Podcasts about fitness podcast

Welcome to the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast!Nutrition can make or break a body recomp phase. In this episode, Brandon DaCruz is back on for part three of our body recomp series, and we break down the nutrition strategies we use with clients, including deficit size, protein intake and distribution, carbohydrate quality and timing, calorie cycling, and dietary fat.We also catch up on training and life, including training around a new baby, time-efficient training techniques, and Brandon's current fat loss phase and why he still puts himself through the process.So if you want to learn how to set up your nutrition for a recomp phase based on your goals, body composition, and training, this episode is for you.Let's talk about:Baby #2 and Training Around a New ScheduleTime-Efficient Training Techniques"Never Miss Two" and Building Momentum Over MotivationBrandon's Current Fat Loss PhaseCan You Change Your Lower Intervention Point Over Time?Deficit Size and Lean Mass ChangesWhy Start a Recomp at MaintenanceFat Loss Focused vs. Building Focused RecompSetting Realistic Recomp ExpectationsUsing a Primer Phase Before a RecompWhy Lab Work Matters Before Pushing a RecompWhy Protein Is the Most Important Nutrition LeverHow Much Protein for Body RecompAdjusting Protein Based on Body Fat LevelsProtein DistributionCarbohydrates for Body RecompCarbohydrate QualityFueling Around Training vs. the Rest of the DayAdjusting Carbs Based on Metabolic HealthUsing Calorie Cycling in a RecompPracticing Maintenance During a Fat Loss PhaseDietary Fat and TestosteroneLow-Carb Diets and Thyroid LevelsFollow Brandon on Instagram @brandondacruz_: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/Chasing Clarity Health and Fitness Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chasing-clarity-health-fitness-podcast/id1619611966 Body Recomp Workshop Replay: https://chipper-producer-6244.kit.com/791129889cFollow me on Instagram for more information and education: https://www.instagram.com/jeffhoehn_/?hl=enHow You Can Work With Me?: https://jhhealth.net/workwithme/Coaching application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfE-99wLDZRXlOOY1pWuAmkogdZOm-7ZvN_thbqNWLdNrj5bg/viewform  

Everyone wants to know if you can build muscle and lose fat at the same time. But the more important question is how you actually program for it.Over the first two episodes of this series, Jeff and I built the case that recomp is real, covered who can do it, and broke down why women may be especially primed for it. Now it's time to get tactical.In this episode of the CHASING CLARITY HEALTH & FITNESS PODCAST, I'm joined again by Jeff Hoehn, host of the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast, to walk through the exact nutrition and energy-balance levers we pull with clients to actually drive body recomposition in the real world. This is the practical playbook: how we set calories, where we put protein, how we use carbs, and how we handle dietary fat to build muscle and lose fat at the same time.WE GET INTO: WHY WE START MOST CLIENTS AT MAINTENANCE INSTEAD OF DIVING STRAIGHT INTO A DEFICIT THE 500-CALORIE THRESHOLD WHERE MUSCLE GAIN STARTS TO FALL APART (AND THE RESEARCH BEHIND IT) HOW WE TITRATE A SMALL, CONSERVATIVE DEFICIT TO DRIVE FAT LOSS WITHOUT KILLING MUSCLE GROWTH WHY PROTEIN IS THE SINGLE HIGHEST-LEVERAGE DIETARY VARIABLE FOR RECOMP OUR TIERED PROTEIN TARGETS BASED ON BODY FAT LEVEL & WHY PROTEIN DISTRIBUTION ACROSS THE DAY MATTERS HOW TO USE CARBS TO FUEL TRAINING QUALITY, THE TRUE ENGINE OF RECOMP CARB QUALITY, PERI-WORKOUT FUELING & WHY THE RIGHT CARB SOURCE DEPENDS ON THE PURPOSE OF THE MEAL WHY DIETARY FAT GETS ALLOCATED LAST & THE TRUTH ABOUT LOW FAT, TESTOSTERONE & HORMONES DURING A DIETIf you've ever wondered exactly how to set up your nutrition to build muscle and lose fat at the same time, this is the episode that turns the theory into an actual plan.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDS https://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.comEpisode SummaryIn the latest episode of our collaboration with the Chasing Clarity Health and Fitness Podcast, Mikki is joined again by online nutrition and physique coach Brandon DaCruz to talk refeeds and diet breaks. These tools have been used in bodybuilding and physique coaching for decades, with plenty of claims attached: that they boost leptin, prevent metabolic adaptation or speed up fat loss. Mikki and Brandon start with definitions. A refeed is a structured, tracked one to three days at around maintenance, with the extra calories coming mostly from carbohydrate. A diet break is one to two weeks at maintenance. Neither is a cheat meal. They then look at why a long deficit gets harder over time, through rising hunger, falling NEAT, poorer training and accumulated diet fatigue.Brandon works through the research by outcome. When the overall deficit is matched, the trials and a recent meta-analysis show similar fat loss with intermittent and continuous dieting, and any hormonal lift from a short refeed is likely to be temporary. There may be a small benefit for resting metabolic rate and lean mass, with caveats, and the most consistent benefit is for hunger, dietary satisfaction and adherence. Mikki explains how she schedules refeeds in Mondays Matter as practice at eating at maintenance, and how she plans diet breaks around holidays and busy periods. Brandon walks through how he titrates refeeds with lifestyle and physique clients, and why the extra calories come from familiar carbohydrate foods rather than hyperpalatable ones. Both are clear that these strategies can backfire for some people, and that someone who is progressing well doesn't need another intervention.Key TopicsRefeeds, diet breaks and cheat meals are not the same thing. Refeeds and diet breaks are planned and tracked; a cheat meal removes the structure, and both hosts would happily retire the word "cheat" (06:53).Why a prolonged deficit gets harder. Hunger and appetite rise, NEAT drops without people noticing, lower carbohydrate availability affects training, and diet fatigue builds. Brandon likens a refeed or diet break to a training deload (12:46).Refeeds as a skill, not just a physiological tool. Mikki builds three-day refeeds into Mondays Matter every two weeks so people can practise eating more without fear, and both hosts plan diet breaks around holidays and work travel (20:21).Fat loss research. With deficits equated, intermittent and continuous dieting produce similar fat loss. Brandon explains the "whoosh" effect he has seen in practice and why a short-term hormonal boost is unlikely to drive fat loss on its own (28:38).Lean mass, metabolic rate and adherence. There is some signal for better lean mass retention and a slightly smaller drop in resting metabolic rate, with caveats. The clearest benefits are less hunger, more satisfaction and less disinhibition (36:12).Personality matters. Some people will adhere regardless, and for some "abstainers" a single refeed day can turn into an overfeeding week (39:41).Training performance. A carbohydrate-based diet break improved lower-body muscular endurance in one secondary analysis, and Brandon times refeeds around priority sessions for his physique athletes (44:23).How they each structure refeeds. Mikki first rules out non-deficit causes of poor sleep, cravings or low energy. Brandon starts with one day, keeps the usual foods, increases carbohydrate, holds fat and adjusts based on biofeedback (47:46, 50:44).Why carbs go up, not fat. Fat is usually already low deep into a diet, protein often has a buffer, and food volume matters: energy-dense "refeeds" can leave people eating less food and feeling hungrier (59:58).Who benefits most. Long-term dieters who are getting leaner than ever, training hard and struggling with hunger or fatigue. For someone losing at a good rate and adhering well, adding one can simply break momentum (1:13:17).Chapters00:00 Introduction and the collaboration series06:53 Refeeds, diet breaks and cheat meals defined12:46 The costs of a prolonged deficit20:21 How Mikki uses refeeds with groups and travel28:38 Do refeeds improve fat loss?36:12 Lean mass, adherence and personality types44:23 Refeeds and training performance47:46 Mikki's one-on-one approach50:44 How Brandon structures refeeds and diet breaks59:58 Why carbs go up, not fat, on refeed days1:07:28 Benefits seen in practice1:13:17 Who benefits most, and wrap-upGuest / ResourcesBrandon DaCruz, online nutrition and physique coach, accredited nutritionist and host of the Chasing Clarity Health and Fitness Podcast. Instagram: @brandondacruz_Mondays Matter, Mikki's eight-week group fat loss programme.The ICECAP trial: Peos JJ et al. (2021), continuous versus intermittent dieting in resistance-trained adults. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.ICECAP secondary analysis: Peos JJ et al. (2021), changes in performance, hunger and alertness across a one-week diet break. PLoS One.Siedler MR et al. (2023), continuous dieting versus diet breaks in resistance-trained women, from Bill Campbell's lab. Journal of Human Kinetics.Poon ET et al. (2025). Effects of intermittent dieting with break periods on body composition and metabolic adaptation. Systematic review and meta-analysis, Nutrition Reviews.Campbell BI et al. (2020). Intermittent energy restriction attenuates the loss of fat free mass in resistance trained individuals. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology. Plus the published comment and reanalysis by Peos and colleagues in the same journal.Dirlewanger M et al. (2000). Effects of short-term carbohydrate or fat overfeeding on energy expenditure and plasma leptin concentrations in healthy female subjects. International Journal of Obesity.Friedl KE et al. (2000). Endocrine markers of semistarvation in healthy lean men in a multistressor environment (US Army Ranger training). Journal of Applied Physiology.Barbara Rolls, research on energy density, food volume and satiety.Lyle McDonald, The Ultimate Diet 2.0.Earlier episodes in this collaboration on rapid fat loss, and on why fat loss maintenance can be harder than fat loss.Find Mikki on Instagram, Threads and X at @mikkiwilliden, on Facebook at Mikki Williden Nutrition, and at mikkiwilliden.com. Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz  or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:

In this episode, I share 10 things I wish I'd understood earlier—from keeping workouts simple and learning how hard to actually train, to setting realistic expectations, doing cardio year-round and training for more than just looking better.Book a Consultation Call1:1 Online Coaching14-Day Fat Loss Kick-StarterFree Fitness Guides"Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here" BookInstagramThreadsYouTubeTools I Use for Training, Work, and Daily Life Timestamps:(00:38) Intro: What I Wish I Knew When I Started Working Out(03:04) Track Your Workouts Properly(07:16) Focus on Getting Stronger(11:33) Learn How Hard to Actually Train(18:08) Keep Your Workouts Simple(20:42) Take Recovery Seriously(24:13) Do Cardio Year-Round(27:53) Stop Trying to Eat Perfectly(29:50) Stop Wasting Money on Fitness Stuff(31:48) Set Realistic Expectations for Progress(35:46) Train for More Than Just Looking Better(37:34) Conclusion: 10 Things I'd Do Differently If I Started Working Out Again

Do refeeds and diet breaks actually improve fat loss, preserve your metabolism and help you maintain more muscle, or do they simply give you more calories and slow down your diet?In the second collaboration between the Chasing Clarity Health & Fitness Podcast and MIKKIPEDIA, I'm joined again by my good friend Dr. Mikki Williden to break down the science and practical application of refeeds and diet breaks.Rather than a traditional interview, Mikki and I work through the same questions from our individual perspectives as evidence-based practitioners, combining the research with what we've learned from years of working with clients in the real world.We start by defining the major intermittent dieting strategies and explaining the important differences between a structured carbohydrate refeed, a diet break and an untracked cheat meal.From there, we break down what happens as a Fat Loss Phase progresses, including increases in hunger and food focus, reductions in energy expenditure and NEAT, declining training performance, diet fatigue and the increasing importance of lean-mass retention.We then take a deep dive into the research to answer what refeeds and diet breaks actually appear to do.TOPICS INCLUDE:CONTINUOUS VS. INTERMITTENT ENERGY RESTRICTIONREFEEDS VS. DIET BREAKS VS. CHEAT MEALSWHY DIET FATIGUE INCREASES AS YOU GET LEANERHUNGER, LEPTIN, GHRELIN, PYY & APPETITE REGULATIONMETABOLIC ADAPTATION, RMR & NEATDO REFEEDS PRESERVE LEAN MASS?CAN DIET BREAKS PREVENT YOUR METABOLISM FROM SLOWING DOWN?THE ICECAP TRIALCARBOHYDRATE AVAILABILITY, GLYCOGEN & TRAINING PERFORMANCEHOW MIKKI AND I USE REFEEDS WITH CLIENTSWHEN I USE A LONGER DIET BREAKWHY PRACTICING MAINTENANCE MAY BE ONE OF THE MOST OVERLOOKED BENEFITSWHO BENEFITS MOST FROM THESE STRATEGIESWHY REFEEDS AND DIET BREAKS ARE TOOLS, NOT MANDATORY PARTS OF EVERY DIETUltimately, the goal isn't to make fat loss more complicated. It's to understand which tools can help the right person continue making progress while managing hunger, performance, adherence and accumulated diet fatigue.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDShttps://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccwContact Mikki:https://mikkiwilliden.com/https://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/

Send us a text if you want to be on the Podcast & explain why!Programming gets easier the moment the lower body stops feeling like a blur of Latin words. We walk you through the exact muscle groups you need for the SUF CPT and make them stick with clear landmarks, real coaching cues, and a few memory tricks you will actually remember under pressure. If you have ever mixed up tendons vs ligaments, forgotten where the hamstrings sit behind the knee, or wondered why a seated calf raise feels different than standing, you are in the right place. We start with the quadriceps, including why rectus femoris is different from the vastus muscles and how the patella, quad tendon, and patellar ligament connect the story. Then we flip to the posterior chain and make the hamstrings practical: how to identify the medial “two guitar strings,” where biceps femoris shows up laterally, and how foot rotation can bias what you feel during a leg curl. We also cover the adductors (longus, magnus, brevis) with an easy size-based naming framework, plus why adductor magnus earns its reputation as a powerhouse. From there we hit the glutes with a fiber-focused view of gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus, including why pronunciation matters for the exam and for sounding like a confident coach. We close with the lower leg: gastrocnemius vs soleus, peroneals vs fibularis terminology, and the BLT mnemonic for brevis, longus, tertius. If you want better personal training anatomy, smarter lower body exercise selection, and stronger coaching confidence, press play, subscribe, share this with a training buddy, and leave a review with the muscle group you are mastering next.Want to become a SUCCESSFUL personal trainer? SUF-CPT is the FASTEST growing personal training certification in the world!Want to ask us a question?  Email info@showupfitness.com with the subject line PODCAST QUESTION to get your question answered live on the show!Website: https://www.showupfitness.com/Become a Successful Personal Trainer Book Vol. 2 (Amazon): https://a.co/d/1aoRnqANASM / ACE / ISSA study guide: https://www.showupfitness.com

LOF wants to hear from you!Michael Caulo previews his upcoming MedFit Global Virtual Conference presentation, Movement As Medicine.In this short teaser episode, Michael introduces the idea that movement is not only about weight loss, calories, or physical performance.Movement can also be used as a practical tool to support focus, stress regulation, sleep quality, cognitive performance, ADHD-related challenges, and daily transitions.This preview introduces key ideas from the presentation, including:State Before StrategyRegulate, Activate, PerformMovement As A Transition RitualMinimum Viable MovementCapacity Before ComplexityMovement SnacksMovement, ADHD, And Executive FunctionAwareness, Intention, Action, And AccountabilityThe full presentation will be available through the MedFit Global Virtual Conference, September 24-27, 2026.Conference Details:MedFit Global Virtual ConferenceSeptember 24-27, 2026100 Percent Online!Learn More at fbasucceed.com/medfit and use code GVC26 to register for just $99! (Save $100!)

Why do some muscle groups seem to grow from almost anything you throw at them while others lag behind for years?And when a body part refuses to keep pace with the rest of your physique, is it really genetics, or is the issue more often exercise selection, execution, volume, or the way your training is structured?On this episode of the Chasing Clarity Health & Fitness Podcast, I'm joined once again by Dr. Eric Helms for a deep dive into how to diagnose and bring up stubborn or lagging muscle groups.We start by breaking down what actually qualifies as a lagging body part and why the term “stubborn muscle group” may sometimes oversimplify the problem.Eric explains how genetics, skeletal structure, muscle architecture, biomechanics, and even unrealistic physique expectations can influence how a muscle looks and develops, and why a body part that appears genetically disadvantaged may still have considerable room for improvement.From there, we get into one of the most important parts of the conversation: exercise selection.We discuss why simply performing an exercise that is commonly associated with a muscle does not guarantee that every region of that muscle is receiving an effective hypertrophy stimulus, why biarticular muscles create unique programming considerations, and where isolation work can fill gaps left by compound movements.We also get practical with how to determine whether the target muscle is actually becoming the limiting factor in an exercise using performance, pumps, soreness, drop sets, isolation movements, and other forms of training biofeedback.Then we move into specialization cycles and discuss when it makes sense to stop trying to grow everything equally and deliberately shift more of your training resources toward one lagging muscle group.TOPICS INCLUDE:WHAT ACTUALLY QUALIFIES AS A STUBBORN OR LAGGING MUSCLE GROUPGENETICS VERSUS PROGRAMMING AND EXERCISE-SELECTION PROBLEMSWHY DIFFERENT REGIONS OF THE SAME MUSCLE MAY GROW DIFFERENTLYWHY SOME EXERCISES FAIL TO FULLY STIMULATE THE MUSCLE YOU THINK THEY DOCOMPOUND VERSUS ISOLATION EXERCISES FOR COMPLETE DEVELOPMENTHOW TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE TARGET MUSCLE IS ACTUALLY LIMITING THE SETUSING PUMPS, SORENESS, PERFORMANCE, AND OTHER BIOFEEDBACK INTELLIGENTLYWHY RANDOM EXERCISE VARIATION RARELY MAKES SENSEHOW MUCH EXERCISE VARIETY YOU ACTUALLY NEEDWHEN SPECIALIZATION CYCLES BECOME APPROPRIATEHOW MUCH TO INCREASE VOLUME FOR A LAGGING MUSCLE GROUPWHY YOUR PREVIOUS TRAINING VOLUME MATTERSREALLOCATING VOLUME FROM DOMINANT MUSCLES TOWARD WEAK POINTSWHY EXERCISE QUALITY SHOULD USUALLY IMPROVE BEFORE VOLUME INCREASESBALANCING HYPERTROPHY STIMULUS AGAINST FATIGUE, JOINT STRESS, AND INJURY RISKSETTING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS FOR PROGRESS AS AN ADVANCED TRAINEEIf you have a body part you've been calling “genetically stubborn” for years, this episode will give you a much better framework for determining why it is actually lagging and what variables you can change to get it progressing again.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDShttps://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

Do women actually need to train differently from men?Do women need to lift primarily in very low rep ranges to build muscle?Is HIIT uniquely superior for the female body?Does Zone 2 work differently for women?And when fat loss is the goal, should women prioritize intervals or lower-intensity continuous cardio?There has been an explosion of female-specific training advice across social media, and much of it sounds highly scientific.It references hormones, muscle-fiber types, metabolic flexibility, mitochondrial adaptations, menopause, and sex-specific physiology.But one of the biggest mistakes we continue to see is identifying a legitimate physiological difference between women and men and immediately turning it into a universal female-specific training recommendation.In this episode of the Chasing Clarity Health & Fitness Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Tony Boutagy for what I'm calling a Female Exercise Masterclass.Together, we separate social media fiction from the human evidence and discuss what actually matters when programming resistance training and cardio for women.HERE'S WHAT WE COVER:DO WOMEN ACTUALLY NEED TO TRAIN DIFFERENTLY FROM MEN?WHICH PHYSIOLOGICAL SEX DIFFERENCES ACTUALLY MATTER FOR PROGRAM DESIGN?DO WOMEN RESPOND DIFFERENTLY TO RESISTANCE TRAINING?THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ABSOLUTE & RELATIVE MUSCLE GROWTHDO WOMEN NEED TO LIFT HEAVY TO BUILD MUSCLE?THE MYTH THAT WOMEN NEED TO TRAIN PRIMARILY IN THE 3–5 REP RANGELOW-, MODERATE- & HIGH-LOAD TRAINING FOR HYPERTROPHYTHE FOUNDATIONAL TRAINING PRINCIPLES THAT APPLY TO BOTH WOMEN & MENWHY SHORT REST PERIODS AREN'T AUTOMATICALLY BETTER FOR WOMENIS HIIT UNIQUELY SUPERIOR FOR WOMEN?WHY HARDER CARDIO DOESN'T AUTOMATICALLY MEAN BETTER FAT LOSSHOW EXCESSIVE HIIT CAN IMPACT RECOVERY, NEAT & LIFTING PERFORMANCEIS ZONE 2 CARDIO LESS EFFECTIVE FOR WOMEN?THE PROBLEM WITH USING ANIMAL & MECHANISTIC RESEARCH TO CREATE FEMALE-SPECIFIC CARDIO RULESWHAT THE LARGEST HUMAN DATASET SHOWS ABOUT SEX, MENOPAUSE & MITOCHONDRIAL ADAPTATIONSHOW TO COMBINE RESISTANCE TRAINING & CARDIO FOR BUILDING MUSCLE WHILE LOSING BODY FATHOW TO STRUCTURE CARDIO WITHOUT COMPROMISING LOWER-BODY TRAINING OR RECOVERYThe goal of this episode is not to pretend that women and men are physiologically identical.It is to understand when those differences matter, how much they matter, and whether they are actually significant enough to change what we do in practice.Because not every sex difference requires a different training program.For most women, the fundamentals still matter most:Progressive overloadSufficient training volumeHigh degrees of effortAppropriate proximity to failureAdequate recoveryStrategically programmed cardioAnd consistency over timeThis episode gives women and coaches a clear, evidence-informed framework for cutting through the noise and building a training and cardio program around what actually drives results.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDShttps://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

She gave up sugar at 55 and lost 27 pounds—but the most important changes went far beyond the scale. After receiving alarming test results showing prediabetes, fatty liver disease and concerns about her kidney function, author and journalist Sibylla Nash knew something had to change. She made the life-changing decision to dramatically reduce her sugar intake—and the results surprised even her. In this episode of Six Weeks to Fitness, Sibylla shares how reducing sugar helped her lose 27 pounds after age 55, control her cravings, improve her energy and take greater responsibility for her health. In this episode, you'll discover: • The health scare that became Sibylla's wake-up call • How prediabetes and fatty liver disease motivated her to change • Why sugary drinks were sabotaging her weight-loss efforts • What happened to her cravings after she reduced sugar • How she lost 27 pounds after age 55 • The challenges of losing weight after menopause • Why exercise alone wasn't enough to improve her health • Her current approach to sugar, portion control and healthy eating • The next step she is taking to improve her healthspan • Her advice for adults over 40 who want to make lasting changes Sibylla's story is a powerful reminder that healthy aging isn't simply about living longer—it's about preserving your energy, strength, independence and quality of life. FREE 21-DAY SUGAR-FREE CHALLENGE Beginning September 28, 2026, VINCE Magazine, Body Sculpt of New York and Six Weeks to Fitness are hosting a free 21-Day Sugar-Free Challenge led by Coach Keri Watkins-Webb. Participants will receive education, practical strategies, daily accountability and support from others working toward the same goal. Join the free Challenge: https://www.skool.com/six-weeks-to-fitness-w-vince-6247/about LEARN MORE ABOUT SIBYLLA NASH Website: https://sibyllanash.com Instagram: @sibylla_writes_stuff GET MORE LIFE TO YOUR YEARS Get the book More Life to Your Years: https://payhip.com/b/3EdMl Join the free Six Weeks to Fitness community: https://www.skool.com/six-weeks-to-fitness-w-vince-6247/about Hosted by Vincent Ferguson, U.S. Navy veteran, certified wellness coach, author and host of the Six Weeks to Fitness Podcast. Add more life to your years—not just years to your life.

Fitness advice changes as you gain more experience, coach more people and realise that a lot of things aren't as black and white as they first seemed. In this episode, I break down eight fitness beliefs I've changed my mind about, including aggressive fat loss, using cardio for weight loss, training to failure, IIFYM, tracking macros and over-optimising your workout routine.  

When most people hear “intermittent fasting,” they immediately think about skipping breakfast, eating within an 8-hour window or going extended periods without food.But Intermittent Modified Fasting is something very different.On this episode of the Chasing Clarity Health & Fitness Podcast, I'm joined once again by Lyle McDonald to break down the framework behind his newest book, Intermittent Modified Fasting. This is the first interview Lyle has done since releasing the book. Rather than treating IMF as another fasting protocol, Lyle has brought together concepts from decades of his work on rapid fat loss, calorie cycling, training, body composition and sports nutrition to create a system for strategically distributing energy restriction across the week.And that creates a much more interesting question than simply asking whether fasting “works.”Can we manipulate where we place our calorie deficit to lose fat while better supporting training performance, recovery and lean mass retention?Throughout this conversation, Lyle and I each give our perspectives on how these concepts can be applied in both physique-focused clients and athletes.IN THIS EPISODE WE COVER:WHAT INTERMITTENT MODIFIED FASTING (IMF) IS & WHY LYLE DEVELOPED ITWHETHER INTERMITTENT FASTING HAS UNIQUE METABOLIC OR FAT-LOSS BENEFITSWHY INCREASED FAT OXIDATION DURING A FAST DOESN'T AUTOMATICALLY MEAN GREATER BODY FAT LOSS IMF AS A FORM OF CALORIE CYCLING & NUTRITIONAL PERIODIZATIONHOW TO SYNCHRONIZE CALORIE & CARBOHYDRATE INTAKE WITH TRAINING DEMANDSRFL DAYS VS MAINTENANCE DAYSBALANCING AGGRESSIVE FAT LOSS WITH TRAINING PERFORMANCE, RECOVERY & MUSCLE RETENTIONHOW IMF CAN BE MODIFIED FOR STRENGTH, ENDURANCE & PERFORMANCE ATHLETESHOW TO CREATE THE LARGEST PRODUCTIVE DEFICIT WITHOUT COMPROMISING THE ATHLETE'S PRIMARY PERFORMANCE GOALThe biggest theme throughout this episode is that the goal isn't simply to create the largest calorie deficit possible.The goal is to intelligently distribute that deficit in a way that allows us to achieve the desired rate of fat loss while preserving the things we don't want to sacrifice in the process.If you're interested in fat loss, physique development, sports nutrition or understanding how to better periodize nutrition around training, this episode is for you.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG:https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services:https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail:Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comLYLE'S NEWEST BOOKS: https://store.bodyrecomposition.comcode: larrywon20% off until Oct 7

Antoinette Berrafato is a U.S. Army veteran and former Air Assault medic with 11 years of service.After a traumatic brain injury, spinal damage, and PTSD left her relying on a walker, service dog, and full-time caregiver, she rebuilt her life as a sponsored adventure athlete. Antoinette now shares her step-by-step recovery framework as the ‘Take Back Your Health From Chronic Illness' movement with audiences worldwide.She hosts the New Normal Big Life Podcast, named a Top 10 Health & Fitness Podcast by PodMatch, and is the health and wellness columnist at Culturs Magazine, reaching 1.5 million readers in over 200 countries.Off the mic, Antoinette enjoys life in the Midwestern Northwoods with her family, tending their river homestead, and pursuing adventure sports.

Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.comThis week on Mikkipedia Mikki is joined by Brandon DaCruz, host of the Chasing Clarity podcast, for the first episode in a new collaborative series bringing together their perspectives on nutrition, fat loss and body composition.They kick things off with a deep dive into rapid fat loss and protein-sparing modified fasting, starting with what a PSMF actually is and how each of them defines rapid fat loss in practice.Mikki and Brandon explore the potential benefits of taking a more aggressive approach to fat loss, alongside the physiological, psychological and behavioural drawbacks that need to be considered.They also get into how these strategies look with real clients. Brandon shares how he uses rapid fat-loss days, deficit deloads and high-carbohydrate refeeds, while Mikki explains how PSMF days and structured diet breaks are incorporated into Mondays Matter.Finally, they discuss who rapid fat-loss strategies are not appropriate for, including circumstances where hormonal health, energy availability, training demands or physique goals mean a more conservative approach is warranted.It's a practical and nuanced discussion about when rapid fat loss can be a useful tool, when it can become counterproductive, and why context matters far more than simply labelling an approach as good or bad.Brandon DaCruz at his website https://www.brandondacruzfit.com/, and on Instagram @brandondacruz_Chasing Clarity https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chasing-clarity-health-fitness-podcast/id1619611966 Brandon DaCruz is an online nutrition and physique coach, accredited nutritionist, functional nutrition and metabolism specialist, and health and fitness educator with over 16 years of coaching experience.Throughout his career, Brandon has helped more than 1,200 clients ranging from Olympia-level physique competitors and competitive athletes to business owners, executives, and lifestyle clients improve their body composition, optimize performance, and enhance their overall health. His coaching philosophy is rooted in an evidence-informed approach that combines the best available research with real-world coaching experience gained from working directly with clients in the trenches for over a decade and a half.Brandon has been featured in leading industry publications including Men's Fitness Magazine, Muscular Development, Bodybuilding.com, and the Alan Aragon Research Review, where he served as a contributing author.Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into practical, actionable strategies, Brandon specializes in helping clients lose body fat, build muscle, improve metabolic health, and create sustainable long-term results without relying on extremes or quick fixes.Brandon is also the host of the Chasing Clarity Health & Fitness Podcast, a show ranked in the top 5% of all podcasts on Spotify. Through both solo episodes and conversations with many of the industry's leading researchers, and educators, the podcast aims to bridge the gap between complexity and clarity in health, fitness, nutrition, and physique development. Each episode is designed to empower listeners through education and provide the tools needed to make informed decisions about their health and physique goals.https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/270https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/226 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/300 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/368 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/416 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/422 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/458  Curranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz  or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzContact Mikki:https://mikkiwilliden.com/https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutritionhttps://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden

Joint pain after 50 doesn't have to control how you move, exercise, or enjoy your life. In this episode of the Six Weeks to Fitness Podcast, Healthspan Coach Vince Ferguson shares three simple daily habits that can help support joint comfort, improve mobility, and keep you active as you age. You'll learn why regular movement matters for healthy joints, how hydration supports mobility, and how nutrition can play a role in managing inflammation. Vince also explains why small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference in maintaining your strength and independence after 50. If you're dealing with knee pain, hip discomfort, stiffness, or simply want to protect your mobility as you get older, this episode will give you practical strategies you can begin incorporating into your daily routine. Six Weeks to Fitness — helping adults over 40 add more life to their years.

My recent appearance with Eric Malzone on the Future of Fitness Podcast. You can subscribe to his show here https://futureoffitness.co/episodes ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Brian Keane has built a fitness empire that most coaches only dream about — four bestselling books, over 580 podcast episodes, a top 0.5% global podcast, and more than a thousand coaches trained through his mentorship programs. But before any of that, he was a primary school teacher who realized twenty minutes into his first day that he'd climbed the wrong ladder entirely. In this conversation, Brian breaks down exactly how fitness entrepreneurs, gym owners, and online coaches can stay relevant — and even thrive — as tools like ChatGPT and Claude start answering the same questions clients used to pay for. He walks through his SCALE framework for building an unshakeable personal brand, why chasing universal likability is killing more coaching businesses than AI ever will, and the wild story of how a plane ride home from an ayahuasca retreat turned into a 16-hour writing session that became his most recent book. Key Takeaways:

Hey, Brad Kearns here with some thoughts from my morning walk about the foundation of any excellent, well-rounded fitness program for peak performance, vitality, fat loss, and longevity. Did you know half of regular runners get an overuse injury every year, and 25% of regular runners are injured at any given time? In this episode, I explain why the modern endurance running approach is deeply flawed, why walking provides an excellent aerobic conditioning effect with minimal impact load or injury risk, and why it should be the foundation from which you launch your more ambitious fitness activities. I also share why resistance training is the missing link for many people, including Dr. Doug McGuff's “Big Five” workout, and why true sprinting—not long HIIT sessions—is the single best workout ever known to mankind in terms of return on investment for reducing excess body fat, promoting overall functional fitness, and supporting longevity. Research reveals that anaerobic muscle fibers decline at a rate of around 40% per decade without intervention, compared to roughly 10% for the aerobic system. That's why we have a critical obligation for longevity to hone the anaerobic system with brief, explosive maximum efforts. The three fitness laws are simple: move frequently at a slow pace, lift heavy things, and sprint once in a while. That is the winning ticket for true fitness, weight loss, and longevity. TIMESTAMPS: Brad emphasizes the importance of walking as an activity from which to launch your more ambitious fitness activities. [01:51] Steady state cardiovascular exercise and other extreme endurance exercises often create injuries. [03:01] Sprinting is the single best workout known to mankind! It's all about quality, explosiveness, power, lots of rest in between. [08:30] LINKS: Brad Kearns.com BradNutrition.com B.rad Whey Protein Superfuel - The Best Protein on The Planet! Brad’s Shopping Page BornToWalkBook.com B.rad Podcast – All Episodes Peluva Five-Toe Minimalist Shoes B.rad Podcast – All Episodes Peluva Five-Toe Minimalist Shoes The Primal Blueprint Body by Science We appreciate all feedback, and questions for Q&A shows, emailed to podcast@bradventures.com. If you have a moment, please share an episode you like with a quick text message, or leave a review on your podcast app. Thank you! Check out each of these companies because they are absolutely awesome or they wouldn’t occupy this revered space. Seriously, I won’t promote anything that I don't absolutely love and use in daily life: B.rad Nutrition: Premium quality, all-natural supplements for peak performance, recovery, and longevity; including the world's highest quality whey protein! Get 20% OFF your first order! Peluva: Comfortable, functional, stylish five-toe minimalist shoe to reawaken optimal foot function. Use code BRADPODCAST for 15% off! Jaspr Air Scrubber: Ultra high-performance air purifier - blows other air filters away! Save $200 on your unit with code BRAD. Get Stride: Advanced DNA, methylation profile, microbiome & blood at-home testing. Hit your stride the right way, with cutting-edge technology and customized programming. Save 10% with the code BRAD. Online educational courses: Numerous great offerings for an immersive home-study educational experience Primal Fitness Expert Certification: The most comprehensive online course on all aspects of traditional fitness programming and a total immersion fitness lifestyle. Save 25% on tuition with code BRAD! #bradpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, Coach Allan breaks down the fight playing out right now in Washington, DC, between GLP-1 medications and peptides. The two keep getting mentioned in the same breath, but they sit on opposite sides of the evidence line. GLP-1s like semaglutide and tirzepatide are tested medications with known dosing and documented side effects. Peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500, the so-called Wolverine stack, are not approved for human use and live in a gray market built mostly on rat studies and anecdote.  Coach Allan walks through the recent FDA Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee panel that recommended approving 6 of 7 peptides even after the agency's own scientists raised safety concerns, and he points out what it means for you. Time Stamps: 02:54 GLP-1s and peptides, framing the fight 04:26 Peptides and the gray market 05:20 The cheating debate around weight-loss drugs 06:07 The peptides: AOD-9604, BPC-157, TB-500 07:00 Branding and hype: the Wolverine stack 08:50 How both sides market GLP-1s and peptides 09:54 RFK Jr. and what the FDA is for 11:04 Follow the science, not the phrases 12:57 Off-label prescribing and thin peptide data 14:34 Gray market and inconsistent manufacturing 15:47 The FDA compounding panel meets 16:32 FDA scientists warn against approval 17:43 The panel's conflict of interest and 6-of-7 recommendation 19:50 The Joe Rogan ivermectin parallel 22:20 Peptides, cancer risk, and personal caution 23:11 The N=1 experiment and its limits 26:33 Making the decision that's right for you   Links - Work with Allan one-on-one (a few coaching slots are open right now): coach@40plusfitness.com - 40+ Fitness: https://40plusfitness.com

Most women have been told that building muscle and losing fat at the same time is nearly impossible, and that the best they can do is pick one goal and grind toward it.But here's what the research and years of real-world coaching actually reveal: women may be some of the best-positioned people on the planet to recomp. In fact, under most real-world coaching conditions, women may have a genuine advantage over men when it comes to building muscle and losing fat simultaneously.In this episode of the CHASING CLARITY HEALTH & FITNESS PODCAST, I'm joined again by Jeff Hoehn, host of the Mind Muscle Connection Podcast, for a deep dive into the physiology and the practical realities behind why women are so uniquely built to recompose their bodies. This is a conversation that reframes what most women have been taught about their own potential, and gives coaches a clearer lens for how to program for their female clients.WE GET INTO: WHY WOMEN MAY ACTUALLY HAVE A RECOMP ADVANTAGE OVER MEN HOW HIGHER BODY FAT LEVELS BECOME A PHYSIOLOGICAL ASSET FOR BUILDING MUSCLE IN A DEFICIT THE GREATER LEAN MASS SPARING WOMEN EXPERIENCE WHILE DIETING (AND THE HEYMSFIELD DATA BEHIND IT) ESTROGEN'S PROTECTIVE EFFECTS ON RECOVERY, MUSCLE PRESERVATION & NUTRIENT PARTITIONING THE SUBSTRATE UTILIZATION DIFFERENCES THAT HELP WOMEN SPARE PROTEIN & PRESERVE MUSCLE WHY SO MANY WOMEN ARE PRIMED FOR DRAMATIC RECOMP THE MOMENT THEIR TRAINING & NUTRITION ARE FINALLY STRUCTURED CORRECTLY THE “PERFECT STORM” THAT HAPPENS WHEN YEARS OF UNDER-FUELING & CARDIO-FOCUSED TRAINING GET REPLACED WITH THE RIGHT INPUTSIf you've ever felt like your body wasn't responding no matter how hard you dieted or how much cardio you did, this episode will help you understand why, and what actually needs to change for your body to start building muscle and shedding fat at the same time.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDS https://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

Every once in a while you meet someone in this industry who's building something for the same reasons you are. That's what this episode is about. On this week's episode of the CHASING CLARITY HEALTH & FITNESS PODCAST, I'm doing something a little different. This is a collab with Sarah Parker, host of the Beyond Condition Podcast, where we bring our two audiences together, introduce ourselves to each other's worlds, and get into what years behind the mic have actually taught us.We each walk through why and how we started our shows, the lessons podcasting has taught us about ourselves, and the biggest takeaways we've pulled from sitting across from some of the sharpest minds in the fitness space.HERE'S WHAT WE COVER: WHY AND HOW WE EACH STARTED OUR PODCASTS HOW EMBRACING A FEAR BECAME A CATALYST FOR GROWTH THE COMPOUNDING EFFECT OF SHOWING UP CONSISTENTLY OVER YEARS WHAT DR. SCOTT STEVENSON TAUGHT ME ABOUT FAILURE, PROGRESSIVE OVERLOAD & LIFE THE GUESTS & CONVERSATIONS THAT SHAPED HOW WE BOTH COACHIf you've ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of building a podcast, or you want to hear the lessons that don't make it into the episodes themselves, this one's for you.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME: Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/ For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiry Email: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.com My Reading Recommendations: THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDS https://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

LOF wants to hear from you!In this episode of Lof Office Hours, Coach Mike is joined by Dr. Eric Fete to discuss the medical future of Lifestyle Of Fitness and the role of medically informed coaching in long-term transformation.As LOF moves through its 15th anniversary transformation series, Mike and Dr. Eric explore the growing interest in peptides, hormones, testosterone, lab work, recovery, longevity, and performance.But instead of starting with the newest hack, this conversation brings the focus back to the foundation.Sleep.Stress.Nutrition.Exercise.Circadian rhythm.Nature.Community.Spirituality.Habits.Awareness.Dr. Eric explains why peptides and hormones may have a role for some people, but should not be treated as a shortcut, a trend, or a one-size-fits-all solution. He also discusses the importance of qualified medical guidance, appropriate lab work, pharmaceutical-grade sourcing, and understanding the full person before deciding which tools make sense.Inside this episode, we cover:Why Peptides And Hormones Are Not The FoundationWhy Sleep, Stress, Nutrition, And Exercise Still Matter MostWhy There Is No Cookie-Cutter ProtocolWhy Symptoms, Goals, History, And Context MatterHow Lab Work Should Be Used ThoughtfullyWhy Pharmaceutical-Grade Sourcing MattersWhy Research Peptides Can Be RiskyHow Circadian Rhythm And Morning Light Impact HealthWhy Seasonal Patterns May Influence Training And RecoveryHow Technology, Screens, And Dopamine Loops Affect BehaviorWhy Routines Eventually Become HabitsWhy Bandwidth May Matter More Than TimeHow Small Daily Actions Create Long-Term TransformationThis episode is educational only and is not personal medical advice. Always consult a qualified medical provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication, hormone therapy, peptide, supplement, or medical treatment.

Music by Pearl Jam - "Alive" 

Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.comCurranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz  or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours NZ listeners - save 10% off Calocurb by using the code Mikkipedia10 at www.calocurb.co.nzThis week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to fan favourite Brandon DaCruz — coach, educator, and one of the sharpest minds in physique and performance nutrition about body recomposition. While many people think of recomp purely as losing fat and gaining muscle at the same time, Brandon breaks down the three different forms it can take, and why the common claim that you cannot build muscle and lose fat simultaneously is based on an overly simplistic view of calories in, calories out.They also dive into why women may actually be better positioned for recomp than many people assume, the physiology behind this, and what Brandon sees in practice with his clients. Mikki and Brandon unpack the nutrition and training fundamentals that need to be in place, including protein intake, progressive training, and the common mistakes that stop women from seeing meaningful changes in body composition.Brandon DaCruz at his website https://www.brandondacruzfit.com/, and on Instagram @brandondacruz_Chasing Clarity https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chasing-clarity-health-fitness-podcast/id1619611966 Brandon DaCruz is an online nutrition and physique coach, accredited nutritionist, functional nutrition and metabolism specialist, and health and fitness educator with over 16 years of coaching experience.Throughout his career, Brandon has helped more than 1,200 clients ranging from Olympia-level physique competitors and competitive athletes to business owners, executives, and lifestyle clients improve their body composition, optimize performance, and enhance their overall health. His coaching philosophy is rooted in an evidence-informed approach that combines the best available research with real-world coaching experience gained from working directly with clients in the trenches for over a decade and a half.Brandon has been featured in leading industry publications including Men's Fitness Magazine, Muscular Development, Bodybuilding.com, and the Alan Aragon Research Review, where he served as a contributing author.Known for his ability to translate complex scientific concepts into practical, actionable strategies, Brandon specializes in helping clients lose body fat, build muscle, improve metabolic health, and create sustainable long-term results without relying on extremes or quick fixes.Brandon is also the host of the Chasing Clarity Health & Fitness Podcast, a show ranked in the top 5% of all podcasts on Spotify. Through both solo episodes and conversations with many of the industry's leading researchers, and educators, the podcast aims to bridge the gap between complexity and clarity in health, fitness, nutrition, and physique development. Each episode is designed to empower listeners through education and provide the tools needed to make informed decisions about their health and physique goals.https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/270https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/226 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/300 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/368 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/416 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/422 https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/458  Contact Mikki:https://mikkiwilliden.com/https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutritionhttps://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden

Can you really build muscle from home, or is a gym membership essential? In this Q&A episode, I answer 10 of the most common questions about building muscle at home, including whether bodyweight exercises and resistance bands are enough, the minimum equipment you need, how to progressively overload without heavy weights, and when joining a gym actually becomes worthwhile.  

Body recomposition is one of the most contested concepts in physique development — and one of the most misunderstood.The traditional dogma says you have to pick a lane. You're either bulking or you're cutting. You can't gain muscle in a deficit. And once you're past the beginner stage, recomp isn't on the table.But the research over the past several years has made it increasingly clear that this framing is an oversimplification of how energy balance actually translates to body composition. And there are specific levers that, when pulled correctly together, can drive recomp outcomes in trained individuals who've spent years thinking it wasn't possible for them.On this week's episode of the CHASING CLARITY HEALTH & FITNESS PODCAST, I'm following up on my recent conversation with Dr. Eric Helms with a solo deep-dive into the two topics we didn't get to cover — the most recent body recomp research published this year, and the three primary levers I pull with my clients to actually drive recomp outcomes in the real world.This episode is for:Trained lifters who've been told recomp is no longer on the tableCoaches who want a clear framework for programming recomp phasesAnyone stuck between cutting and bulking and ready to try a different approachListeners who heard the Helms episode and want the practical playbookHERE'S WHAT WE COVER:A FOUNDATIONAL RECAP OF WHAT BODY RECOMP IS & THE 3 FORMS IT CAN TAKEA DEEP DIVE INTO THE LATEST RECOMP STUDY BY VARGAS-MOLINA ET AL. 2025LEVER 1: DEFICIT SIZE & WHY SMALLER DEFICITS BEAT AGGRESSIVE ONES FOR RECOMPLEVER 2: PROTEIN INTAKE & THE TIERED APPROACH I USE BASED ON BODY FAT LEVELLEVER 3: TRAINING DOSE & THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORKING OUT VS. TRAININGWHY MOST LIFTERS HAVE NEVER TRULY TRAINED CLOSE ENOUGH TO FAILURE TO DRIVE RECOMPHOW TO PULL ALL THREE LEVERS IN ALIGNMENT TO MAKE RECOMP HAPPENThis is the practical follow-up to the Helms conversation — the actionable playbook for anyone who wants to take their recomp efforts seriously.If you've been spinning your wheels between cutting and bulking without making the progress you want, this episode will give you the clarity you've been missing.

Sometimes the greatest transformations don't begin with a workout plan or a new diet.They begin with surviving your darkest day.In this episode, I'm joined by Kyle Fry, who shares an incredibly honest conversation about living through chronic pain, surviving suicidal thoughts, rebuilding his life after multiple back surgeries, and ultimately losing more than 75 pounds by changing far more than his body.Together, we explore how mindset, personal responsibility, supportive relationships, and daily action helped Kyle move from simply surviving to creating a life he genuinely enjoys living.In this episode, we discuss:• Kyle's battle with chronic pain and multiple back surgeries• The day he nearly lost his life to suicide• How one unexpected moment changed everything• The mental and emotional side of long-term weight gain• Why rock bottom became the turning point in his journey• Losing more than 75 pounds through sustainable lifestyle changes• Food addiction, habits, and rebuilding a healthier relationship with yourself• The importance of surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to see you succeed• Why small, consistent goals often lead to the biggest transformations• Making peace with your past without allowing it to define your futureThis conversation goes far beyond weight loss. It's about resilience, choosing hope during incredibly difficult seasons of life, and recognizing that lasting change begins long before you see it reflected on the scale.Whether you're navigating your own health journey, struggling with your mental health, or simply looking for encouragement to take the next step, I believe you'll find something meaningful in Kyle's story.Connect with Kyle FryTikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@kilofree86Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/kilofree86Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/kyle.fry.9210Mental Health ResourcesIf you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis, please know that help is available.United States & Canada988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineCall or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor 24 hours a day.https://988lifeline.orgIf you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.You are not alone. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and support is available.

LOF wants to hear from you!This episode begins the LOF 15th Anniversary Transformation Series.Coach Mike shares the story of how he went from a 16-year-old, 230-pound kid who was cut from his varsity baseball team to becoming a professional athlete, strength coach, business owner, and founder of Life Of A Fighter and Lifestyle Of Fitness.What started as a personal blog and media company in September 2011 has evolved over the last 15 years into a coaching, health, wellness, and performance company that has helped transform tens of thousands of lives.Inside this episode, Mike breaks down:How Getting Cut From Varsity Baseball Sparked His First Major TransformationWhy Pain, Discomfort, And Heartbreak Often Begin The Transformation ProcessHow He Lost Weight, Found Strength Training, And Learned The Importance Of SystemsHow Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu And Fighting Gave Him PurposeHow Life Of A Fighter Started As A Media CompanyHow Lof Evolved Into A Health, Fitness, Coaching, And Medically Informed Lifestyle CompanyThe Framework Behind Lasting Transformation: Awareness, Intention, Action, And AccountabilityThe Difference Between Looking Transformed And Building A Sustainable SystemThe 15th Anniversary Celebration And Transformation GiveawayWhat Is Coming Next In The Lof Transformation SeriesTo celebrate 15 years of Life Of A Fighter, LOF will be giving away close to $15,000 in prizes, including a legacy client transformation prize and a 100-day coaching transformation package for a new participant.Need coaching, structure, and accountability? Start here!Shop the tools, bands, books, recovery products, and wellness resources Coach Mike uses here!

Life rarely unfolds exactly the way we expect.In this episode of The Your Level Fitness Podcast, I'm joined by Bill Streetman for a conversation about identity, resilience, adapting to change, and learning to move forward when life takes an unexpected turn.While many people know Bill through his remarkable weight loss journey, this conversation goes much deeper. We explore how major life events can reshape our identity, why flexibility often matters more than having the perfect plan, and how trusting yourself becomes one of the most important skills you can develop.Bill shares the story of having a non-cancerous tumor removed from his carotid artery, the unexpected complications that followed, and how losing his voice forced him to redefine not only how he communicated with others, but how he viewed himself. Rather than allowing that challenge to become the end of his story, he found a new way to continue speaking, teaching, and encouraging others.Throughout our conversation, we discuss what it means to adapt when life changes, why proper planning and flexibility go hand in hand, and how our body, mind, and spirit all influence our ability to navigate difficult seasons.In this episode, we discuss:• Why identity is constantly evolving throughout life• The importance of adapting instead of resisting change• What Bill learned after losing his voice• Why flexibility often matters more than having the perfect plan• How body, mind, and spirit work together• Building confidence by trusting yourself to overcome challenges• Why your "why" should be personal instead of borrowed from someone else• Learning to adjust without giving up on your goals• The difference between planning and expecting everything to go perfectly• Why you're capable of more than you thinkIf you've ever felt like life forced you to change direction, I hope this conversation reminds you that your circumstances don't have to define your future. Sometimes the greatest growth comes from learning to adapt while continuing to move toward the life you want to build.Connect with Bill Streetman on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bill.streetmanPurchase Bill's book:https://a.co/d/ivdughVThank you for listening to The Your Level Fitness Podcast. If this conversation encouraged you, please consider following the podcast and sharing this episode with someone who may need the reminder that it's never too late to adapt, grow, and keep moving forward.

Music by: The Jimi Hendrix Experience - "Vodoo Child" (Slight Return) 

What if the one thing you've been overlooking is the thing that could change someone else's life?In this episode of the BKO: Power of Fitness Podcast, I dive into what it truly means to know your worth. We live in a world that tells us our value comes from money, status, followers, or success—but I believe your greatest value comes from your character, your experiences, and the story only you can tell.I share personal lessons from my own journey, including building a business from the ground up, overcoming adversity, surrounding myself with people who raise the standard, and why your struggles aren't meant to stay hidden—they're meant to become someone else's roadmap.If you've ever questioned your purpose, doubted yourself, or wondered if your story even matters, this episode is for you.Your story has value.Your experiences have power.Someone out there needs to hear them.

Body recomposition — the process of building muscle and losing fat simultaneously — is one of the most contested concepts in the entire fitness industry.The traditional dogma says you have to pick a lane. You're either bulking or you're cutting. You can't gain muscle in a deficit. And once you're past the beginner stage, recomp isn't on the table.But that framing is built on an oversimplification of how energy balance actually translates to body composition. And the research over the last several years has made that increasingly clear.On this week's episode of the CHASING CLARITY HEALTH & FITNESS PODCAST, I sat down with Dr. Eric Helms — competitive natural pro bodybuilder, founder of the MASS Research Review, co-author of the Muscle and Strength Pyramids, and one of the most respected researchers in the evidence-based community — to break down the science, the physiology, and the real-world coaching application of body recomposition.This episode is for:Trained lifters who've been told recomp is no longer on the tableFemale clients who've been spinning their wheels with cardio and over-restrictionCoaches who want to understand the research backing the recomp conversationAnyone tired of toggling between bulking and cutting without making real progressHERE'S WHAT WE COVER:THE THREE FORMS OF BODY RECOMPOSITION & WHY MOST PEOPLE DEFINE IT TOO NARROWLYWHY THE “YOU MUST BE IN A SURPLUS TO GROW MUSCLE” DOGMA IS AN OVERSIMPLIFICATIONFAT LOSS AS AN ENERGY-DEPENDENT PROCESS VS. MUSCLE GAIN AS A SIGNALING-DEPENDENT PROCESSWHY TRAINED LIFTERS CAN STILL RECOMP ️ THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRAINING AGE AND TRAINING ADVANCEMENTHOW PRE-SHOW BODYBUILDERS EATING UP INTO A SHOW CAN PRODUCE DRAMATIC RECOMP OUTCOMESWHY WOMEN MAY ACTUALLY HAVE A PHYSIOLOGICAL ADVANTAGE OVER MEN WHEN IT COMES TO RECOMPOSITIONWHAT ENHANCED ATHLETES TELL US ABOUT THE NATURAL LIFTER'S PHYSIOLOGICAL CEILINGTHE MINDSET PIECE THAT DETERMINES WHETHER EVERY OTHER VARIABLE ACTUALLY WORKSThis is one of the most thorough conversations on body recomposition we've done on the show  bridging cutting-edge research with real-world coaching application.If you've been stuck spinning your wheels, this episode will bring the clarity you've been missing.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDShttps://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

Jeremy returns to the Your Level Fitness Podcast to share what's happened since our last conversation, and the progress is remarkable.In just a few months, Jeremy has gone from building consistency in the gym to running over 100 miles in a month, preparing for a marathon, and setting his sights on an ultra marathon. But this conversation isn't just about running. It's about momentum, discipline, self-belief, and learning to remove the limits we often place on ourselves.We discuss how his daily routine has evolved, why taking care of your mental health comes before anything else, the importance of adjusting your nutrition and recovery as your goals change, and why sustainable progress comes from showing up day after day. Whether you're working toward your first workout, your first 5K, or your biggest goal yet, this episode is a reminder that your potential is often greater than you think.In this episode, we discuss:• How Jeremy built an unbreakable daily routine• Why momentum can completely change your fitness journey• The connection between mental health and physical health• Knowing when to adjust your nutrition as your activity increases• Why removing self-imposed limits opens the door to new possibilities• Building discipline through small daily actions• Looking ahead to marathon and ultra marathon goalsFollow Jeremy on TikTok for more updates on his fitness journey and daily motivation:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremygrap22Thank you for listening to the Your Level Fitness Podcast. If this conversation encouraged you to take one more step toward your forever active lifestyle, be sure to subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and come back next time as we continue exploring the mindset, habits, and actions that help you learn to appreciate yourself from the inside/out while building a lifestyle you'll actually want to stick with.

Today on The Your Level Fitness Podcast, I'm joined once again by Kevyn J for a conversation that goes far beyond weight loss.We discuss Kevyn's nearly 10-year wellness journey, including his experience using a GLP-1 medication as one tool to improve his health, the importance of strength training, working alongside your healthcare team, and what it really means to pursue long-term wellness instead of chasing quick fixes.From there, the conversation naturally expands into men's mental health, emotional awareness, community, lifelong learning, artificial intelligence, social media, and why genuine human connection may be one of the most important parts of living a healthy life.Some of the topics we explore include:• Viewing GLP-1 medications as one tool within a broader wellness strategy.• Building strength, protecting muscle, and improving long-term quality of life.• The importance of finding healthcare professionals who truly partner with you.• Why men need safe spaces to talk openly about mental and emotional health.• Creating authentic community instead of relying solely on social media.• Lifelong learning, adapting to change, and embracing new technology without losing human creativity.• Finding common ground with others through fitness, music, conversation, and shared experiences.This episode is a reminder that wellness isn't just about changing your body. It's about building a life that allows you to stay active, stay curious, develop meaningful relationships, and continue growing into the person you want to become.A huge thank you to Kevyn for joining me again and for continuing to advocate for wellness, inclusion, and authentic connection.Follow Kevyn and continue the conversation:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kevyn_j/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@kevyn_j/If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to follow Kevyn on social media and stay connected with the positive work he's doing in the wellness and advocacy communities.

Body recomposition — the process of building muscle and losing fat at the same time — is one of the most contested and most misunderstood concepts in physique development.The conventional view is that recomp is reserved for two specific groups — beginners and individuals with excess body fat. And while those populations do see the most dramatic outcomes, that framing leaves out several other groups who can absolutely still recomp under the right conditions.On this week's episode of the CHASING CLARITY HEALTH & FITNESS PODCAST, I'm joined by Jeff Hoehn for Episode 5 of our monthly collaboration where we break down topics that bridge evidence-based research with real-world coaching application.In this conversation, we go deep on what body recomposition actually is, the three different forms it can take, and the five populations of individuals who can realistically expect to recomp when their training and nutrition are properly structured.HERE'S WHAT WE COVER:WHAT BODY RECOMPOSITION REALLY MEANS & WHY THE SCALE OFTEN MISLEADS YOU THE 3 FORMS OF BODY RECOMP & THE PHASES WHERE EACH ONE SHOWS UP FAT LOSS FOCUSED RECOMP, BUILDING FOCUSED RECOMP & SIMULTANEOUS FAT LOSS WITH MUSCLE GAIN WHY NEWBIES & INDIVIDUALS WITH EXCESS BODY FAT SEE THE MOST DRAMATIC RECOMP OUTCOMES THE MUSCLE MEMORY ADVANTAGE FOR DETRAINED INDIVIDUALS RETURNING TO TRAININGWHY TRAINED LIFTERS CAN STILL RECOMP & THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRAINING AGE & TRAINING ADVANCEMENT THE LATEST RESEARCH FROM VARGAS-MOLINA ET AL. ON RECOMP IN TRAINED INDIVIDUALS WHAT ENHANCED ATHLETES TELL US ABOUT THE NATURAL LIFTER'S PHYSIOLOGICAL CEILINGIf you've been spinning your wheels between cutting and bulking, or if you've ever wondered whether recomp is even possible for you — this episode will give you the clarity you've been missing.WHERE TO CONNECT WITH ME:Follow Brandon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/For Info on Brandon's Coaching Services: https://form.jotform.com/bdacruzfitness/coachinginquiryEmail: Bdacruzfitness@gmail.comMy Reading Recommendations:THE MUSCLE & STRENGTH PYRAMIDS https://getdpd.com/cart/hoplink/25469?referrer=1l54og96lf1ccw

Send us Fan MailBusy parents usually do not struggle with their health because they do not care.They struggle because most health plans assume they have predictable schedules, uninterrupted sleep, extra time, and perfect conditions.That is not real life.In this episode of Lof Office Hours, Coach Mike breaks down the Busy Parent Health System, a practical framework for staying consistent when work, children, sleep, travel, unexpected schedule changes, and family responsibilities pull you in every direction.Inside this episode, we cover:Why Parents Face Real Barriers, Not Just Motivation ProblemsHow To Identify What Repeatedly Knocks You Off TrackHow To Build A Minimum Floor For Movement, Food, And RecoveryWhy Every Parent Needs A Plan A, Plan B, And Plan CHow Short Bouts Of Movement Can Still Support ProgressHow To Create Backup Meals And Nutrition SystemsHow To Adapt Sleep And Recovery Routines Around Real LifeWhy Fun And Fulfillment Matter For HealthHow To Integrate Movement Into Family LifeHow To Use Protein, Produce, And PleasureHow To Design Your Environment For Better ChoicesHow To Return To The System After Life Disrupts The PlanThis episode is for parents, professionals, caregivers, business owners, and anyone who feels like their own health always receives whatever time and energy are left over.Need help building a realistic system around your life?Start here with us at Lifestyle of Fitness!

This week's episode is a little different.Instead of me asking the questions, I'm sitting in the guest seat as Rachel Davis turns the tables and interviews me on her podcast.We dive into my journey, the lessons I've learned through Organic Fitness, my approach to health and wellbeing, and some of the experiences that have shaped the work I do today.Rachel is a brilliant transformational coach, and this was a relaxed, honest conversation covering a wide range of topics around health, mindset, personal growth and living a more intentional life.I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation and thought it would be valuable to share it here with the Organic Fitness community.I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed recording it.Stay tuned, stay classy and keep it organic.Colman

The more hardcore and devoted you get to fitness, the more risk you bring that you might actually be doing things the wrong way and getting counterproductive results. In this episode, I break down 5 ways you may be screwing up your fitness goals—even if you’re consistent, disciplined, and training hard. We talk about why sleep, rest, recovery, and downtime are the foundation for everything else, why the body is a dynamic organism and not a machine you can program, and why you have to be careful about outsourcing your intuition to technology. I also dive into why VO2 max is overhyped, why zone 1 deserves more attention, how chronic cardio and narrow fitness goals can compromise longevity, and why so many people are missing the most important pieces of lifelong fitness: strength, power, and sprinting. In this episode, I reveal that the solution is simple: move frequently at a slow pace, lift regularly, and sprint occasionally. Whether you’re an athlete or someone focused on staying fit, strong, and capable throughout life, this episode will challenge how you think about training for true full-body functional fitness and longevity. LINKS: Brad Kearns.com BradNutrition.com - 20% OFF Your First Order! B.rad Superdrink – Hydrates 28% Faster than Water—Creatine-Charged Hydration for Next-Level Power, Focus, and Recovery NEW: B.rad Real Rad Gummies - Creatine + Nootropics for Focus, Motivation, Performance, and Recovery! B.rad Whey Protein Superfuel - The Best Protein on The Planet! Brad’s Shopping Page BornToWalkBook.com B.rad Podcast – All Episodes Peluva Five-Toe Minimalist Shoes - Save 10% We appreciate all feedback, and questions for Q&A shows, emailed to podcast@bradventures.com. If you have a moment, please share an episode you like with a quick text message, or leave a review on your podcast app. Thank you! Check out each of these companies because they are absolutely awesome or they wouldn’t occupy this revered space. Seriously, I won’t promote anything that I don't absolutely love and use in daily life: B.rad Nutrition: Premium quality, all-natural supplements for peak performance, recovery, and longevity; including the world's highest quality whey protein! Get 20% OFF your first order! Peluva: Comfortable, functional, stylish five-toe minimalist shoe to reawaken optimal foot function. Use code BRADPODCAST for 15% off! Jaspr Air Scrubber: Ultra high-performance air purifier - blows other air filters away! Save $200 on your unit with code BRAD. Get Stride: Advanced DNA, methylation profile, microbiome & blood at-home testing. Hit your stride the right way, with cutting-edge technology and customized programming. Save 10% with the code BRAD. Online educational courses: Numerous great offerings for an immersive home-study educational experience Primal Fitness Expert Certification: The most comprehensive online course on all aspects of traditional fitness programming and a total immersion fitness lifestyle. Save 25% on tuition with code BRAD! #bradpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On episode 751 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, Coach Allan sits down to discuss restarting a health and fitness regimen with Steve Kamb, the founder of Nerd Fitness. The conversation focused on how to create lasting change in health and fitness, especially for individuals over 40 facing the unpredictable realities of life. One concept discussed was the "back to normal fallacy"—the tendency to believe that perfect circumstances are just around the corner and that change will be easier then. A key theme that emerged was embracing failure as a normal, even necessary, part of progress, and recognizing that setbacks offer valuable lessons rather than defining personal worth. The discussion explored the PACT framework (Pause, Accept, Change, Try), offering a practical system for navigating obstacles and trying again with self-compassion and flexibility. Several points were raised, including the importance of setting realistic expectations, using strategies like "strategic half-assing" for sustainable progress, and learning to accept imperfections as part of a meaningful, successful journey. Time Stamps: 03:29 Introducing Steve Kamb of Nerd Fitness 09:19 Steve's fitness journey and insights 12:53 Learning from past mistakes 15:39 Writing and editing the book 17:54 Importance of Pausing and Reflecting 23:20 Trying a 30-day diet plan 25:02 High expectations and personal growth 29:03 Finding joy in healthy habits 31:43 Jody's Journey and Resilience 36:07 Kintsugi and life philosophy 38:22 Breaking my favorite mug 40:48 Strategically half-assing workouts https://howtotryagain.com  https://40plusfitness.com/stick 

On this episode of Coaching Call, Sifu Rafael welcomes Coach Allan Misner, health and fitness expert, author, podcast host, and coach dedicated to helping people live stronger, healthier lives after 40.With an impressive list of credentials, including Certified Personal Trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), Precision Nutrition Level II Master Health Coach, and Functional Aging Institute Certified Functional Aging Specialist, Allan has spent years helping individuals improve their health through practical, sustainable lifestyle changes.His expertise includes behavior change, corrective exercise, performance enhancement, fitness nutrition, and online personal training. Allan is also the host of the highly respected 40+ Fitness Podcast, one of the longest-running and most recognized health and fitness podcasts focused on helping adults thrive as they age. Through hundreds of interviews with leading experts, he has become a trusted source of evidence-based health and wellness information.Allan is the author of the award-winning book The Wellness Roadmap: A Straightforward Guide to Health and Fitness After 40, where he provides a clear and practical framework for improving health, fitness, and quality of life. Through his coaching programs, he continues to help people over 40 lose weight, build strength, increase energy, and create healthier futures.Join us for a valuable conversation about healthy aging, fitness, nutrition, mindset, behavior change, and the habits that lead to long-term success. Whether you're just beginning your wellness journey or looking to take your health to the next level, this episode is filled with practical insights you can use right away.Watch on YouTube and subscribe:https://www.youtube.com/@sifurafaeltv?sub_confirmation=1Sifu Rafael is a master instructor and the founder of Speaking Prowess, where he combines expertise in communication and leadership to help individuals unlock their full potential. As a professional speaker, solutions expert, and executive coach, Sifu Rafael leverages years of experience to guide clients toward their goals with clarity, purpose, and strategic insight.This episode is brought to you by Sifu's Mind Body Method, a lifestyle transformation that blends movement, mindset, nutrition, hydration, fasting, journaling, and faith. Learn more at sifumethod.comThat's where connecting with Sifu Rafael matters.Through Speaking Prowess and Sifu's Mind Body Method, Sifu Rafael helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts refine their message, command a room, and step onto more stages with clarity and confidence.If you know you're meant to speak, lead, and impact at a higher level, this conversation is your invitation.Visit sifurafael.com to connect, explore speaking opportunities, and start positioning yourself for more stages, stronger presence, and real influence.#coachingcall #sifurafael #healthyaging #fitnessover40 #wellness #nutrition #personalgrowth

Send us Fan MailMost people think healthy habits come down to discipline.But what if the real answer is better systems?In this episode of LOF Office Hours, Coach Mike sits down with Mikal “Dr. Mak” Giancola, DrPH, MPH, founder of Dr. Mak's Superfoods, to talk about public health, applied systems research, food environment, summer momentum, and how to make healthy choices easier in real life.Dr. Mak shares how his background in public health, chronic disease prevention, food systems, and entrepreneurship shaped the creation of Dr. Mak's Superfoods, including his overnight oats.Inside this episode, we cover:What public health actually isWhat makes DRPH different from a PHDHow systems thinking applies down to everyday healthWhy habits break down when routines are changedWhy food enviroment mattersHow meal prep protects bandwidthHow summer disrupts routines, sleep, food choices, and movementHow to reply less on willpower and more on structureWhy adding healthy habits can naturally crowd out unhealthy onesThis conversation is for busy parents, professionals, athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone trying to build a healthier lifestyle without starting over every few weeks.Get coaching, structure, and accountability here!Check out Dr. Mak's Superfoods here!Use code LOF during June for savings at checkout.

On episode 750 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, Coach Allan discusses motivation. The conversation focused on the deeply personal journey of navigating health setbacks, life changes, and the pursuit of lasting motivation. One concept discussed was the cycle many face when starting a fitness regimen, often quitting around the infamous "week three," and how this repeated loop is rarely due to laziness or lack of willpower. A key theme that emerged was the importance of building the right kind of accountability and support, whether through coaches, peers, or personal systems, in order to break free from this pattern. The discussion explored the "motivation map," a model designed to help listeners not only find motivation but make it durable (40plusfitness.com/stick), turning healthy actions into ingrained identity and permanent habits. Several points were raised, including the vital roles of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, the need for self-management, and the value of asking for help as a true sign of strength. Time Stamps: 03:15 Struggles managing family and business 08:03 Coaching background and experience 11:34 Breaking the three week loop 13:06 Introducing the motivation map 18:09 Reducing friction in workouts 19:57 Falling into bad habits 23:55 Motivation in group fitness classes 28:05 The strength in asking for help 30:13 Dealing with high blood pressure 33:39 Kidney cancer treatment journey 38:14 Making accountability work for you 40:44 Recognizing the need to quit 44:12 Evolving through coaching stages 46:26 Becoming a Serious Runner 49:32 Advancing to a higher running level 52:25 Building permanent motivation and identity Get the free Make It Stick Guide at 40plusfitness.com/stick.

Send us Fan MailSummer is when a lot of people lose momentum.The kids are out of school, routines change, vacations come up, BBQs happen, sleep gets disrupted, and suddenly the plan that worked in January does not fit real life anymore.In this LOF Office Hours episode, Coach Mike breaks down how to enjoy summer without falling off track.Inside this episode, you'll learn:why people lose consistency during the summerhow to avoid the “I'll restart Monday” cyclehow to use the 3 Ps: Protein, Produce, Pleasurehow to build a minimum effective dose for summerwhy structure creates freedomhow to travel, socialize, and enjoy food without guilthow to make health support your life instead of isolate you from itThis is not about restriction.This is about a sustainable structure.Get coaching, support, and your next step here!

What happens when a sharp, inquisitive 14-year-old interviewer starts asking questions most adults never think to ask?In this conversation with Rithvik Raya, Coach Alex dives deep into some of the biggest questions surrounding health, fitness, resilience, agency, suffering, faith, and human potential.Together they explore:Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and chronic painWhy modern abundance may be making us physically and mentally weakerThe science of adaptation and resilienceWhy "calories in, calories out" oversimplifies human biologyThe surprising science behind hope molecules and exerciseWhy coaching and community outperform diets and algorithmsThe role of agency in personal transformationWhat fitness has to do with faith, purpose, and stewardshipHow modern culture encourages victimhood—and how to reclaim responsibilityWhy intensity isn't always the answerThe difference between starting a fitness journey and becoming the kind of person who finishes itThis is one of the most thoughtful and wide-ranging conversations I've had in a long time. Rithvik asked questions that forced me to think carefully about what I actually believe and why.If you've ever wondered how fitness connects to psychology, theology, resilience, leadership, and the pursuit of a meaningful life, this conversation is for you.Life is hard.The question isn't whether you'll face difficulty.The question is:What kind of hard will you choose?⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction01:06 – Living With Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome05:15 – Why Modern Comfort May Be Making Us Weak08:42 – Choosing Your Hard10:40 – Childhood Trauma, Science & Finding Truth13:05 – Why Coach Alex Built Faithful Fitness16:45 – The Fitness Industry's Biggest Problem17:05 – Calories In, Calories Out? Not So Fast21:28 – Hope Molecules, Myokines & Exercise Science25:00 – What Is Agency?27:52 – Can Agency Survive the Algorithm Age?29:30 – Why Coaching & Community Beat Every Diet31:57 – The Science Behind SpyFit35:37 – Leadership, Responsibility & Personal Agency38:47 – Is Fitness Really About Intentional Living?40:02 – Is There A Moral Dimension To Fitness?45:32 – Pride, Gluttony, Shame & Stewardship48:21 – The Problem With Victimhood Culture50:38 – Why Intensity Is Overrated53:01 – How the Body Actually Adapts57:31 – Better Daily, Comparison & Following Christ01:01:12 – Social Media, Movement & Human Flourishing01:02:29 – Why People Really Get In Shape01:05:08 – Coaching, Identity & Freedom01:06:46 – Rapid Fire Round01:10:15 – Final Thoughts

On episode 749 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, we on the five essential keys to strength training for individuals over 40. Coach Allan explored why full-body workouts, progressive overload, training volume, consistency, and proper recovery are crucial for building and maintaining strength as we age. Several points were raised, including the importance of using compound movements, adjusting your workout routine to break through plateaus, and ensuring adequate protein intake for muscle repair and growth. Time Stamps: 04:41 #1 - Focus on full-body resistance training. 07:43 #2 - Your workouts need to be progressive. 13:15 #3 - Focus on volume. 18:54 #4 - Consistency. 21:35 #5 - We need recovery to get stronger. 29:50 Bonus - We need adequate protein. 34:18 Summary https://40plusfitness.com/summit https://40plusfitness.com/protein

Send us Fan MailMost people think transformation happens after the “before and after.”But the hardest part is actually the middle.In this LOF Office Hours episode, Michael Caulo sits down with Rosie to talk about:balancing fitness with parenthoodnavigating stress eatingsustainable weight lossmovement without perfectionadapting workouts to real lifebody image and mindsetemotional eating triggershow to stop the all-or-nothing cycleRosie shares her experience balancing:motherhoodbusiness ownershipchanging schedulesstressnutritionmovementmental healthThis conversation is for anyone who feels stuck in the middle of their own health journey.

Join us on the Ultimate Men's Health Summit at https://40plusfitness.com/summit.  On episode 748 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, we're joined by Funk Roberts—a former professional athlete, best-selling author, and global influencer known for helping men over 40 transform their health and fitness naturally. On this episode, we dive deep into the core challenges men face after 40, from loss of identity and declining testosterone, to smarter training strategies, optimal nutrition, recovery, and the importance of building a lasting lifestyle and legacy. Get ready for actionable insights and powerful stories that show it's never too late to reclaim your vitality, strengthen your body, and rediscover your purpose. Time Stamps: 05:54 Reflecting on identity after retirement 08:00 Discussing personal purpose and roles 11:22 Overcoming challenges with health programs 13:44 Improving testosterone through lifestyle changes 17:20 Traditional bodybuilding and recovery challenges 21:20 Home workout essentials and recovery 25:55 Understanding Carb and Energy Dynamics 28:43 Eating healthy while traveling 32:27 Morning stress-relief routine 33:13 Meditation and its benefits 38:41 Legacy and lifestyle changes 42:31 Discussing high quality protein and carbs 45:55 Eating healthy while traveling https://40plusfitness.com/summit

Send us Fan MailMost people lose weight and gain it back.Nick Chianese lost over 130 pounds while navigating real life:FatherhoodDivorceWork stressTravelInjuryHurricane HeleneRebuilding his lifeIn this episode of LOF Office Hours, Michael Caulo and Nick break down:Why most people regain weightHow accountability changes behaviorThe role stress plays in weight gainBalancing health with work and familyNutrition while travelingSustainable habits that actually workThe mindset shifts that helped Nick maintain long-term progressThis is not a “perfect transformation” story.It is a real conversation about consistency, setbacks, rebuilding momentum, and becoming the kind of person who keeps going.Need support with your own transformation?Start here: Lifestyle of FitnessShop the tools, supplements, and recovery products mentioned in this episode:Michael Caulo Amazon StorefrontSponsored by: BioLore Supplements

On episode 747 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, Coach Allan breaks down the five essential keys to successful weight loss. Whether you're looking to shed a few pounds, build strength, or simply create healthier habits, today's episode offers practical tips and real-world wisdom to guide you on your journey. From cultivating the right mindset and understanding your true motivations, to embracing mindful eating, prioritizing whole foods, and building resilience through adaptable planning, Coach Allan shares the foundational strategies that make lasting results possible. TIme Stamps: 02:28 Key #1 - Mindset 04:41 Key #2 - Awareness 07:32 Key #3 - Slow Down 10:22 Key #4 - Nutritional Density 13:33 Key #5 - Adaptable Plan 16:43 Summary 19:38 Bonus - Accountability   https://40plusfitness.com/summit  

  On episode 746 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, Coach Allan welcomes back Dr. Susan Peirce Thompson, New York Times best-selling author and founder of Bright Line Eating. In this episode, we dive into her latest book, "Maintain: Three Simple Shifts That Turn Temporary Weight Loss into Lasting Freedom." Weight loss is an incredible achievement, but as many of us know, maintaining that loss can be even more challenging. Dr. Peirce Thompson shares why shifting your identity and developing the right mindset and resources are crucial for sustaining weight loss. We'll explore the three key identity shifts—being devoted, becoming resourced, and allowing yourself to be liberated from the struggle with food—along with practical strategies and tools to help you stay on track for the long term. Time Stamps: 03:57 Comparing weight loss to romance 06:15 Discovering food addiction journey 11:39 Sticking to a defined diet 15:11 Supporting friends through tough times 16:10 Importance of setting boundaries 21:43 Struggles with weight and life issues 22:44 Finish line anxiety and weight maintenance 26:27 Planning for a successful day 29:38 Understanding internal family systems 33:22 Promoting the 14-day challenge https://brightlineeating.com       

On episode 744 of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, Coach Allan explores the concept of "The Two Futures" when it comes to your health and fitness. This episode is about empowering you to choose a path toward a more energetic, healthy, and fulfilling future. Coach Allan shares personal stories and practical guidance, helping you envision what you truly want out of your life if you knew you couldn't fail. We dig into how to keep the activities and relationships you love, stay true to yourself, and be present for the moments that matter most. Time Stamps: 03:22 Imagining a future without limits 08:52 Finding purpose beyond fear 09:50 Building bridges to personal growth 15:12 Discussing future health goals 19:02 Planning for memorable future events 22:41 Planning your ideal future 24:18 Motivational choices and opportunities