decide whether you will do full body and a split. Fewer times means full body makes more sense. Besides that, Niki and Andrew have some general tips and approaches they take: Mentally let go of the weight on the bar AMRAPs supersets (antagonistic or similar) burn out sets drop sets hard exercises that don't require tons of weight (e.g. bulgarian split squats) bend these joints: knees, shoulders, elbows, hips Try out these tips for training while traveling. A couple links for helping you train while traveling can be found here & here. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Learn about helpful home gym equipment. This gear solves common problems or makes your lifting more fun, varied, or effective.  Helpful Strength Equipment for Your Home Gym You need a few items to begin strength training properly, though you can also start exercising today. As you progress and build the habit of strength training (and simultaneously get older) some equipment can help solve common problems you will likely encounter. Some of these items help add variety and make training more fun. Other gear helps deal with common injuries or pain points. Regardless, this list of items can help you build compliance and improve your training. If you use it, it is ultimately an investment in yourself and your health. Accessories for Accessory Work Accessory work can get repetitive if all you have is a barbell. A few pieces of equipment can multiply the potential hypertrophy and accessory work you can program. Adjustable dumbbells allow you to add dumbbell variations and accessory lifts without taking up a ton of space (and saving money compared to a full set of dumbbells). Not only can you perform dumbbell variations of the main lifts, you can also perform more accessory work that you simply cannot perform with barbells (e.g. dumbbell flies or lateral raises). A similar example of helpful strength equipment is a pulley system. This enables lat pull downs as well as using the pulley system for hypertrophy work (triceps, biceps, etc.). The last helpful items that focuses primarily on the upper body is getting a dip attachment to your power rack or an adjustable bench. They allow variation for pressing movements, and you can also perform accessory lifts on the bench. Enabling lower body accessory work comes in handy as you become more advanced, as deadlifts and squats don't only get repetitive but if you face a big injury, you might not be able to perform one or both of these lifts for awhile. Some helpful strength equipment for this area are a reverse hyper, glute ham raise, or leg extension/leg curl attachment. Some of these take up a lot of space, but getting just one of them can provide additional leg stress and make a big difference in your lower body training. Supplying Supplemental Lifts This might be the widest area, as we're talking about different types of barbells and other items that can modify the main lifts. A deadlift bar can really help your deadlift 1RM, as it has a smaller diameter and more whip (which reduces the range of motion). An axle bar for the press or bench press reduces your ability to grip the bar but enables good pressing variants. It is also necessary if you're considering Strong Man training. Getting a slingshot or board attachment can help overload the bench and work on the top portion of your bench. The slingshot can also help if you have shoulder pain. Bands and chains are helpful strength equipment that enables accommodating resistance. The safety squat bar and football bar (and variations of both) not only add supplemental variations to the lifts but can also prevent pain for the shoulders and wrists specifically. Convenience & Climate The last area of helpful strength equipment includes items that add convenience to your lifting or improve the atmosphere of the gym. The monolift attachment allows you to not have to take a step bar or move the bar from the pins to the shoulders on the bench. It provides the most benefit to the most people for the bench press, as many find it reduces or eliminates shoulder pain. Niki also uses it for the RDL. A deadlift jack makes loading and unloading plates easier for any lift that has the barbell on the ground, especially the deadlift. A 1-arm deadlift jack is smaller and more mobile – you can put it in your gym bag. A 2-arm deadlift jack makes more sense if you have a decent amount of space in your home gym or for public gyms. Wrist wraps & lifting straps help with wrist support or grip support for compression or tension grips. Ammonia or smelling salts help bring focus and intensity to big attempts. Clothes help you feel and perform better. Clothes really are helpful strength equipment. A timer or watch can ensure that you don't waste time in the gym between sets and make the rest time consistent. This is especially important at a public gym or if you're a coach, because the lifter isn't paying you to tell them stories. Last but probably not least for most people is something to help with climate control, specifically heating or cooling your gym. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

The holiday season is coming up, and for many of us this is a time where we gain weight: whether we justify an unexpectedly large bulk or simply seem unable to avoid our weight inching up despite our best intentions. Learn some practical methods to achieving your goals and preventing or limiting holiday weight gain (or even enabling holiday weight loss). The holidays present unique challenges: huge meals, home-baked desserts, calorically-dense food items, peer & family pressure, fond memories. We can enjoy the holidays while still moving toward our goals. First, leave room in your food & training journal to assess why you deviated from your plan. This isn't to judge yourself, but to build awareness. Were you hungry? Did you eat because you always eat at a certain time? Did you not want to disappoint someone? Did you mindlessly eat? Or, did you just really want that food item? Approaching holiday meals and time periods with realistic plans. Fasting prior to a meal is likely unrealistic. Eating a protein-rich meal the day of a big meal that will have plenty of fat and carbohydrates, however, makes sense. For the big meals themselves, have a plan to help you prevent or at least limit overeating. For example, fill your first plate with a normal amount of food. This may mean limiting the items you put on your plate. This may mean putting sample-size amounts on your plate. Then, when you're done, wait 15 minutes before getting seconds. For dessert, assess whether you're hungry or not. Take a dessert home if you really want it--you don't have to try every type of pie that meal or that day! Finally, Niki & Gillian discuss the idea of “volume eaters” and “intensity eaters.” Though people may be some combination thereof, volume eaters tend to overeat through large quantities of food, whereas intensity eaters tend to overeat through calorically dense items (eggnog, anyone?). Arm yourselves with the knowledge and tips to better battle the holidays! PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Strong Not Starving Barbel Logic Application HERE (3 Spaces Available!): https://form.jotform.com/220624481844052The Barbell Logic team are doing spectacular work delivering custom strength training programs, because if we're going to invest time and energy in lifting, lets put that time and energy where it's going to count!In today's episode, Niki Sims (Barbell Logic Director and Coach) and I are sharing some of the challenges and setbacks we've experienced surrounding training and exercise, as well as the most important shifts that will help you set you up for the kind of experience and success that can only come from training to get stronger. Free weekly Strong Not Starving tips and insights ⬇️⬇️⬇️ https://www.strongnotstarving.com/snsweeklytipsStrong Not Starving 1-1 Coaching: https://form.jotform.com/240493269367062 Strong Not Starving Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongnotstarving?igsh=MTBpbnVna2Nyd3hnMA==Strong Not Starving Youtube: https://youtube.com/@strongnotstarving?si=zzmTveIdGUD0omuMWebsite: www.strongnotstarving.com

Unleash your physical freedom. Reclaim your body and mind from bad habits, restrictive and narrow goals, and unrealistic expectations. Thank You, Listeners (aka Beasts & Future Beasts) Andrew and Niki are thankful for all that has happened in 2024. Thank you to Stephan, the editor and podcast producer, who is a true expert and professional. You have no idea how much work he does! Thank you to Dan, Paige, Daisy, Nick, Noah, and the whole team at Barbell Logic. We thank Ryan Matt Reynolds as well. But most especially, thank you, listeners. You are beasts (or future beasts) and we could not do this without you. We've got exciting podcasts coming in 2025. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

(Thanks to my bro Matt for pinch-hitting for me on the intro this week, while I've been out sick. - Will)Matt Reynolds, founder and CEO of Barbell Logic, joins The Will Spencer Podcast to discuss his new book, "Undoing Urgency." The central theme of their conversation revolves around the idea that urgency often crowds out the important aspects of life, leading to a diminished quality of existence. Reynolds emphasizes the necessity of identifying core values and prioritizing actions that align with those values, rather than succumbing to the chaos of daily demands. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey, including the challenges and failures he faced, illustrating how these experiences shaped his perspective on strength, health, and leadership. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the importance of intentional living and the pursuit of a meaningful legacy for future generations.Takeaways: Matt Reynolds discusses the importance of identifying core values to prioritize meaningful tasks over the urgent ones. He emphasizes that urgency often crowds out the significant aspects of life, such as family and health. Reynolds shares the lessons learned from personal failures and the necessity of vulnerability in leadership. The conversation highlights that true growth comes from recognizing and overcoming personal struggles. He stresses the importance of maintaining physical health as a means to fulfill one's responsibilities towards family and community. The episode illustrates the interconnectedness of faith, family, and personal well-being for long-term success. CONNECT WITH MATTMatt's WebsiteBuy "Undoing Urgency" from AmazonFollow Matt on TwitterBarbell LogicMENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST"The Hard Thing About Hard Things" - Horowitz

Unleash your physical freedom. Reclaim your body and mind from bad habits, restrictive and narrow goals, and unrealistic expectations. Physical Freedom: Financial Freedom as an Analogy The concept of financial freedom - no longer stressing about finances and not having to trade your time for things you do not wish to do - helps derive useful lessons for health and fitness. Attaining financial freedom requires discipline. One must define and follow through with hard decisions over a long period of time. This, though, is the path to freedom. Don't look for shortcuts. And, even if you somehow find yourself with a sudden pile of money, you will only use that money well if you have developed the habits ahead of time. Physical Freedom: Bash Bad Habits The first and most obvious steps you must take is to remove bad habits. You have trouble saying no to highly processed sugary foods. You overeat. Do you feel free when you make these decisions that do not align with your stated goals? Of course not! Freedom requires some discipline to build virtues (e.g. the virtue of temperance so you can willingly say no to the donuts). Physical Freedom: Remove Restrictive Goals Many of our coaches and clients have followed overly restrictive goals that they bought into. For example, you follow the dictum that physical strength is the most important thing in life. When you follow this, you will sacrifice your health and get fat to pursue this goal. You will avoid activities you enjoy, such as skiing, swimming, hiking, because this will remove weight on the bar in your next session. Unless you have a hyper-specific goal or truly believe such a restrictive goal is true, ditch this counterproductive dogma. Physical Freedom: Own Your Choices Here is another example. You are so concerned with leanness, that your plan (even if you have not said this explicitly) requires you to never eat your grandma's pie again. Is this really sustainable? Can you avoid every holiday food for every meal forever? Are you really going to eat chicken breast and broccoli every meal. When you have physical freedom, you can choose in indulge when appropriate, knowing you will not go off the rails and that you can make another choice to get leaner after a vacation or holiday period. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Don't delay your fitness goals - do it now! Complete that rep or set, go for a walk, take your first step. Become the person you want to be. Don't Delay Your Fitness Goals: Start Now! Taking your first steps and the subsequent steps moves you closer to your goal. Too many people will "start tomorrow" or, once they begin, quit when it gets hard or when the initial motivation wears off. This is not about a 4, 6, or 12-week diet or workout routine, it is about taking steps that become habits. Lean, strong people do certain things (and avoid certain things) regularly. You will experience pain and anguish, but if you do not make the change you will still be stuck without your goals (and likely having slid further away from them) and experience pain. Think about people who seek comfort and avoid pain all their lives - does pain not creep up to them eventually? Don't Delay Your Fitness Goals: Every Workout & Meal Matters! Andrew shares a story of a workout he did not want to do and almost quit. He ended up turning on the camera, getting over his negative feelings, and the workout actually went pretty well. Visualize the person you want to be and what that person would do. Alternatively, you may envision what your future looks like if you fail to make the changes you desire. Don't delay your fitness goals! Start (or continue) today. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Building a strong nutritional baseline is the key to sustainable, healthy holiday eating. Don't derail for your health & fitness goals due to the holidays! How to Build a Nutrition Baseline Building a nutritional baseline is the ultimate holiday eating hack that let's you truly enjoy special holidays meals and days without totally derailing from your health and fitness goals. What is a nutritional baseline and how do you build yours? A nutritional baseline is a normal, habitual way of eating that you do seven days a week that brings you toward your goals. You know how it feels and looks, you know which foods and in what quantities it consists of. Essentially, you can mindlessly return to this baseline because it is your nutritional normal or your nutritional north. Building a Nutritional Baseline: Fearless Feasting How does this apply to holiday eating, though? Those truly special days that you want to enjoy and not track, you should do so. The surrounding days and really the vast majority of the days during the holiday period, however, you need to eat at your baseline. For some, the holiday season can go from before Halloween through the Super Bowl. That's getting close to half the year. You cannot eat sloppily for half the year. At the same time, however, you should be able to enjoy meals such as Thanksgiving or Christmas with family and friends. Andrew and Niki recommend not tracking on these days (unless you have super strict nutritional goals) but rather focusing on enjoying the food. Walking after the meals can help. Remember, additionally, that eating so much that you are sick is not enjoyable. Enjoy the whole process: family, friends, cooking, eating, drinking, and afterwards. Those in-between days should be at baseline. Building a strong nutritional baseline can help you reach your health and fitness goals, even during the holiday season. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Matt Reynolds, founder of Barbell Logic, believes voluntary hardship is a key to success for those seeking lasting fitness solutions. Matt helps strength coaches and personal trainers transition from traditional gym-based models to online coaching. With over 25 years in strength sports and coaching, Matt launched STRONG Gym in 2008, one of the top strength gyms in the U.S., before selling it in 2015 to create Barbell Logic. His online coaching platform offers affordable, flexible training with expert coaches worldwide. Barbell Logic now serves thousands of clients, including high-profile individuals and organizations like the U.S. Air Force. Matt also hosts the popular Barbell Logic podcast, sharing his expertise in fitness and online coaching. Listen & Subscribe on: iTunes / Stitcher / Podbean / Overcast / Spotify Contact Info Website: www.BarbellLogic.com Podcast: Barbell Logic  Book: Undoing Urgency: Reclaim Your Time for the Things that Matter Most by Ryan Matt Reynolds Most Influential Person My little brother Effect on Emotions I think emotions and feelings lie. I don't think they're not valid, I think that's part of our humanity. I try to approach everything with logic and reason. There are times when I am overjoyed and times when I am really sad. I recognize those emotions, but I think that the mindfulness piece is: Are my emotions telling me the truth right now? Or is this just a feeling that I can approach with logic and reason? I'm not Spock, I'm not a Vulcan. I'm still allowed to have humanity and remain focused on the task at hand. Thoughts on Breathing It's interesting that when you lift, you don't breathe—you hold your breath. This creates inter-abdominal tightness, which sometimes scares people, but it's what keeps you tight from losing rigidity. When I breathe, I'm trying to get myself into a parasympathetic tone or a relaxed state. I use breathing, mindfulness, and focus to get myself out of those times of heightened emotion and a heightened nervous system and bring myself back down to earth so that I can focus on the things that really matter.   Suggested Resources Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear Book: The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber Book: Undoing Urgency: Reclaim Your Time for the Things that Matter Most by Ryan Matt Reynolds App: My Notepad on my Apple Iphone Related Episodes Fit Healthy Grounded Women; Penelope Lane Revamp Your Self With Open Sky Fitness; Rob Dionne Film, Fitness and Food Heals; Allison Melody

Lift your way to a leaner you. Strength training is your secret weapon to leanness, despite the lingering weight loss myth that you should simply diet and do cardio. Debunking the Weight Loss Myth of Cardio & Caloric Restriction You go to the doctor and the doctor tells you that you need to lose a certain amount of weight for your health. He questions why you lift and recommends you perform regular cardiovascular exercise. What do you do? Lift your way to a leaner you (while ensuring you are in a slight caloric deficit). You acknowledge that you could be a bit leaner, but you've been lifting for awhile. You look better with more muscle on your frame and you enjoy strength training. More muscle increases your daily caloric expenditure, as it gives some of your incoming calories an additional place to go beyond fat gain. Lift Your Way to a Leaner You: Slow & Steady Wins the Race Slow and steady weight loss, with consistent lifting and a healthy, high protein diet help minimize muscle loss during your weight loss. Ultimately, you want to be leaner, you do not really care about the number on a scale. The doctor in the above scenario is a bit hyperfocused on BMI. Metrics, however, are supposed to measure progress. In this case, we are concerned about health and longevity. You want more muscle but you also want to be leaner. Abandoning strength training, reducing calories, and adding cardio is likely not going to produce the body you envision. It is certainly not going to help produce a muscular body. Lift Your Way to a Leaner You: Cardio for Cardiovascular Health Conditioning or "cardio" is not really the best way to help increase the calories out part of the calorie equation. A better method would be to increase your daily low-level activity, such as increasing your steps. Regardless, conditioning is really about improving your performance for certain tasks and improving cardiovascular health. Lift your way to a leaner you. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/   Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Buy back your time with a professional coach. Coaching yourself means less progress in the gym and more time learning to become a coach. Buy Back Your Time: Grocery Delivery Example You probably need to value your time more. Too often, people avoid certain purchases because they deem them as too expensive. Sometimes this is true, but often buying back your time - a non-renewable resource - is the best thing you can do. Grocery delivery for most people is a no-brainer. You spend little money to avoid the headaches and time needed to go to the grocery store. Mowing services for grass are another great example. If you do not enjoy doing these tasks and need more time, pay money to someone who will do it for you to earn back your time. Buy Back Your Time: Home Gym Having a home gym is another great way to save time working out. In this case, you will probably also save money over a long-enough period of time. Don't wait for equipment, don't worry about the broccoli hair Zoomers, lift when you want at your house. Buy Back Your Time: Professional Coach This is really the benefit of hiring a professional coach. An expert takes something off your plate, allowing you to not worry about it. That expert will move you to more progress than you otherwise would have gotten. Additionally, you do not have to learn some level of the expertise. Any time you decide to "do it yourself," you are taking on the burden of learning a certain skill that someone else is an expert or professional at. Sometimes, the task is quick, so it's fine. You should consider buying back your time, however, by hiring a professional online coach. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/   Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Pain and setbacks can derail progress. Overcoming pain and setbacks requires addressing your why and acknowledging how you feel when you perform healthy habits. Overcoming Pain and Setbacks: Oh Snap! A client finds himself making progress in all areas of fitness, at the lightest bodyweight in years and working toward specific barbell numbers. He has a week of stressful work, where sleep was out-of-whack, he sat more than normal, and his schedule was off. He returns to the gym and during his warm ups feels a tweak and hears a pop. Training has to change now. Right before he crested the mountain top, he was cutoff at the knees. Suddenly, he found himself letting nutrition, alcohol, and sleep slip too. After all, why was he training now that the clear goals were unachievable? Overcoming Pain and Setbacks: What is Your Why!? This client's why had really become the weight on the bar. It is easy to get emotionally tied to seeing the numbers go up. The numbers cannot (and will not) always go up. It is critical to touch on your deeper whys for training. Even if you signed up for coaching or began training with specific numbers in mind - even if you are an elite lifter chasing numbers - you certainly actually have a deeper reason than seeing a larger amount of iron go up. Overcoming Pain and Setbacks: What Feels Good!? Remembering how you feel when things are going well matters. Yes, the numbers were going up. That was fun. Did you feel good when you were eating healthy, drinking less, and ensuring you got sufficient high-quality sleep? How did it feel to check off your nutrition, fitness, and health tasks every day? When considering how you feel and how you felt, think about over a long period of time. Yes, staying up late with alcohol and processed food feels good in the moment. How do you feel that next morning? How does it feel to check your bodyweight on the scale? What do things look like after a couple weeks of these behaviors? Overcoming Pain and Setbacks: Think of February & March! Think about the future. You may think about running this process through your head - what will things look like if the sloppiness continues for weeks and months? You might also think about a specific time or place in your future. How do you feel in February after months of excess calories? How do you feel in March (or insert your time here) at that beach vacation? What feelings arise when someone who has not seen you in awhile sees you and you've gained weight? Overcoming Pain and Setbacks: Love the Process Loving the results without loving the process will cause problems. Enjoy exposing yourself to discomfort through training. Maybe the weight on the bar is not challenging, but you get to feel a pump. Maybe you don't get a pump, but you have to complete high-repetition exercises you hate - this is voluntary hardship too! Overcoming pain and setbacks is challenging, but you can do it. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/   Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Mastering fitness habits is the key to crushing your goals and gaining lasting results to boost your health and quality of life. Mastering Fitness Habits: Actions You Do No Matter What Habits are things you do without making new decisions. For Andrew, his four healthy habits are walking, food choices, sleep, and training. He can go on auto-pilot in these areas, which automatically bring him toward his health and fitness goals. Niki's dog died recently. No one would have blamed her for not training. For Niki, however, it was not only important to maintain the habit but it actually provided an emotional outlet, where she could get out of the house and get out of her mind and do something healthy for herself. Mastering Fitness Habits: Applied Principles Not Rigid Rules This does not mean black-and-white rigid programs. It does not mean if you do not do your 3x5 low bar squats, 3x5 bench press, and 1x5 deadlift with at least 5 minutes of rest you are not doing the program and have failed and are a bad person. Rather, you incorporate walking regularly as part of your day. Most of the time that means at least 10,000 steps for Andrew, but sometimes that is unrealistic. On vacation, for example, he continues to train, but workouts will tend to be shorter with less volume and less weight. Sleep may become a lower priority on vacations, but it is not completely ignored and certain actions that help Andrew sleep better will be maintained. Mastering Fitness Habits: Find Freedom Habits do not restrict freedom they create it. Do you feel free when you cannot say no to the office donuts or that second or third drink or have to go through the drive through on your way home from work? Is this freedom? No, freedom is not choice. Freedom is the ability to do what you want, in line with your values. If you want to be healthier and more capable, and be able to do more, you have to regularly train, sleep, and eat well. Mastering fitness habits is not complicated, but it's not easy. Learn some tips to crush your health and fitness goals. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/   Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Send us a textWhat happens when a seasoned powerlifter turns his passion for strength into a global coaching revolution? Meet Matt Reynolds, the visionary behind Barbell Logic, who has transformed the fitness coaching landscape through innovation and technology. In our latest episode, Matt shares his incredible journey from high school teacher and strength coach to creating one of the largest online strength and nutrition coaching companies. Discover how his collaborations with high-profile individuals like the US Air Force and his upcoming book, "The Undoing Urgency," are reshaping the conversation around personal growth and accountability in coaching.Prepare to be inspired as Matt reveals the strategic decisions that propelled his business forward, even amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. From developing Turnkey Coach, a proprietary software revolutionizing fitness coaching, to adapting his business model for consumer, business, and military contracts, Matt's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to harness technology for success. He discusses the importance of building a team of specialized coaches that cater to diverse client needs, including postpartum specialists and those experienced with older clients, ensuring personalized, effective coaching.Finally, we explore the power of voluntary hardship in fostering mental toughness and resilience. Matt shares his personal experiences, including a transformative warrior training camp with his son, and practical strategies for maintaining health and fitness amidst a demanding lifestyle. Learn how embracing discomfort through strength training, cold plunges, and realistic goal-setting can lead to profound personal and professional growth. Whether you're an aspiring coach, business owner, or someone eager to build resilience, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and actionable insights.CONNECT WITH MATT!https://ryanmattreynolds.com/https://barbell-logic.com/https://turnkey.coach/This episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Sign Up for our Newsletter and get our FREE E-Book where you'll learn everything you need to know about creating financial freedom through multifamily syndication.Visit www.premierridgecapital.com now! Introducing the 60 Day Deal Finder!Visit: www.MartinREIMastery.comUse the Coupon Code: WEALTHYAFfor 20% off! This episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Build Generational Wealth As A Passive Investor In Multifamily Real Estate Syndication!Visit www.premierridgecapital.com to find out more.Support the showThis episode is brought to you by Premier Ridge Capital.Sign Up for our Newsletter and get our FREE E-Book where you'll learn everything you need to know about creating financial freedom through multifamily syndication.Build Generational Wealth As A Passive Investor In Multifamily Real Estate Syndication!Visit www.premierridgecapital.com to find out more.Introducing the 60 Day Deal Finder!Visit: www.WealthyAF.aiUse the Coupon Code: WEALTHYAF for 20% off!

Learn why you should walk more, how it improves your health, mindfulness, and quality of life. Don't eschew this pedestrian but effective fitness tool. Physical Fitness Benefits of Walking More A good reason why you should walk more is because it provides many health & fitness benefits. Andrew mentions a study that shows that the benefits of walking 10,000 steps a day equates to, essentially, a "change in effective years" of 8 years. To simplify, it equates to making you 8 years younger than you otherwise would be. Now, it is easy to draw too much from studies, but what is clear is that walking was correlated with positive health outcomes. Walking is accessible to almost all people, usually exposes you to the sun and gets you out from behind screens, and gives you time to think about things. Mental Health Benefits of Walking More Another reason why you should walk more is the benefits to your mental health. Walking gets you away from screens and your everyday problems. Creating this time and space to do something else let's you think or do other important activities such as think, talk, or listen to a podcast or audiobook. Walking is a great activity to do with deep work. You can decide to take a break from the urgent and focus on the important, while doing something physical. Why you should walk more!? Because it's all-around good for you. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/   Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Learn about how Jack Armstrong, BLOC client, completed the Three Peaks Challenge for charity. You can donate to the cause here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/daniel-surphlis-1718352507474 Three Peaks Challenge for Charity Jack Armstrong, BLOC client, competed the Three Peaks Challenge. The challenge involves climbing the 3 highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales, along with driving to the peaks, within 24 hours. Jack's training had to change, with much higher volume at low intensity and ensuring that his back (which can act up with heavy deadlifts and squats) was healthy. He also hiked regularly. The event itself was one long, hard day, and the team only failed to complete the challenge under time because they got stuck in traffic (but they ascended and descended the hills under their planned time). Despite the rain, wind, cold, hail, and physical pain, this - being stuck in traffic - was the most painful moment of the day. If you want to help donate to the hospital where Margot, who has cancer, is being treated, you can give here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/daniel-surphlis-1718352507474 PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Struggling to get back into the gym after a long break? Learn how to overcome mental and physical challenges and restart your fitness journey with our beginner's guide. Returning to the Gym After a Long Break: Shift Your Mental Mindset You went on a vacation, got sick, had a baby, were injured, or had your gym closed down. How do you get back to working out regularly? Niki and Andrew first, of course, recommend that you probably want to avoid this situation if you can. Even if it's just some light bodyweight exercises, this is significantly better than no exercise. The hardest aspect of this is in your head. Once you take a break longer than about 3-5 days, you will find a significant decrease in performance. Because of this, you will have to deal address your expectations for what your body can do based on its past performance versus its current performance. Focus on the habit of training and identify yourself as a lifter - you are someone who strength trains. Lastly, remember that you are moving toward your goal, but that it will likely take longer than you would like (but in the grand scheme of things it will not take that long). Returning to the Gym After a Long Break: Soreness & Other Physical Challenges As you have to adjust your mindset, you also need to adjust the weight and volume. Begin with lower volume and lower weight. It is much better to err on the side of too light than too heavy. It will help you ease back into the program, build confidence, and enjoy the quick gains from the lower weight as opposed to quickly missing reps because you tried to begin as close to your limit as possible. Expect that your second workout or second day at the gym will be harder than the first. Especially with the squat, you will experience soreness. Remember that movement will help with soreness. Enjoy the shock to your system. Beginning your strength training routine after a break should not be scary. Take it easy, adjust your mindset, and get back in the gym! Share your experience with returning to the gym after a long break. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

You need to choose hard things to crush your goals, become a better person, and live a more fulfilling life. Cody McBroom joins us to discuss the importance of choosing hard things. Check out the Tailored Coaching Method. Choose Hard Things: The Transforming Power of Fitness Cody had been an overweight youth but decided to begin to take his health and fitness seriously. When he wedded his nascent health and fitness journey with a passion for learning as he changed his major in college, he never looked back and pursued a career as a strength and nutrition coach. Cody found that by simply doing hard things regularly and improving his health and fitness, he improved all other aspects of his life. Truly, embracing voluntary hardship can alter the course of your life for the better. The decision to do the hard things matters. Choosing Hard Things in Business & Life Cody, like Matt, saw the downsides of the in-person coaching model. He started an online coaching business in 2017, the year after Matt began Barbell Logic Online Coaching. He has focused on tailored nutrition and fitness coaching, prioritizing normal every day people looking to avoid the tragically-too-normal slide to obesity and disease. He has had to learn about business (again, embracing hard things) to help his business grow, which ultimately helps more people transform their lives. Choose hard things every day. PS - This podcast is brought to you by TurnKey Coach. Enhance your coaching effectiveness and efficiency with TurnKey Coach. You can learn more by going HERE. Check out Coaching 101 - the new Academy course designed to cover the basics of coaching. It's leaner and tighter than our other offerings (and cheaper). Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Should I lift if I'm tired? It depends, on your tendencies, goals, experience, normal state, and more. We help you answer for yourself if you should lift today. Should I Train if I'm Tired? Experience & Tendencies You're going to feel tired sometimes. What do you do if you feel tired? Should you train? It depends. Niki recently felt tired and ended up taking a nap instead of training. She has learned, over years and decades of training, that this occurs regularly, she knows she will train the next day. Niki loves training and knows she will train the next day. You may begin to find similar patterns. Remember, though, most people seek to avoid training, so know your tendencies. Andrew shares a different experience, where for a long period of time he was sleep-deprived and always tired. He has had to learn, over time, that he would feel better after training, but he also had to reduce the expectations. If he never trained when he was tired, he would never exercise. Expecting the weight to go up every workout, however, is creates a loop of disappointment, guilt, and can lead to missed training. Should I Train if I'm Tired? Take Ownership of Your Training Regardless of your decision, you have to own your decision and your training. If you skip today, own it, know why you did it, and do not let it break your training habit. If you train, own that as well. Expecting PRs or the prescribed weight and volume may be counterproductive. Rather, aim to maintain the habit. This is about behaviors and patterns that contribute to your quality of life and long-term goals. This is not about hacks, short cuts, or other snake oil. You have to put in the work over the long haul. Should I train if I am tired? Find out! PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Learn about moving your personal training clients online - how to do it and how it improves your online coaching business model & life. Matt Reynolds interviews Matt Fever, a coach at Barbell Logic, who discusses how we transitioned from personal trainer to professional coach to professional online coach, and how he have moved his in-person clients from in-person to online. Moving Your Personal Training Clients Online: Online Coaching Business Model Successfully transitioning your clients from in-person to online makes a ton of sense for your quality of life and business model as a strength coach. The biggest value of in-person training comes primarily during those initial sessions, when often drastic technique changes need to be made and you develop a relationship grounded in trust, expertise, and benevolence. As the relationship progresses, however, the value of in-person coaching decreases. Form correction becomes less frequent and less drastic, whereas programming changes become more complicated and necessary. Asynchronous online coaching allows the client to lift wherever and whenever is convenient, and then the coach to respond within 24-48 hours wherever or whenever works for the coach. It increases the dollar-per-hour pay to the coach while decreasing the cost to the client. How to Move Your Personal Training Clients Online: Make More Money & Improve Your Quality of Life Matt Fever has made the transition from personal trainer and leader of group classes to professional coach. Attending an in-person lifting seminar with Barbell Logic was a turning point, as Matt Fever signed up for the Academy, started receiving online coaching from Matt Reynolds, and really honed his knowledge and expertise and learned about the online coaching business model. He has been transitioning his clients from in-person to online. This has allowed him to spend more time with his family. It has also led to his clients having higher compliance, as he can coach when he is on vacation (whereas previously he could not coach and did not get paid). His clients can also lift and receiving coaching if they travel. Moving your personal training clients online dramatically improves your quality of life and helps you develop a successful online coaching business model. PS - This podcast is brought to you by TurnKey Coach. Enhance your coaching effectiveness and efficiency with TurnKey Coach. You can learn more by going HERE. Check out Coaching 101 - the new Academy course designed to cover the basics of coaching. It's leaner and tighter than our other offerings (and cheaper). Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Learn how to get your back back after a chronic injury. It takes patience, focus on recovery, and a focus on what is truly important. How to Get Your Back Back: What Is Your Goal? You have to remember what your goal is. What matters most to you? Niki had an emotional attachment, built over years with baked-in assumptions she had to reevaluate, about the need for the weight on the bar to go up on a few lifts in a limited rep range. She had to ditch this as the metric that mattered. What she REALLY wanted was to build muscle mass, enjoy the gym, and limit or eliminate pain. Dreading the gym and waking up in pain every morning was not working. Do you HAVE to deadlift to build muscle mass? No you do not. We love the deadlift, but if the deadlift is causing you to hate your workouts and be in pain all the time, then it is not moving you closer to your goals and you should ditch the deadlift. Niki also decided to stop BJJ. While she enjoyed it, she was underrecovered and it was not bringing her closer to her most important goals. How to Get Your Back Back: Patience Instead of lifting heavy, Niki had to reduce stress and prioritize recovery. This first looked like lighter bodyweight and light implement movements. Then it moved onto machines. For Niki, the jump to machines was huge, because she was able to train hard without making her back worse. Ironically, the crooked path toward her goal has brought her closer to PRs than the path of beating her head (or maybe her back) against the wall of pain, frustration, and trying to do the program. She had to train curious and see if the exercise hurt, be ready to modify the weight or range of motion. She had to emotionally detach from weight on the bar. She had to rather focus on other things - did she wake up in pain. Did her back hurt during the workout? Waking up without pain was a win aligned with her goals that was worth celebrating. Learn how to get your back back. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Use a time audit to know where your time is going, enhance your efficiency & effectiveness, and boost your productivity. This simple tool may transform your life. Time Audit: Why It Matters - Know Where Your Time is Going You are your biggest time waster. You may feel that others (e.g. your boss, kids, etc.) waste most of your time, but a couple things in response to this notion of your. One, you cannot fully control these things. Two, insofar as you can control them, it often comes with how you react to them, approach them, or major life overhauls (e.g. changing jobs). C. Northcote Parkinson describe in a 1955 essay in the Economist what has called Parkinson's Law - works expands to fill the available time. If you give yourself a month to complete a task, it will take a month. That same work could have taken you a week or day if you had assigned that amount of time. Ultimately, this has limits (you cannot assign a nanosecond to something and assume it will get done), but this law has value. Instead of considering it a negative reality, give yourself less time and hold yourself accountable. Work to develop better habits of time management. Just like nutrition or budgeting, worst knowing what you are consuming or how you are spending helps you begin to modify your actions. Time Audit: What It Is & How To Do It A time audit is a method to track how you spend your time over a given period. It helps you identify non-urgent, non-important tasks you can eliminate and urgent tasks you can delegate. Additionally, you will likely fine that the simple act of completing the time audit will improve your time management actions. Track blocks of time down to the 15 or 30-minute increment for one week. If something takes less than that time, you can write that down. Matt has a 15-minute timer that he uses. When it goes off, he quickly jots down what he did. Matt uses Clockify, but you could use a spreadsheet or pen and paper. You can read an article Matt recently wrote about the time audit here. You may also be interested in reading Dan Martell's book Buy Back Your Time. Matt recommends, even if you have done pretty well with time management, doing this annually or bi-annually to check-in and continue to improve your time management. PS - This podcast is brought to you by TurnKey Coach. Enhance your coaching effectiveness and efficiency with TurnKey Coach. You can learn more by going HERE. Check out Coaching 101 - the new Academy course designed to cover the basics of coaching. It's leaner and tighter than our other offerings (and cheaper). Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Prioritizing your health helps boost all other priorities in your life. Respect yourself and your boundaries and learn how to prioritize your health, no matter what. How to Prioritize Your Health: Set & Protect Boundaries Do not allow work travel or other obligations cause you to abandon your priorities. If you lose your health your work and those other responsibilities will suffer. Prioritizing your health means understanding this is important to you and putting time and effort into it, even when time and effort is severely limited. When you fail to prioritize your health, not only does your work suffer, but you will likely feel growing resentment, as you have failed to defend your goals and have your actions reflect your core values. Prioritizing Your Health During Travel & Difficult Times For Andrew and Niki, investing in health during travel looks like consistently getting to the gym, maintaining a habit of walking, and picking better food choices. This does not mean two hour workouts or the same diet one might eat during a strenuous cut. It means, however, ensuring you maintaining the habit of exercise and working toward your goals. It means attempting to get 10,000 steps. It means looking for healthier food options, prioritizing protein and fiber insofar as you can. You cannot completely let your guard down. You cannot relax your standards with reckless abandon. This is not how you accomplish your goals long-term. This is especially important and true if you travel regularly. Prioritizing your health means respecting yourself, your goals, and your boundaries. PS - If you're interested in taking online coaching with Barbell Logic for a test run, check it out here. Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com

Don't be lazy because of the freedom that comes from being a business owner or your own boss. Don't Be Lazy: You Can Do More Most people do not do enough. The evidence for this is all the time people waste performing non-important, unurgent tasks such as watching TikTok, doom-scrolling through Twitter, or binge-watching Netflix. Do not build walls around your time that should not exist. "It's unhealthy to work on the weekend" or "I deserve to not work on the weekend" can be the difference between your business succeeding and growing or failing. You have more time than you think. You can do more than you think. This does not mean that you do not enjoy time with your family or in leisure activities. People, however, by and large, are too lazy. People generally do less than they can. Don't Be Lazy Because of Your Freedom Business owners and the self-employed enjoy the freedom to set their own schedules and choose how to spend their time. This may be the single greatest aspect of starting a business or being your own boss. If you give in to your worst tendencies, however, you will not do enough. You will choose laziness. Matt, for example, gets up early to complete urgent tasks when no one else is awake. He does this on the weekend as well, which leaves him ready to perform on Monday as the CEO. He does not begin work Monday morning having to catch up on email. Don't let freedom lead to laziness. Don't be lazy, but rather do the work. PS - This podcast is brought to you by TurnKey Coach. Enhance your coaching effectiveness and efficiency with TurnKey Coach. You can learn more by going HERE. Check out Coaching 101 - the new Academy course designed to cover the basics of coaching. It's leaner and tighter than our other offerings (and cheaper). Check out the Barbell Logic podcast landing page. Get Matched with a Professional Strength Coach today for FREE! No contract with us, just commitment to yourself: Start experiencing strength now: https://store.barbell-logic.com/match/ Connect with the hosts Matt on Instagram Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email podcast@barbell-logic.com