Wits & Weights | Evidence-Based Fitness & Nutrition for Lifters Over 40

Are you insecure about your body, your fitness, your health, what you eat, your work, the things you do, your life? Is chasing perfection holding you back?We feel like we're being judged all the time, and I wanted to talk about that today and open up about my own imperfections, my own insecurities and how embracing them has been key to my growth. And if you're ready to break free from your chain of perfectionism and start celebrating progress in a new way, listen to this one.In today's unscripted bonus episode, I share my honest thoughts on my own insecurities and the relentless pursuit of external validation, especially in our fitness journeys. Whether you are struggling with body image, fat loss, building muscle, hormones, menopause, aging, injury, or even your personal life (work, relationships, children, family, you name it), I hope this inspires you!A recent 1-star podcast review got me thinking about the delicate balance between letting constructive criticism stop you or fuel you.We dive into the essence of finding purpose in what you do and how continuous self-improvement will make you unstoppable. I share moments from my early career, demonstrating how embracing feedback, even when it's harsh, can propel personal growth. We uncover the power of taking messy action, pushing through setbacks, and reframing our achievements, no matter how small. We discuss the importance of community and accountability in fitness, and how to transform perceived failures into opportunities for growth.Tune in to this special bonus episode to discover how to love the process and celebrate every step of your fitness journey.To help others find the show and spread the message...🤩 Don't forget to leave a 5-star review here!💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

What are the common misconceptions about digestion and nutrient absorption? How does training sculpt your muscles, and what’s the hidden connection to your anatomy? Are you ready to discover the hidden dietary implications of your unique body variations? In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes Justin Cottle, a former lab director at the Institute of Human Anatomy and a pioneer in using real human cadavers for public education. He is a content creator and writer of the Dissection Room, where he shares his unique perspective on human anatomy, health, and fitness.Justin discusses the digestive system's structure and functions, nutrient absorption, and hormonal effects. He also sheds light on the interplay between anatomy and exercise physiology, muscle hypertrophy, bone density, and neuroplasticity. Justin brings a fresh and intriguing perspective to human anatomy. He skillfully blends practical know-how with science, empowering you to make informed health decisions. His insights challenge and reshape conventional thinking about our bodies and their potential and redefine your understanding of your capabilities.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:56 How Justin’s interest in anatomy developed6:30 Digestive system structure and functions10:57 Nutrient absorption and hormonal effects17:24 Diet recommendation for the average active human20:26 How to approach hormone issues23:32 Hype vs factual health information28:08 Gut microbiome, dietary fibers, and diversifying your diet32:05 Anatomical variations and dietary implications40:02 Muscle hypertrophy and training impacts44:05 Interplay between anatomy and exercise physiology52:30 Bone density and nutritional support56:00 Neuroplasticity and exercise58:40 The fascial system and injury rehab1:03:02 Where to find Justin1:03:25 OutroEpisode resources:Youtube: The Dissection RoomSubstack: The Dissection RoomInstagram: @realjustincottle💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Today, we're diving into the world of hypertrophy (that's science-speak for muscle growth) and uncovering one of the most powerful principles for packing on size: mechanical tension.Now, if you're a serious lifter or a student of the iron game, you've probably heard of Brad Schoenfeld. He's like the Yoda of muscle-building research, and his work has revolutionized our understanding of what it takes to optimize gains.One of the key concepts that Schoenfeld has championed is the idea that mechanical tension – the force that's generated when our muscles contract against resistance – is the primary driver of hypertrophy.But here's the thing: not all tension is created equal. To really maximize muscle growth, you need to be strategic about the way you apply that tension. And that's where Schoenfeld's research comes in.Learn about mechanical tension on today's Quick Wits!--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Do you know how your thyroid turbocharges your metabolism? What can throw your thyroid off balance, and how can you reclaim control? Are you ready to supercharge your thyroid with easy-to-adopt lifestyle shifts?In this solo episode, Philip (@witsandweights) explores the intricate world of thyroid health and its impact on metabolism. He discusses the thyroid’s functions and the symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and then identifies the root causes and triggers of thyroid dysfunction, providing a comprehensive understanding of this critical gland.Philip also shares practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting thyroid health, from lifestyle and nutrition adjustments to supplementation. Whether you’re battling hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, or hyperthyroidism, this episode will help move you in the direction of healing and optimizing your thyroid from the inside out.It's important to remember that the information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should NOT be considered medical advice. If you suspect an underlying medical or hormonal issue, it's always best to consult your doctor or medical practitioner. Tune in to discover how to boost your metabolism and get the body you deserve for your efforts. Don’t let your thyroid sabotage your health and fat-loss efforts any longer!Today, you’ll learn all about:4:00 What is the thyroid and its functions6:54 Symptoms of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism9:37 Identifying the root causes and triggers of thyroid dysfunction11:36 Lifestyle and nutrition adjustments to support your thyroid22:07 Supplements for thyroid support25:56 OutroEpisode resources:Get your FREE Heal Your Thyroid guideWatch this FREE video on how to setup MacroFactor and try MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTS💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Today, we're tackling a hot topic that's been causing quite a stir in the health and fitness world: seed oils. You know, those ubiquitous cooking oils like soybean, canola, and sunflower oil that seem to be in just about every processed food on the shelf.Now, if you've been following the latest diet trends, you might have heard some pretty scary claims about seed oils. Things like they're toxic, inflammatory, and even responsible for the rise in chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.But hold up, let's take a step back and look at what the actual evidence says. Despite the fearmongering, the truth is that there's no compelling scientific data showing that seed oils are inherently harmful to our health.So, if seed oils themselves aren't the problem, what's really going on here? Find out in today's Quick Wits!--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

This conversation is from my appearance on Sue Bush’s Physique Development Podcast.Sue invited me on HER podcast to talk about why diets fail, flexible dieting, misunderstood fitness terms, and more. I shared my best tips for making food logging easier, how tracking your food and lifting weights are forms of self-care, what metabolic adapation really is vs. what it’s not, and the MOST important thing for your health.Enjoy my conversation with Sue Bush on the Physique Development Podcast!Episode ResourcesPhysique Development Podcast with Sue Bush Ep 171: Big Butts, Strong Butts, We Love Them All! How to Train Your Glutes with Sue Bush💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Is big really beautiful? What's the connection between LDL and coronary disease? How can someone who looks healthy have high cholesterol? What's the key to optimal heart health?In this episode, Philip's (@witsandweights) special guest is Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro, a triple board-certified cardiologist, internal medicine specialist, and nuclear cardiologist. Dr. Di Pietro discusses the "Big Is Beautiful" movement, obesity, and heart health. She also discusses various topics, including monitoring health markers, understanding LDL and saturated fats, mental health, high cholesterol, weight loss, and more. She also shares best practices for nutrition and exercise.Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro graduated from Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychobiology at 19. She became the youngest graduate of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Di Pietro is passionate about educating the public about health, nutrition, and disease prevention. Her approach to healthcare is infectious positivity, and the rule she lives by is: BE NICE. Today, you’ll learn all about:0:00 Intro3:03 Debunking heart disease myths and the importance of preventative measures6:07 What health markers should be monitored7:32 The importance of understanding LDL in preventing coronary disease12:36 Threshold for saturated fats, and measuring inflammatory markers17:57 The significance of calcium scores and fiber21:56 Resistance training for heart health, especially for women23:41 How much walking affects cardiovascular health26:37 The impact of mental health on cardiovascular well-being29:01 Typical causes of high cholesterol in people who appear to be healthy30:26 Is big beautiful and/or healthy?36:06 Advice for someone struggling to lose weight41:54 Dr. Di Pietro’s "be nice" philosophy 44:18 Does genetically elevated LDL in perimenopause predispose you to higher cardiovascular risk?45:41 Testosterone and cardiovascular health concerns49:52 What question did Dr. Di Pietro wish Philip had asked54:29 Where to find Dr. Di Pietro55:01 OutroEpisode resources:Dr. Di Pietro's IG: @drtiffanydipietro and @dipietrohealth/ Website: DiPietroHealth.com 💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Today, I want to introduce you to my favorite tool for dialing in my nutrition and reaching my physique goals: MacroFactor.This app is a total game-changer when it comes to tracking your macros, monitoring your progress, and getting personalized recommendations to help you lose fat, build muscle, or maintain your results.I explain all the features and what separates MacroFactor from others like MyFitnessPal, Chronometer, RP, and Carbon. It's on a completely different playing field in its ability to adapt to you and your metabolism.Here's the FREE video mentioned in the episode:📺 How to Setup MacroFactor the First Time--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Do you feel stuck in a weight loss rut? Do you want to maximize fat loss without sacrificing muscle gains? Are you confused about whether partial reps are worth it or just a waste of time? Today, Philip (@witsandweights) answers questions from Jonathan and Matt sent to the Fanlist voice message inbox. They were curious about optimizing training and nutrition for fat loss and muscle growth. You’ll discover whether incorporating partial reps can effectively build more muscle mass and how to do so intelligently in your training routine. Additionally, Philip dives into the ideal amount and type of cardio to maximize fat loss without compromising your hard-earned gains. Plus, you’ll learn proven strategies for overcoming weight loss plateaus while preserving lean muscle tissue. If you’d like to have your question answered on a future episode and receive a shout-out, you can either leave a voice message in the Fanlist inbox or send a text message.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:28 What should I do to break through a weight loss plateau after losing 40 lbs since January? I'm 5'8", currently 220 lbs, lifting 4-5x/week and jogging 3-4x/week. Should I ditch cardio to have more time/energy for lifting? How much more weight is realistic to lose by August without losing muscle?18:22 What's your opinion on partial reps? Are they beneficial for muscle growth or a waste of time?31:43 OutroEpisode resources:Submit a voice message for the next Q&ARelated Episodes:Ep 170: How Fast Should You Lose Weight for Fat Loss?Ep 145: Bryan Boorstein on Failure Training, Intensity, Home Gyms, Specialization, and Cardio💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Today, we're diving into a topic that has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about weight loss and energy balance: the constrained model of energy expenditure, as proposed by evolutionary anthropologist Herman Pontzer.If you're like most people, you've probably heard the old adage that weight loss is simply a matter of "calories in, calories out." This idea, known as the additive model, suggests that our bodies burn energy in a linear fashion, and that by either reducing our calorie intake or increasing our energy expenditure through exercise, we can create a calorie deficit and lose weight.But what if this model is overly simplistic and doesn't actually reflect the complex realities of human physiology?This episode peels back the layers of metabolism and physical activity, as we examine the startling notion that our bodies aim to maintain THE SAME LEVEL of energy output, no matter how much we move.We'll explore why an uptick in exercise doesn't always translate to the expected calorie deficit and how our bodies compensate in surprising ways. Learn how to navigate this intricate dance of calories and master your physiological responses to achieve physical self-mastery.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Today we're answering a question about protein intake and supplementation. We'll cover the differences between protein sources, optimal timing, and what happens if you exceed your target intake.Veronica asked 5 sub-questions:Does every Whey Protein Isolate contain all essential amino acids?Are Essential Amino Acids supplements needed if one meets the daily protein intake from animal protein?Would plant protein have the same effect?Would it matter or would it be better if I take most my protein in my breakfast and dinner and not so high at lunch?What happens in the body if I go above the target protein intake? Will my body use it or store it? Can glycogen be converted to glucose?Get the answers in today's Weekend Q&A bonus episode.---This is a special Weekend Q&A edition of the Wits & Weights podcast, where we supercharge your Saturdays with an answer to one burning question so YOU can put it into action this weekend.These questions are taken from the Friday LIVE #AskPhilip thread in our free Wits & Weights Facebook community. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless amount of information and, let’s be honest, MISinformation online and just want a straight up answer without the jargon, that’s what this free service is for.With the LIVE Friday #AskPhilip thread, you can post a specific question relevant to your unique, individual situation that week and have it answered live by me on Friday. If you’d like to experience it yourself, I invite you to use the link in the show notes to join the Wits & Weights Facebook group. It’s totally free and you’ll quickly find out what a positive and supportive community it is.Join our FREE community here to get access to the #AskPhilip thread!💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Are you feeling overwhelmed with dieting struggles? Do you think you have the right mindset, but it doesn't seem to be working? Discover when mindset isn’t enough and the secret to supercharging it for your health goals.Today, Philip (@witsandweights) brings on Tanja Shaw, a seasoned Functional Health Coach, Kinesiologist, and weight loss expert dedicated to helping women overcome their struggles with food and achieve a healthy weight without obsession. Tanja owns Ascend Fitness + Lifestyle in Chilliwack, BC, and is the voice behind the popular Fit + Vibrant You Podcast. Philip invited Tanja to share a unique perspective on mindset: the idea that mindset is NOT everything. This challenges the popular belief that mindset is everything. They explore the limitations of the “mind over matter” approach and advocate for a balanced strategy that integrates mental and physical health. You’ll learn how thoughts and emotions impact hormonal balance and discover practical techniques to shift your mindset. Tanja brings a wealth of knowledge from her hands-on experience with functional lab testing, personalized wellness protocols, and mindset coaching. She helps her clients thrive by addressing not just what they do but how they think and what they believe about themselves and the world.Find out why mindset isn’t everything and how combining it with an understanding of body science is key to not just achieving but LOVING your health results.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:44 Definition and relevance of "mind over matter" in health and fitness7:19 Practical techniques for mindset shifts22:58 Impact of thoughts and emotions on hormonal balance33:27 Mindset strategies to change and improve stress39:17 The benefits and disadvantages of having an optimism bias44:05 Where is mindset alone insufficient47:28 Predictive biomarkers in functional lab testing and their impact on mindset coaching49:07 The role of outdoor activities in promoting mental and physical well-being52:38 The question Tanja wished Philip had asked53:18 Where to reach Tanja53:45 OutroEpisode resources:Podcast: Fit + Vibrant You Website: tanjashaw.com/Instagram: @tanja_shaw Facebook: www.fb.com/tanjashaw 💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Want to build serious strength and muscle mass in the most efficient way possible?Today, we're talking about the importance of compound lifts and why they should be the foundation of your strength training routine.Join me on today's Quick Wits as I explain what compound lifts are, why they should be the foundation of your strength training program, and how to prioritize them for maximum results.We walk through the essentials of squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and more, explaining how these multi-muscle group exercises provide the most bang for your workout buck. By engaging multiple joints and muscle groups, compound lifts maximize force and muscle overload, setting the stage for formidable gains in both strength and size. Discover how compound exercises improve your coordination, stability, mobility, and motor control, ensuring that your strength training has real-world applications. We're here to build a foundation for a robust and active life, ensuring that you remain strong and functional at any age. Tune in to fortify your workout routine and your day-to-day resilience with the power of compound lifts!--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Have you ever wondered what’s sabotaging your fat loss? Could it be one of these common scenarios? Should you start your fat-loss diet now?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) breaks down the roadblocks to achieving your fat loss goals. He explores the top 15 reasons why dieting may not be the best decision right now. He highlights a range of scenarios that can hinder your fat loss efforts, emphasizing the need to address these factors before starting a calorie deficit. From high stress levels and poor sleep quality to inadequate nutrition and inconsistent training, each reason is thoroughly dissected to guide you toward sustainable fat loss. Philip also emphasizes the importance of mental health, supportive environments, and life events that can influence your success in a dieting phase. He discusses considerations such as hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and significant life transitions, providing a holistic view of the potential challenges you may encounter on your weight loss journey. He encourages you to assess your current circumstances, manage stressors, and have contingency plans ready to navigate challenges effectively. Today, you’ll learn all about:0:00 Intro3:00 High stress levels4:00 Low sleep quality5:03 Poor nutrition8:58 Inconsistent training10:44 Injury or illness12:23 Pregnancy or breastfeeding13:45 Prioritizing mental health15:58 Unsupportive environments17:07 Underlying hormonal imbalances18:13 Nutrient deficiencies19:02 Upcoming major life event21:30 History of eating disorders23:13 Period of intense training25:14 Significant life transition27:20 Medication side effects cause weight gain31:28 OutroEpisode resources:Watch this FREE video on how to setup MacroFactor for body recomp and try MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTSRelated episode:Ep 170: How Fast Should You Lose Weight for Fat Loss?💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Want to pack on muscle mass but confused about how many extra calories you need?Today, we're diving into a crucial concept for anyone looking to gain weight and build muscle: the 2500 calorie rule. You might have heard of the 3500 calorie rule for fat loss, which states that a deficit of 3500 calories is needed to lose 1 pound of body fat.But when it comes to gaining weight and building muscle, the equation looks a bit different. You see, muscle tissue is much denser than fat tissue, which means that gaining one pound of muscle requires a different calorie surplus than gaining one pound of fat.===> Get the FREE Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint mentioned in the episodeJoin me on today's Quick Wits as I break down the science behind the 2500 calorie rule for gaining weight and building muscle effectively.Or go to witsandweights.com/free for all our free guides.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

This conversation is from my appearance on The Healthification Podcast hosted by Kate Galli.Kate invited me on her show to discuss becoming the strongest, leanest, healthiest version of yourself without dieting. We dug into the common mistakes smart people make when they're not using their wits to build their best body. I shared insights on the importance of minimum effective dose to achieve health and fitness results, and the surprising factors that can increase or decrease your metabolism to make fat loss easier, without restrictive dieting.We also discussed what to do instead of constantly dieting to achieve sustainable results. I provided strategies for busting through weight loss plateaus and how we can work with our human nature instead of fighting against it. We also touched on whether low-carb diets may be holding people back from getting lean.Enjoy my conversation with Kate Galli! Episode resources:The Healthification Podcast with Kate GalliEp 163: The Most Important, Overlooked Secret to Sculpting a Body You'll Love with Kate Galli💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Are you dreaming of having the perfect glutes? Have you ever wondered how your diet and genes influence the shape of your butt? Ready to find out the most effective workout routines and strategies to sculpt your dream glutes?In this exciting episode, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes Sue Bush, the co-owner of Physique Development, a certified personal trainer, fitness nutritionist, and competitive physique athlete. Sue, a co-contributor to the March issue of Body By Science, joins Philip to discuss a topic that’s sure to interest many - how to develop a shapely, firm, and functional butt. She explains why we’re so fascinated with glutes, the benefits of glute development beyond aesthetics, and the most effective strategies for optimal results. Sue also shares insights on the role of nutrition, genetics, and individual response in glute development, providing practical tips for different ages and equipment availability.Sue’s journey in the fitness industry began in 2017, and she has since earned multiple certifications and competed in physique competitions for four seasons. With her passion for empowering women to prioritize their health and fitness, Sue specializes in helping individuals make sustainable lifestyle changes that align with their goals and schedules. Together with her husband, Alex Bush, and the rest of Team PD at Physique Development, Sue is committed to leading, educating, and inspiring generational change through the power of health and excellence.Today, you’ll learn all about:3:24 Why we love butts8:12 Benefits of glute development13:03 What to prioritize (training, nutrition) and how genetics play a role19:23 Approach to training (exercises, programming, and individual response)27:23 Training intensity and execution36:05 The importance of logging and taking videos42:53 The impact of exercise selection in glute training53:30 Training over 40 in the context of back health55:41 The question Sue wanted Philip to ask and her answer1:00:55 Where to find Sue1:01:30 OutroEpisode resources:Instagram: @suegainzVideo: How To Select Your Weight to Train with REAL IntensityFREE 4-Week Glute ProgramPhysique Development podcast💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Is walking exercise or not? Does it even matter?Today, we're tackling a recent controversy sparked by Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, who made waves on social media by claiming that walking is not exercise. As someone who's always preaching the importance of strength training for building muscle and transforming your body, I wanted to weigh in on this topic and offer some perspective.Join me on today's Quick Wits as I share my thoughts on why this question might be missing the point entirely, and why strength training should be your top priority for physique development anyway.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

What is the sweet spot between shedding fat and preserving muscle? How can diet breaks and refeeds help you achieve your fat loss goal? Is rapid fat loss the secret sauce to fine-tuning your physique?In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) uncovers the truth about the ideal rate of fat loss, exploring the full spectrum of approaches from slow and steady to rapid and aggressive and everything in between. He explains the pros and cons of each strategy, highlighting the benefits you gain from each approach. He discusses how to incorporate diet breaks and refeeds for optimal results, providing you with practical strategies for long-term, sustainable diet management that will leave you feeling motivated.Whether you’re a beginner looking to lose your first 20 pounds or an experienced dieter aiming to get shredded, this episode serves as a valuable guide. Philip aims to give you a clearer understanding of how to navigate your weight loss journey, emphasizing the importance of making informed, strategic choices for your individual goals and lifestyle.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:25 How fast CAN you lose weight without losing muscle mass12:37 The benefits of the slow and steady approach16:39 The conservative fat loss approach22:17 Incorporating diet breaks for mental and metabolic benefits24:32 The standard fat loss approach34:47 Incorporating refeeds, not cheat days, for the mental break37:39 The mini-cut or aggressive approach45:41 The micro-cut or rapid fat loss approach54:23 How to choose the fat loss approach that is right for you1:00:00 OutroEpisode resources:Learn about Weights Physique University (now open for enrollment at a new, more affordable bi-weekly price)Related episodes:Ep 104: Fat Loss vs. Weight LossEp 116: 7 Lessons from My Rapid Fat Loss Micro-Cut (Aggressive Dieting is Not for Everyone!)Ep 156: How to Lose 1000 Pounds💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Is the pursuit of being skinny the key to happiness?We're diving into the complex relationship between the desire to be thin and the pursuit of happiness. In our appearance-obsessed culture, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating being skinny with being happy. But here's the thing: this oversimplification often leads us astray when it comes to setting and achieving our physique goals.We'll explore this common misconception, discuss the importance of body composition over scale weight, and I'll walk you through the powerful "5 Whys" technique to uncover your true motivation for your physique goals on today's Quick Wits.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Today we are answering two questions from the community. One from a powerlifter who has the dilemma of trying to maintain strength for some upcoming meats, but without gaining too much fat and a long time, and the other from a food tracker concerned about taking a break from logging and worried about regaining all the weight.Here are the two questions:1. How should you adjust your nutrition for an upcoming powerlifting meet?John is preparing for two powerlifting meets and wants to maintain strength without gaining excessive fat. He's currently at 200 pounds with 22-26% body fat and tracks his food intake. Given his goals and current stats, what nutrition approach would be most suitable for his upcoming meets?2. What to do if you stop tracking because your adherence is slipping but you're afraid of regaining your weight back?Valerie has been tracking her food intake for over a decade, most recently using MacroFactor for six months. Despite losing 7 pounds, her adherence is slipping, and she's considering taking a break from tracking. She's concerned about potential weight gain and seeks advice on how to approach this new phase while maintaining protein intake and regular workouts.Get the answers in today's Weekend Q&A bonus episode.---This is a special Weekend Q&A edition of the Wits & Weights podcast, where we supercharge your Saturdays with an answer to one burning question so YOU can put it into action this weekend.These questions are taken from the weekly #AskPhilip thread in our free Wits & Weights Facebook community. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless amount of information and, let’s be honest, MISinformation online and just want a straight up answer without the jargon, that’s what this free service is for.With the weekly #AskPhilip thread, you can post a specific question relevant to your unique, individual situation that week and have it answered live by me on Friday. If you’d like to experience it yourself, I invite you to use the link in the show notes to join the Wits & Weights Facebook group. It’s totally free and you’ll quickly find out what a positive and supportive community it is.Join our FREE community here to get access to the #AskPhilip thread!💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

How long should you rest between sets? What to do if you're gaining too much on a bulk? Can women over 50 overcome menopause weight-loss resistance and is it a thing? How to train when transitioning from bulking to cutting? In today's episode, fitness expert and coach Jeff Hoehn joins Philip (@witsandweights) as a co-host. They dive deep into various fitness topics in this Q&A session, including the challenges of weight loss during menopause, strategies for bulking without excessive weight gain, the optimal rest intervals for muscle growth and strength, and the impact of sleep on cutting cycles. Jeff Hoehn hosts the podcast The Mind Muscle Connection. His podcast stands out for its science-based approach to fitness and nutrition, and the mental aspects of achieving overall wellness. Jeff's podcast covers a range of topics, including the often-neglected topic of body recomposition. For those who don’t want to bulk or cut exclusively, his workshops offer a holistic approach to achieving the best of both worlds. Today, you’ll learn all about:6:24 How long should you rest between sets for muscle growth and strength?16:17 Are there too many cons of cutting during periods of low sleep? Should I just stay at maintenance calories?23:50 I'm gaining a little too much weight in a building phase. What do I do?41:10 How do I adjust my programming during the transition from a bulk to a cut? Which training variables are most important?48:58 Is menopause and weight loss resistance a thing? Related to this, what's your advice on programming and nutrition for women over 50?58:28 How do you "prep" before a season of "going nuts" with food (Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.)?1:06:30 OutroEpisode resources:The Mind Muscle Connection podcastJeff’s IG: @jeffhoehn_Related episodes:Ep 66: Sustaining Fat Loss Results and Maximizing Recovery for The Long Game with Jeff Hoehn💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Your mindset during menopause can make a huge difference in your success for fat loss and body composition. Perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause are extremely important and profound transitions for women!There is a significant psychological component and an opportunity to reframe this phase of life when combined training, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. Learn all about mindset for menopause fat-loss in today's Quick Wits. This is a module from the Menopause Fat-Loss Formula course in Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU), our game-changing semi-private group coaching experience.===> Learn more about WWPU here--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Are you worried about regaining fat after a successful cut? Is reverse dieting really a shortcut to a faster metabolic rate, or just a fitness fad? Are you ready to ditch the reverse dieting rollercoaster? In this eye-opening episode, Philip (@witsandweights) dives into the controversial world of reverse dieting. You’ve probably heard the buzz about how it can boost your metabolism, prevent fat regain, and make future weight loss a breeze. But is it the magic solution it’s cracked up to be?Philip cuts through the noise, reveals the hard facts, and dismantles the myths surrounding reverse dieting, backed by science and practical insights. He dives into the metabolic science, behavioral psychology, and practical alternatives that work far better for post-diet recovery and long-term weight maintenance. If you're considering reverse dieting after your cut, listen all the way through so you understand both the mechanisms AND the more time-efficient strategies Philip will give you so you don’t ever need to reverse diet again. It’s time to rethink your approach and embrace smarter, more efficient methods!Today, you’ll learn all about:4:28 What is reverse dieting6:48 Metabolic adaptation10:01 Regaining body fat and maintenance calories17:06 Does it increase your starting metabolic rate?20:08 What to do instead of reverse dieting25:00 Why people do the reverse diet32:31 OutroEpisode resources:Watch this FREE video on how to setup MacroFactor for body recomp and try MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTSRelated episodes:Ep 96: Why Reverse Dieting Doesn't Work Like You Think (and What to Do Instead)💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

What's the difference between tracking and "counting" calories?It's a little bit of art. It's a little bit of science. You will definitely learn why one is different than the other and what's important and how to do it, effective tools for the job and how to make this part of your journey so that you can get results. This is a module from the Crack the Calorie Code course in Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU), our game-changing semi-private group coaching experience.===> Learn more about WWPU here--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

On this classic episode (a replay of Ep 60), we’re examining the world of programming and coaching with my special guest, Andy Baker. We get into programming principles for lifters of different ages and experience levels, whether your goal is to improve strength, performance, or body composition, or just have fun but effective workouts. We also talk about Andy’s career as a coach, training principles and methods, and what he’s been up to lately.If you don’t already know him, Andy Baker is a highly sought-after strength coach, personal trainer, competitive raw and drug-free powerlifter, and co-author of two best-selling books on strength training.Andy’s books and programming changed my life when I finally figured things out and got my act together back in 2020 and did my first novice linear progression with Starting Strength. I’ve since run several of his programs, my favorite being The KSC Method for Power-Building, and I’ve been a group client of his Baker Barbell Club since 2021.Unlock the secrets of effective strength training with Andy Baker, a strength coach whose expertise spans from military fitness to running a successful barbell club. Our conversation promises insights that transcend the usual workout chatter, focusing on how to craft a regimen that's as enjoyable as it is sustainable. Andy and I dissect the principles of programming that hold true whether you're a gym rookie or a seasoned weightlifter, offering guidance on how to pursue strength, enhance body composition, and safeguard long-term health.To check out the original episode (including full timestamps and links to Andy's website and podcast), check out:Ep 60: Strength and Programming for Maximum Gains at Any Age with Andy BakerYou might also like the more recent interview of Andy about bodybuilding:Ep 131: Andy Baker on Bodybuilding for Hypertrophy and an Aesthetic, Muscular Physique💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Are you struggling with weight due to thyroid issues? Confused about the role of minerals in thyroid function? Do you need a roadmap for exercise and nutrition with a thyroid condition?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes Haley Fountain, a women's health coach who balances modern nutrition with ancient wisdom and behavioral science. Haley is certified as an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and specializes in Hormonal Health. She's also a yoga instructor, model, and actress.In this episode, you will learn about the world of thyroid health. This complex issue impacts your weight, metabolism, sleep, and mental health. Haley will guide us through managing weight with a thyroid condition, the role of minerals in thyroid function, and the importance of exercise and nutrition. They'll also explore how the mind-body connection and sleep contribute to thyroid health. Haley is dedicated to empowering women to thrive. She offers personalized coaching, organizes events, and hosts retreats to create a supportive environment for women to connect with their health and well-being. Her approach is to provide accessible and practical information, regardless of where individuals are on their health journey. Whether someone is dealing with thyroid issues or simply seeking to expand their knowledge, Haley's expertise promises to be valuable.Get the 13-minute bonus Q&A video interview with Haley on thyroid healthToday, you’ll learn all about:2:11 The importance of the thyroid and its function4:26 The conditions associated with the thyroid6:05 Hormones vs. lifestyle8:22 The role of the thyroid in metabolism and weight management12:27 How do you approach meal spacing and diet18:36 The link between minerals, supplementation, diet, and thyroid health27:33 How to test for mineral deficiency33:04 Exercise for thyroid health35:45 The impact of the third leg of movement 37:29 Specific foods that are helpful for the thyroid41:22 The value of sleep, naps, and yoga45:22 What Hely wished Philip had asked48:19 Where to learn more about Haley48:47 OutroEpisode resources:Haley’s website: holisticinhouston.com/ IG: @holistic_in_houston YouTube: @holisticinhouston1💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Think spending more time in the gym is how to look like you lift? Think again.There's one surprising reason that most people are doing that prevents them looking like they want to and getting results from all that hard work in the gym, and we're going to talk about that on today's Quick Wits. Ever feel like you're a hamster on a wheel, working out endlessly but your muscles are playing hide and seek? Let's reveal the culprit behind why your gym efforts aren't translating to that superhero silhouette you're after. Today, I am tearing down the misconceptions that keep your gains under wraps. We're not just lifting weights; we're lifting the veil on creating an anabolic environment, the necessity of a calorie surplus, and the optimal path to muscle visibility. This episode is your ticket to a smarter workout regimen that ensures you're not only feeling Herculean on the inside but also looking the part.Forget the frustration of progress that feels glacial and those years that seem wasted in search of muscle definition. I break down evidence-based strategies for a controlled calorie surplus that meshes with your body’s needs like a glove.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Are you feeling lost in the calorie counting maze for body recomposition? Struggling to juggle muscle gain and fat loss at the same time? Tired of the yo-yo effect after dieting?In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) talks about body recomposition and strategies for muscle gain and fat loss. He covers the nutrition fundamentals and lifting weights principles that make recomp work, starting with maintenance calories for beginners and slower recomp for experienced individuals. Philip also dives into caloric balance, setting and adjusting calorie targets, and optimizing macronutrient ratios for muscle growth and fat loss. He emphasizes the importance of peri-workout nutrition to support muscle growth through strategic protein and carbohydrate consumption.Philip also stresses that strength training is crucial to body recomposition and long-term fat loss. He shares principles of effective strength training, including progressive overload and proper exercise techniques. He also touches on the hormonal benefits of strength training, like elevated testosterone and growth hormones.Philip advocates a holistic approach to body recomposition, incorporating nutrition, training, mindset, and lifestyle factors. He encourages celebrating small victories, staying dedicated, and trusting the process towards achieving your desired physique.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:59 Wins from the WWPU community6:48 Common misunderstanding about body recomp10:57 Underlying body recomp mechanisms13:47 Three categories of body recomp19:37 Using nutrition for body recomposition27:20 Setting your macros28:47 The significance of effective strength training31:09 Benefits of proper training and building muscle mass33:40 Peri-workout nutrition36:34 Optimizing health and hormone status39:59 The importance of mindset44:02 Final thoughts on body recomp48:27 OutroEpisode resources:Watch this FREE video on how to setup MacroFactor for body recompTry MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTSRelated episodes:Ep 66: Sustaining Fat Loss Results and Maximizing Recovery for The Long Game with Jeff HoehnEp 136: How to Maintain a Lean Physique Year-Round (Without Cuts or Bulks)Ep 162: Bodybuilding for Everyday Lifters Who Want to Build Their Dream Physique💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

If you're pressed for time in the gym but you still want to make massive gains, learn about time-efficient training techniques to supercharge your upper body workouts.Ever feel like you're racing against the clock in the gym, trying to squeeze in those exercises? We're sharing the insider scoop on rest-pause sets and supersets that can cut your gym time in half while still scoring you those significant muscle gains.This episode isn't just about fast-tracking your fitness; it's about optimizing every minute for maximum results. We'll explain why these tried-and-true methods, often overlooked as simple bro-science, are backed by solid research and can be integrated into your routine without compromising performance. Tune in as we break down how to maintain intensity and volume in your workouts, sidestepping the common trap of excessive volume, all while keeping an eye on the clock. Whether you're a busy professional or a time-strapped fitness enthusiast, you won't want to miss the game-changing strategies we're unpacking to revolutionize your upper body workouts.--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Should you stop taking creatine to drop weight as a runner, and will it kill your gains? What is the best diet to lower your cholesterol? Can you still build lean muscle while on a calorie deficit, as long as the protein is high? And is body recomp realistic if you are 200 pounds, 5'10 with 25% body fat or really whatever your stats are and your background?We are answering 4 questions today:Should I stop taking creatine to drop weight as a long-distance runner and will it kill my gains?What is the best diet to lower my cholesterol (omnivore, carnivore, keto, Mediterranean, etc.)?Can I still build lean muscle while in a calorie deficit as long as the protein is high?Is body recomp realistic for me at 200 pounds, 5'10", 25% body fat. I lift 5 days a week, cardio 2-4 days.Get the answers in today's Weekend Q&A bonus episode.Mentioned in the episode:Get MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS---This is a special Weekend Q&A edition of the Wits & Weights podcast, where we supercharge your Saturdays with an answer to one burning question so YOU can put it into action this weekend.These questions are taken from the weekly #AskPhilip thread in our free Wits & Weights Facebook community. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless amount of information and, let’s be honest, MISinformation online and just want a straight up answer without the jargon, that’s what this free service is for.With the weekly #AskPhilip thread, you can post a specific question relevant to your unique, individual situation that week and have it answered live by me on Friday. If you’d like to experience it yourself, I invite you to use the link in the show notes to join the Wits & Weights Facebook group. It’s totally free and you’ll quickly find out what a positive and supportive community it is.Join our FREE community here to get access to the #AskPhilip thread!💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Do you struggle with self-sabotage, procrastination, or perfectionism? Are you looking for practical tips to address emotional eating and stress-related behaviors? Today, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes back Paul Salter, an expert in hypno-mindset and performance coaching. A mentor, a friend, and a fellow podcaster, Paul is back to dive deep into the power of the mind and share his expertise on self-sabotage, procrastination, or perfectionism, and how to uncover the roots of these behaviors. Paul also discusses the different faces of perfectionism and what fuels them. It’s time to understand your motivations and free yourself from unrealistic expectations.Paul is a master at hacking the human psyche. Having helped everyone from elite athletes at the pinnacle of their sports to high-flying entrepreneurs and professionals across multiple fields, Paul has spent the last 15 years crafting his approach, which combines hypnosis, subconscious reprogramming, and mindset shift training. This approach is all aimed at one thing — helping you break free from the chains of self-sabotage, overcome mental roadblocks, and shatter the glass ceilings of limiting beliefs.Paul is also a Registered Dietitian, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and Certified Hypnotherapist, and he hosts The Unstuck Yourself podcast. You are going to love his insights on how to stop procrastination and perfectionism dead in their tracks so you can finally get unstuck in your health and fitness journey.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:54 Understanding the subconscious mind9:32 Psychology and mechanisms of self-sabotage12:51 Identifying and transforming sabotaging behaviors21:55 Psychological triggers of procrastination33:44 Perfectionism tendencies and childhood influences38:58 Different types of perfectionism and overcoming them44:14 Techniques to align desire and action against perfectionism47:19 What is the core emotional home50:18 The question Paul wished Philip had asked51:26 Where to find Paul51:50 OutroEpisode resources:Ep 33: Sustainable Weight Loss, Emotional Awareness, and the Dieting Mindset with Paul SalterPaul's IG: @paulsaltercoachingThe Unstuck Yourself Podcast1:1 Hypno-Mindset and Performance Coaching💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Heart rate variability (HRV)...you may have heard of it, you may see it on your wearable device or phone app, and perhaps you're not sure exactly what it means or how to use that information.We are going to make HRV work for you and dive into the numbers that matter to unveil some of the strategies to optimize your HRV for better health and performance...on today's Quick Wits!Also, this is the last week to enroll in Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU) at the 40% off launch price.===> Click here to learn moreWHAT IS WITS & WEIGHTS PHYSIQUE UNIVERSITY?A game-changing solution for ambitious individuals who take action but refuse to settle for a mediocre physique. This cutting-edge semi-private group coaching program is designed to help you shatter plateaus, build muscle, and burn fat like never before.World-class courses on nutrition and training, coupled with a Done For You Nutrition Plan, monthly workout programs, live group coaching calls, and a thriving community of like-minded individuals, will provide you with the tools, support, and accountability you need to achieve a truly remarkable transformation.Say goodbye to restrictive diets, boring workouts, and endless plateaus, and hello to the strong, lean, and healthy body you deserve. Stop spinning your wheels. Your dream physique is finally within reach.===> Click here to enroll at 40% off--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Does the idea of food logging stress you out? Do you feel guilty or overwhelmed about tracking food? Or is it a source of freedom and control? In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) discusses making food logging a positive and helpful experience. He emphasizes the importance of approaching it with a neutral and non-judgmental mindset, promoting self-awareness and sustainable progress. Philip shares some principles to promote consistency and avoid obsession, as well as how to use logging data for self-discovery and experimentation. He also recommends using tools like MacroFactor for nonjudgmental food tracking and dynamic metabolism adjustments.Philip aims to help you transform food logging into a pleasurable and helpful experience, focusing on the big picture, maintaining a neutral mindset, and celebrating progress. He provides practical tips and tools to enhance the food logging process and promote a healthier lifestyle.Also, this is the LAST WEEK to enroll in Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU) at the 40% OFF launch price. Take advantage of this incredible discount now!===> Click here to learn moreToday, you’ll learn all about:5:26 What is food logging8:03 Principles of food logging and practical tips11:25 Neutral self-awareness, instead of judgment17:30 Efficient practices for food logging19:18 What to log and not to track24:11 Celebrate your progress and positive changes27:07 Dynamic food logging app31:31 OutroEpisode resources:Ep 152: My Complete Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint (Bulking to Get Lean and Fit Over 40)Get MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTSGet New Physique-Focused Workout Programs Every Month in the Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU) - This is the LAST WEEK to join Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU) at a massive 40% DISCOUNT before the launch. Get in on this incredible deal now!===> Click here to enroll at 40% off💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

When it comes to food and nutrition, there is a fine line between RESTRICTION and DEPRIVATION. We dive into how to make empowering choices that align with your goals without sacrificing the joy of eating on today's Quick Wits.Also, this is the last week to enroll in Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU) at the 40% off launch price.===> Click here to learn moreWHAT IS WITS & WEIGHTS PHYSIQUE UNIVERSITY?A game-changing solution for ambitious individuals who take action but refuse to settle for a mediocre physique. This cutting-edge semi-private group coaching program is designed to help you shatter plateaus, build muscle, and burn fat like never before.World-class courses on nutrition and training, coupled with a Done For You Nutrition Plan, monthly workout programs, live group coaching calls, and a thriving community of like-minded individuals, will provide you with the tools, support, and accountability you need to achieve a truly remarkable transformation.Say goodbye to restrictive diets, boring workouts, and endless plateaus, and hello to the strong, lean, and healthy body you deserve. Stop spinning your wheels. Your dream physique is finally within reach.===> Click here to enroll at 40% off--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Have you ever chased the number on the scale only to find yourself back at square one?This conversation is from my appearance on Megan Dahlman's podcast, Self Care Simplified.Megan invited me on her podcast to dig into the strategies that actually work for sustainable fat loss, especially for those in midlife. We discussed the difference between weight loss and fat loss, and how to lose fat while maintaining muscle mass. I shared insights on why the approaches that worked in our 20s might not be as effective in our 40s, 50s, and beyond.Throughout our conversation, we covered the importance of understanding body composition and its role in fat loss. I also shared 3 guiding principles for achieving true, sustainable fat loss and how to incorporate them into your life.If you've ever felt frustrated, confused, or defeated in your pursuit of fat loss, this episode will break it down into simple, attainable steps.Enjoy my conversation with Megan Dahlman on Self Care Simplified!Episode ResourcesSelf Care Simplified podcast with Megan Dahlman 💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

What is the most important thing in your life and how can you take care of that to create a body you'll love?Philip (@witsandweights) has a special guest, Kate Galli, on the show today. Kate brings a unique perspective to self-care, emphasizing the importance of being in the best physical and mental shape to make a difference in the world. In this episode, she will guide you on how to master your inner dialogue, prioritize your health and happiness, and tailor your self-care practices to fit your lifestyle. You'll gain practical tools to reshape your daily routine, so it aligns with your core values and propels you to become the best version of yourself.Kate has extensive qualifications, including being a Master Personal Trainer for 18 years, a Life Coach, and an NLP Practitioner. She is also committed to plant-based nutrition, a path she's been dedicated to for the past eight years. She uses this approach to help thousands of individuals sculpt the body and life they love with the confidence to go with it.Kate's work is fueled by her ambitious vision: a world where fitness and compassion go hand in hand to create a fit, strong, happy, and healthy planet. She believes in the power of mindset, of CHOOSING to eat and move in a way that is sustainable and consistent with your lifestyle AND values.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:49 The importance of self-care7:01 Self-talk and labels you assign to yourself13:03 Elicit your values and beliefs 19:39 Lock and load the big rocks that make you happy25:55 Filter the people you spend time with33:27 Create a not-to-do list38:45 A 24-hour digital detox43:27 Realistic for yourself and the people you love53:23 Easy quick fixes55:50 The question Kate wanted Philip to ask57:05 Where to find Kate57:42 OutroEpisode resources:Kate's podcast: The Healthification PodcastThe Plant Positive JournalInstagram: @strongbodygreenplanet💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

FREE PHYSIQUE-BASED WORKOUT PROGRAMS!On today's Quick Wits, we are answering questions about how to train, how to warm up your lift, how to choose an initial load so that you can get all the reps but not go too lightly, how to rest so you get sufficient time between sets, how to progress, and which movements to do week after week, as well as how to manage recovery so that you can train hard, but not so hard that you stop making progress. Plus: Get a free month of workout programs from Wits & Weights Physique University as a THANK YOU for listening to the podcast:👉 Just click here to get your free physique-focused workout programsWhat is Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU)?===> Click here to learn more--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your body and ready to finally achieve that impressive, muscular physique you've always dreamed of?What basic principles can guide your bodybuilding journey? What progress can you expect from bodybuilding over time? How does bodybuilding benefit your mental health?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) talks about bodybuilding and how it can help you achieve your dream body. You’ll learn the basics, like progressive overload, proper form, and the role of nutrition in supporting your goals. He also discusses the physical and mental benefits of bodybuilding, how to set achievable goals, keep track of your progress, and how to keep improving. You will learn practical tips and strategies to help you change your body and get the look you’ve always wanted.Philip is also thrilled to announce that enrollment is now open for the new Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU). This comprehensive fitness program, designed by Philip and his team, provides everything from personalized nutrition plans to diverse courses and monthly workout programs tailored to different goals. The program caters to all levels of fitness, with access to gym or home workout plans, and even a specialized lower body program for women. The community offers weekly live coaching and individual guidance. To join, visit witsandweights.com/physique. It’s a monthly program that you can cancel within the first 21 days and get your money back. So, you have nothing to lose and much to gain, including muscle!Today, you’ll learn all about:6:26 Defining bodybuilding10:47 Mental and emotional impact of bodybuilding12:51 Bodybuilding vs. powerlifting14:49 The sport of bodybuilding16:20 Setting realistic goals21:59 Individual response to training and nutrition26:55 Equipment and resources for training32:58 The principles of bodybuilding: progressive overload, volume, and frequency38:32 Rep ranges and rest intervals: finding the optimal balance42:36 Training to failure: pushing your limits safely44:34 Mind-muscle connection: The power of visualization47:58 Importance of form: safeguarding your body and progress50:39 Tracking progress: monitoring and adjusting for growth54:19 Motivation and mindset: Keys to long-term success56:38 Embracing the journey: Finding rewards in the process1:01:21 OutroEpisode resources:Get New Physique-Focused Workout Programs Every Month💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

FREE PHYSIQUE-BASED WORKOUT PROGRAMS!Have you ever asked yourself what skill level am I when it comes to workout programming for strength training and how many days a week should I work out to get the best results?We are covering all that and more on today's Quick Wits.Plus: Get a free month of workout programs from Wits & Weights Physique University as a THANK YOU for listening to the podcast:👉 Just click here to get your free physique-focused workout programsWhat is Wits & Weights Physique University (WWPU)?===> Click here to learn more--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

When you're forced to take a break from training due to injury or illness, how long does it take before muscle loss begins to occur? And how do I get more muscle to increase my metabolism?We are answering two questions today:When forced to take a break from training due to injury or illness, how long does it take before muscle loss begins to occur?How do I get more muscle to increase my daily expenditure?Get the answers in today's Weekend Q&A bonus episode.Tune in to learn why muscle deterioration isn't as swift as you think, and how a high-protein diet and even minimal resistance training can stall any unwelcome muscle shrinkage.We'll also discuss adjusting your nutrition to align with your activity level, ensuring you're fueling your body to best support muscle maintenance. ---This is a special Weekend Q&A edition of the Wits & Weights podcast, where we supercharge your Saturdays with an answer to one burning question so YOU can put it into action this weekend.These questions are taken from the weekly #AskPhilip thread in our free Wits & Weights Facebook community. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless amount of information and, let’s be honest, MISinformation online and just want a straight up answer without the jargon, that’s what this free service is for.With the weekly #AskPhilip thread, you can post a specific question relevant to your unique, individual situation that week and have it answered live by me on Friday. If you’d like to experience it yourself, I invite you to use the link in the show notes to join the Wits & Weights Facebook group. It’s totally free and you’ll quickly find out what a positive and supportive community it is.Join our FREE community here to get access to the #AskPhilip thread!💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Can a carb-rich, high-calorie diet boost our metabolism? What are the real effects of fasting on our energy levels? How can lifestyle choices impact our mood and overall health?In today’s episode, Philip (@witsandweights) is joined by Jay Feldman. Jay is a health coach and host of The Energy Balance Podcast, which focuses on bioenergetic health.Jay discusses the impact of maximizing cellular energy on mental health, metabolism, longevity, and more. He will address modern diet culture, stress, and lifestyle in the context of your health and offer practical solutions for adopting a sustainable, energy-boosting diet without relying on restriction or willpower. They even get into thyroid function and how to manage thyroid issues.Jay is a health coach and independent health researcher with a rich neuroscience and exercise physiology background. Instead of traditional medical school, Jay chose a different path to explore health. He believes that our health’s true foundation lies in maximizing cellular energy.As the host of The Energy Balance Podcast, Jay champions this bioenergetic view, focusing on maximizing cellular energy as the cornerstone of vitality. His mission is to empower men and women worldwide to achieve freedom from low-energy symptoms and chronic health issues to maximize their cellular energy and optimize their health using a personalized bioenergetic approach.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:17 Explaining the bioenergetic diet and its differences from traditional diets6:31 Pillars of the bioenergetic approach9:01 Energy expenditure and metabolic rate10:33 Low-carb diet for diabetics, and during fat loss14:39 Digestive health and energy production18:29 The role of bioenergetics in body composition22:46 Understanding endotoxins29:15 Linking bioenergetics to mental health and cognitive improvement39:22 Differentiating between hormesis and chronic stress effects on health43:11 Mitigating negative impacts of modern lifestyle and diet culture49:44 The significance of lifestyle/diet on thyroid function and management insights55:15 One question Jay wished Philip had asked 57:31 Where you can learn more about Jay and his work58:30 OutroEpisode resources:The Energy Balance Podcast The Energy Balance Food Guide (1-page infographic) - jayfeldmanwellness.com/guide 💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Have you ever felt like you are doing all the things right on your fitness journey for your health, your nutrition, your training...but something's missing? And that something is support or other people or someone to share it with? A lot of us are in that 5% percent of people that are really going after the best versions of ourselves, and we feel like the majority people around us aren't doing the same. Today's Quick Wits is all about elevating your game and your success by doing it as part of a community, and in this episode Philip shares two ways that you can do that. Two amazing communities you can join for like-minded support, accountability, and pushing yourself to become the best version of yourself:Wits & Weights Facebook community (free)Wits & Weights Physique University (join the pre-sale early notification list)--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

How often have you been told to “eat less, move more” to lose weight? Does this advice have any merit whatsoever?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) goes over the real reasons holding you back from sustainable fat loss and optimal metabolic health, and it’s NOT because you’re not doing enough exercise or restricting your calories enough.Philip explains why the common weight loss advice to "eat less, move more" is terrible. He discusses the importance of muscle mass for a healthy metabolism, how protein and strength training can help maintain muscle, and why simply eating less and doing more cardio isn’t always the best approach. He also talks about the role of carbs in fat loss and the benefits of cardio for metabolic health. Philip also highlights the importance of hydration, good sleep, and stress management for metabolic function. He discusses the impact of alcohol on metabolism and hormones and the importance of whole foods for metabolic health. Philip bases his notes on the FREE Metabolism audit that you can take on the Wits and Weights website for a personalized assessment: https://www.witsandweights.com/free-metabolism-assessment Today, you’ll learn all about:3:25 Five-star reviews6:32 Misconceptions about the "eat less, move more" advice8:22 The importance of muscle mass for metabolism9:53 Supporting muscle growth with protein11:04 The principles of strength training and overload14:07 Fueling your body and staying active21:16 Avoiding sedentary behavior22:30 Why the "eat less, move more" approach is destructive25:17 Hydration, sleep, and stress management30:05 Chronic stress and its effect on metabolism32:56 Whole/unprocessed foods, dairy, grains, and alcohol42:17 Personalized metabolism audit for optimal health43:49 OutroEpisode resources:Take the FREE Metabolism audit to learn about your metabolic flexibility💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

What if there's a mental shift that you can make right now that would make it even easier to break through plateaus and reach and smash your fitness goals?In today's Quick Wits as we explore this little shift in your approach that will give you massive results. --“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

This conversation is from my appearance on Jen Rulon's podcast, The Everyday Healthy Human.Jen invited me on her podcast to discuss the importance of evidence-based fitness and nutrition, debunk the need for excessive cardio to lose weight, and emphasize the benefits of lifting heavy. You’ll learn about the significance of building habits and non-negotiables in achieving long-term success, and I shared my personal journey and offered advice for those going through a change.Throughout our conversation, we highlighted the importance of focusing on strength, adopting a flexible approach to nutrition, and finding joy in the process of transformation. You'll learn why an evidence-based approach is crucial for navigating the often-confusing world of fitness and nutrition.Enjoy my conversation with Jen Rulon on The Everyday Healthy Human podcast!Episode ResourcesThe Everyday Healthy Human podcast with Jen Rulon 💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

What does it mean to "train hard"? Is it training to failure, progressive overload, intensity, something else? Find out the answers in today's episode.Today, Steve Hall, the founder of Revive Stronger, a seasoned natural bodybuilder and podcast host, shares his expertise on essential training principles. Philip (@witsandweights) invited him to the show to share his insights on what it means to "train hard" and how to apply scientific research to your training effectively. They discussed reps in reserve (RIR), proximity to failure, minimum effective volume for muscle growth, and more.Steve's journey in the fitness world began after a near-death experience at the age of 20 where he suffered a severe head injury. During his recovery, he discovered bodybuilding, which helped him regain control of his life and ignited his passion for self-improvement.With over a decade of gym experience and years of coaching experience, Steve has definitely made a name for himself in the world of natural bodybuilding, placing second at the WNBF World finals in 2021. Steve's approach to training and nutrition is grounded in the latest scientific research, which he combines with extensive practical knowledge to help his clients achieve outstanding results.Today, you’ll learn all about:3:19 The link between bodybuilding and personal values8:16 "Training hard" for hypertrophy13:56 RIR and proximity to failure vs. other hypertrophy principles19:20 Assessing repetition ranges28:42 Applying research findings to individual training39:43 Assessing and optimizing individual response to training44:52 Full Range of Motion (ROM) vs. partial reps52:22 Developing personal heuristics for effective training59:39 The question Steve wished Philip had asked1:01:35 Where to find Steve1:02:20 OutroEpisode resources:Steve’s coaching and podcast website: revivestronger.comIG: @revivestrongerThe Improvement Season Podcast💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

When it comes to long-term health, vitality, body composition and avoiding metabolic disease and obesity, there is one thing that matters above all and is a complete game changer...It's NOT weight loss.Forget what you've been told about weight loss being the holy grail of health. This episode is set to revolutionize your perspective on fitness and vitality. There is an unsung hero of our metabolic system that is the key to longevity and disease resilience. For anyone who's been fixated on the bathroom scale, prepare to shift your focus to the real powerhouse of health.Find out what it is on today's Quick Wits.--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Why does hunger strike when you're cutting calories? Do you want to know the best way to curb hunger during fat loss?In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) dives into the fascinating world of hunger, the science behind it, and how it affects your fat loss journey. He talks about the hunger hormones — leptin and ghrelin and how stress and cortisol can make you crave that extra snack. He shares nine practical strategies to help you stay on track and how protein, spices, and water play an important role in these real-life hacks.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:51 Hunger during a calorie deficit4:45 The science of hunger7:46 Cortisol's role in hunger and appetite10:55 Managing hunger with quality of sleep12:34 Influence of the senses on hunger19:22 Nine hunger hacks35:40 OutroEpisode resources:Download Your FREE Hunger Hacks Guide💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram

Don't eat this, don't eat that. Are you sick and tired of all the don'ts when it comes to diet? All the no's and the can't's and the bad's?We're getting rid of all of that. We're going to flip things around and explore additive nutrition. This is a liberating, freeing approach to focusing on what to ADD IN your diet rather than what to cut out...on today's Quick Wits.Wave goodbye to the tyranny of dietary restriction and say hello to a life of nutritional abundance. This episode is your ticket to embracing additive nutrition, a joyous pivot from what you 'can't have' to what you 'can add' to enhance your health and vitality. You will learn about a perspective on eating that celebrates the diversity of foods that can enrich your meals and your life. Today, we're all about enriching your plate with the essentials our bodies crave, from proteins that repair and build muscle, to fibers that bolster our digestive health. It's not just about the food; it's about cultivating a positive relationship with eating, acknowledging it as a nurturing act rather than a source of guilt. Let's revolutionize the way we think about meals, focusing on the satiating power of nutritious choices to naturally replace those less beneficial eats. Join me, and let's transform not just our diets, but our approach to food as the nourishing fuel propelling us toward our goals.--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram