Self-Selecting

In this episode of the Self Selecting Podcast, I take a deep dive into Anavar, one of the most commonly discussed and misunderstood oral anabolic steroids in physique sports. Drawing from real experience, we break down the misconceptions, physiological effects, and potential long-term consequences of using Anavar — especially for bikini competitors.I talk about why "Anavar is harmless" is one of the most dangerous myths, how the fitness industry often misuses it for fat loss, and why your genetics, goals, and timing must dictate its application — if at all. Whether you’re currently cycling or just curious about PEDs in the bodybuilding space, this conversation is a must-listen before making any decisions.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 00:56] – Opening thoughts: real regrets and revisiting Anavar use- [00:56 – 02:54] – Why “Anavar is harmless” is a dangerous myth- [02:54 – 05:12] – The direction bikini bodybuilding is going & the PED conversation- [05:12 – 07:06] – Explaining what Anavar actually is: origin, function, anabolic profile- [07:06 – 09:08] – Anavar’s real potential: does it help build muscle or burn fat?- [09:08 – 10:52] – Liver toxicity and why “mild” doesn’t mean safe- [10:52 – 12:26] – Cardiovascular risk: how Anavar negatively impacts your lipids- [12:26 – 15:13] – Why an Anavar-only cycle is problematic- [15:13 – 17:45] – Understanding Anavar’s half-life and timing mistakes- [17:45 – 20:41] – Using it for fat loss: the industry’s biggest misuse- [20:41 – 23:27] – The myth of Anavar as a “hardening agent”- [23:27 – 26:05] – Overdosing and staying on Anavar for too long- [26:05 – 29:11] – “Should I use Anavar in the off-season?” Pros and cons- [29:11 – 32:00] – Wrapping up: takeaways for competitors considering PEDs- [32:00 – 34:04] – Real-world impact vs expectations: why results may disappoint- [34:04 – 36:15] – Final notes on risk, responsibility, and being honest with your goalsLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I sit down with bikini competitor Elisabet Vang to discuss what it truly takes to isolate and develop the glutes, train with intensity during prep, and avoid common programming mistakes in the bikini division. We dig into why blindly following a plan won’t get you the physique you’re after, how to adjust your training mindset, and what role performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) actually play when paired with suboptimal intensity.We break down how movement intention, not just movement selection, matters—especially in the context of the hip thrust. Elisabet shares how she's refined her form and effort over time, and we both get honest about what’s required to train like a pro in bikini when the division lacks standardized criteria.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 03:40] - Intro: Meet Elisabet Vang and the training topic at hand- [03:40 – 07:20] - Program design, progression, and glute isolation philosophy- [07:20 – 11:00] - Problems with common programming and movement patterns- [11:00 – 14:40] - Overusing hip thrusts and what’s missing from execution- [14:40 – 18:20] - Not just what you do—but how you do it (neuromuscular connection)- [18:20 – 22:00] - What you’ve actually done to isolate glutes- [22:00 – 25:40] - When the hip thrust becomes a crutch vs a tool- [25:40 – 29:20] - Getting real with intensity: effort during training- [29:20 – 33:00] - PED use: it’s not a shortcut if you lack effort- [33:00 – 36:40] - Form, feel, and focusing too much on a checklist- [36:40 – 40:20] - Executing during fat loss: intensity matters more- [40:20 – 44:00] - Lifting heavy when calories are low- [44:00 – 47:40] - The truth about “standards” in bikini training- [47:40 – 51:20] - How training individuality matters more than rules- [51:20 – 55:12] - Final takeaways and building longevity in bikiniLinks & Resources:Follow Elisabet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisabetvang_ifbbpro/?hl=enhttps://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I dive into a comprehensive comparison of the Bikini, Wellness, and Figure divisions, breaking down exactly what makes each category unique. Whether you’re deciding which division to pursue or reevaluating your current path, this episode will help you understand the judging criteria, common misconceptions, and how to assess your own physique realistically.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:47] – Intro and setting the stage for division breakdowns- [02:47 – 05:27] – Bikini: what the judges look for- [05:27 – 06:48] – Breaking down Wellness structure and shape- [06:48 – 08:02] – Bikini athletes transitioning to Wellness too soon- [08:02 – 08:41] – What separates Figure from the rest- [08:41 – 14:45] – How conditioning varies for each division- [14:45 – 17:05] – Bikini vs. Wellness: criteria vs. competition realities- [17:05 – 21:24] – Sacrificing waistlines in pursuit of glutes- [21:24 – 25:24] – Bikini balance myth and quad vs. glute development- [25:24 – 28:41] – Comparing muscle mass across Bikini, Wellness, and Figure- [28:41 – 30:39] – Knowing your ceiling in Figure before transitioning- [30:39 – 34:00] – How to assess if you’re ready for another division- [34:00 – 37:00] – Are you actually ready for Wellness or just carrying more fat?- [37:00 – 39:46] – Embracing discomfort in Wellness and Figure- [39:46 – 41:52] – The discipline needed to maintain division-level conditioningLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I dive deep into a question many physique-focused individuals face: How much does body fat percentage really matter? From DEXA scans and calipers to at-home smart scales, I break down the science, the myths, and the practicality of various body fat measurement tools.I also discuss what truly impacts scan results—like sodium, hydration, and the time of day—and why getting too caught up in a number might hurt more than help. If you’ve ever second-guessed a scan or obsessed over lean body mass, this episode is your guide to understanding the data and using it to actually move the needle in your health and fitness goals.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 01:10] - Intro: The confusion around body fat percentage- [01:10 – 05:50] - Why we obsess over body fat numbers and what to ask instead- [05:51 – 10:31] - Misconceptions about lean body mass and DEXA scans- [10:32 – 11:27] - What DEXA really tells you—and what it doesn’t- [11:28 – 18:22] - BOD POD accuracy and use in real-world settings- [18:23 – 21:49] - Hydrostatic weighing: gold standard or outdated?- [21:50 – 23:59] - Calipers: are they still valid in 2024?- [24:00 – 29:55] - BIA tech: from gyms to doctor’s offices- [29:56 – 32:34] - At-home scales and MRI/CT scans for tracking fat- [32:35 – 33:59] - What makes these tools vary so much? (hydration, sodium, time)- [34:00 – 38:46] - Pitfalls of body scans: tracking wrong data- [38:47 – 40:31] - How sodium, carbs, and water impact scan readings- [40:32 – 42:28] - Build a routine for consistency in tracking- [42:29 – 46:29] - How to track trends, not obsess over numbers- [46:30 – 48:59] - Spotting when muscle is being lost in a cut- [49:00 – 52:12] - Final takeaways: stop chasing body fat percentageLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I sit down with Nick Ridpath to unpack common myths, mistakes, and overcomplications around glute training. From misunderstood exercise programming to improper warm-ups and misguided attachment to weight, we discuss what really matters in developing strong, functional glutes. We also break down common errors in RDLs, share thoughts on hip thrusts, and dive deep into programming around pain, progress, and performance.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 01:29] – Intro and setting the stage for today’s glute-focused conversation- [01:30 – 05:49] – The truth about “special” glute programs and why simple usually wins- [05:50 – 08:39] – How overcomplicating movements sabotages glute growth- [08:40 – 12:41] – Assessment for glute-dominant training and understanding diminishing returns- [12:42 – 16:41] – Most common RDL mistakes I see and how to fix them- [16:42 – 20:23] – Managing and preventing lower back pain during RDLs- [20:24 – 24:44] – Glute pumps ≠ glute growth: what to prioritize instead- [24:45 – 29:59] – Emotional attachment to heavy weights and its downside- [30:00 – 31:29] – The warm-up mistake holding your glute training back- [31:30 – 35:59] – Why smart exercise selection matters more than intensity- [36:00 – 38:42] – The most overlooked variable in glute-focused programs- [38:43 – 42:59] – Thoughts on hip thrusts: are they overrated or misunderstood?- [43:00 – 45:59] – Why I prefer the 45-degree hip extensio- [46:00 – 50:04] – Training glutes to failure: how far is too far?- [50:05 – 56:21] – Programming reps, rest, and recovery for real progressLinks & Resources:Follow Nick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickridpath_/?hl=enWork With Nick: https://www.unbranded-performance.com/contactJoin The Advisory Membership Portal: https://www.unbranded-performance.com/advisoryhttps://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I take a deep dive into evaluating whether the Fit Model division is the right fit for you. From physique structure and muscle mass to fat loss capability and PED stance, I walk you through the exact criteria I use to help competitors make informed decisions. We discuss how your ability to maintain conditioning, previous stage experience, and rate of muscle gain all impact division selection. Whether you're an aspiring competitor or a coach, this episode will give you the clarity you need to align your training and aesthetic goals with the right division.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:00] – Intro: What to consider when choosing a competition division- [02:00 – 06:01] – What makes Fit Model different: Aesthetic and division criteria- [06:02 – 06:54] – Conditioning expectations in Fit Model and where competitors go wrong- [06:55 – 09:27] – Judging inconsistencies: Pros penalized vs regional wins from conditioning- [09:28 – 11:13] – Learning to read between the lines of judge feedback- [11:14 – 14:19] – Bikini division: Why structure often determines outcome- [14:20 – 16:00] – Are you too muscular for Bikini? Recognizing physique mismatches- [16:01 – 18:52] – Have you competed before? Using past experience to assess goals- [18:53 – 23:14] – How much fat do you need to lose—and how fast can you do it?- [23:15 – 26:59] – Metabolic rate, dietary fatigue, and ease of fat loss- [27:00 – 30:00] – Assessing your muscle mass: Are you too big or not big enough?- [30:01 – 32:52] – How easily do you gain muscle? Training response and growth potential- [32:53 – 35:14] – PEDs in competition: What is your stance and why it matters- [35:15 – 39:34] – PED overview: Critical self-assessment questions before deciding- [39:35 – 43:14] – Psychological readiness and practical decision-making- [43:15 – 45:46] – Final takeaways: Align your physique, mindset, and goalsLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I walk you through the full checklist I use with clients to determine if they’re ready to use PEDs. This isn’t just about physical progress—it’s about mindset, consistency, labs, recovery, and long-term health.We talk about the real risks of PEDs, including androgenic side effects, fertility complications, and long-term suppression of your hormonal axis. I explain why “maxing out your natural potential” isn’t always black and white, and how I help clients make smarter, slower, and safer decisions when it comes to physique enhancement.If you’re curious about PEDs but unsure where you stand, this episode gives you the tools to assess your readiness and protect your future.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 01:10] – Introduction: Why this conversation matters- [01:10 – 02:35] – A client’s curiosity about PEDs for aesthetics—not competition- [02:35 – 04:05] – What PEDs are and how I define “readiness” for them- [04:05 – 06:00] – Goal clarity: abstract vs concrete physique goals- [06:00 – 08:11] – The danger of having no clear end point when using PEDs- [08:11 – 10:05] – How to set physique goals that avoid long-term PED misuse- [10:05 – 12:14] – The difference between anabolic and non-androgenic PEDs- [12:14 – 14:21] – Why virilization still happens and how to minimize risk- [14:21 – 16:34] – “Should I wait to max out my natural potential?”- [16:34 – 18:36] – PEDs as compensation vs optimization- [18:36 – 20:43] – The bloodwork baseline: labs you must get done first- [20:43 – 23:10] – Health red flags and hidden comorbidities to watch for- [23:10 – 26:22] – Fertility concerns: menstrual cycle, ovulation, egg/sperm preservation- [26:22 – 30:05] – HPA axis suppression, cycle design, and post-cycle recovery- [30:05 – 36:39] – Informed consent, when to wait, and making a decision you won’t regretLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode of the "Self Selecting" podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with Allison Testu, a top-tier bikini pro whose name has been on my vision board since I got back into competing in 2020. In this conversation, Allison and I talk about the evolution of her physique, navigating the expectations of the bikini division, and the emotional and strategic challenges that come with chasing the “perfect” look on stage. From dealing with too much muscularity to rebalancing her proportions for the judges, Allison shares the behind-the-scenes details of what it truly takes to adapt and stay competitive at the highest level.We dive into posing, training, body composition, PED usage, and the judgment disparities across countries and judges. Allison also opens up about her personal motivations, struggles with feedback, and the emotional ties to her competitive journey. Whether you're a competitor or a fan of the sport, this is an unmissable episode filled with raw insights, hard truths, and elite-level dedication.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 02:00] – Allison’s competition legacy and vision board inspiration- [02:00 – 04:25] – Her transformation from intuitive eating to stepping on stage- [04:25 – 06:16] – The Arnold look and why it remains Allison’s personal favorite- [06:16 – 08:02] – Judges' feedback: “Too much everything” and recalibrating- [08:02 – 10:47] – Misconceptions about physique standards via social media- [10:47 – 12:09] – From Ohio to Pittsburgh to New York: Competing after critique- [12:09 – 14:15] – Considering and rejecting the transition to wellness- [14:15 – 16:29] – The toll of pushing muscularity and reversing back to bikini- [16:29 – 18:39] – Glute training specificity and manipulating proportions- [18:39 – 21:17] – Reducing leg and hip mass for the ideal bikini aesthetic- [21:17 – 23:50] – Reprogramming training to bring up glutes and downsize other areas- [23:50 – 26:16] – The emotional and physical toll of year-round precision- [26:16 – 29:37] – Struggles with maintaining peak look across multiple shows- [29:37 – 33:42] – PEDs, post-show muscle retention, and smart enhancement strategies- [33:42 – 36:39] – The importance of timely recovery, strict structure, and off-season habits- [36:39 – 40:45] – Europe vs. US judging, Tyler’s feedback, and maintaining feedback focus- [40:45 – 45:23] – Femininity, feedback growth, and why Allison keeps pushing forwardLinks & Resources:Follow Allison on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisontestu/?hl=enPose With Allison: https://calendly.com/allisontestuhttps://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I walk you through exactly what it takes to get truly shredded—and why so many people miss the mark. Whether you're aiming for visible abs, striated shoulders, or that next-level lean physique, there’s a lot more to it than just lowering calories and adding cardio.From setting the right goal, to understanding your body’s fat storage patterns, to creating a plan that actually works, this episode covers it all. I also dive into self-coaching vs. hiring a coach, how to spot when you're just getting smaller vs. leaner, and how to audit your own progress like a pro.If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why am I not getting leaner?”—this is the clarity you’ve been waiting for.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 04:26] – Intro and goal of the episode: how to actually get shredded- [04:26 – 05:09] – What does "shredded" mean to YOU? Define it clearly- [05:09 – 08:35] – Body fat distribution: why everyone stores fat differently- [08:35 – 11:13] – The real reason behind physique goals (self-worth, confidence)- [11:13 – 14:02] – Understanding your "why": social validation and self-image- [14:02 – 16:40] – Creating a realistic fat loss plan based on your goals- [16:40 – 20:58] – Diet breaks, discouragement, and rate of loss strategy- [20:58 – 23:27] – Adjusting expectations as you get leaner- [23:27 – 30:30] – Execution: where most people fail & the role of food tracking- [30:30 – 34:00] – Check-ins: how often, what data to collect, and why- [34:00 – 35:38] – Should you coach yourself or hire a coach?- [35:38 – 38:18] – Check-in quality: body comp, biofeedback, and training footage- [38:18 – 40:45] – Posing, honesty, and assessing true adherence- [40:45 – 44:12] – Knowing when to adjust: are you getting leaner or just smaller?- [44:12 – 45:23] – The trade-offs of shredded: fatigue, libido, sustainabilityLinks & Resources:https://coryfit.com/⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this solo episode, I walk you through the three kinds of people who should strongly consider stopping their diet—and why doing so could drastically improve your physique, hormonal health, and overall quality of life.I share real experiences from my own journey and client transformations where conditioning became a crutch, not a solution, and where adherence and lifestyle realities need to be factored into the strategy. I also tackle the dangers of staying too lean for too long, especially for women in prep or post-show.Whether you’re a competitor chasing glute tie-ins, someone struggling with consistency, or simply staying lean to your detriment—this episode is a call to reassess, reset, and reframe what true long-term progress really looks like.Timestamps:- [00:00 – 01:31] – Intro: Who this episode is for and why it matters- [01:31 – 04:07] – Person #1: Chasing tie-ins without enough muscle- [04:07 – 06:46] – Why over-dieting can lead to poor stage placement- [06:46 – 08:50] – How to know when it’s time to commit to a build- [08:50 – 10:33] – Recomp vs mild surplus: what actually works long term- [10:33 – 11:13] – You can’t build muscle in a deficit (the truth)- [11:13 – 16:13] – Person #2: Struggling with adherence & weekend failures- [16:13 – 17:36] – Post-show honesty & how to reset expectations- [17:36 – 20:30] – Are you dieting too cautiously to see results?- [20:30 – 23:20] – Person #3: Staying lean year-round & the risks- [23:20 – 26:07] – Signs that you’re too lean (hormones, strength, mood)- [26:07 – 27:44] – How to transition out of a prep or aggressive diet- [27:44 – 30:35] – Full recap: the 3 people who should hit pause on dieting- [30:35 – 32:29] – FAQ #1: If I only fail on weekends, should I still stop- [32:29 – 34:58] – FAQ #2: How do I know if staying lean is harming me?Links & Resources: https://coryfit.com/Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15minConsults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultationFor more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink