

Do You Even Lift Bro?
Presented by Garage Gym Experiment
A bi-weekly podcast hosted by @mattpendergraph and @kaizendiygym covering a wide range of home gym topics.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 14, 2024 β’ 58min
Designing the Future of Home Gym Equipment: Inside the Mind of Adam Yousfi
Description
In this episode, Kyle and Michael interview Adam Yousfi, a product designer specializing in strength equipment. Adam shares his journey from IT to designing gym equipment, his collaborations with Bells of Steel and Fringe Sport, and insights into the evolution of home gym equipment. The conversation delves into the differences between commercial and home gym equipment, the importance of networking in the fitness industry, and the challenges of intellectual property in design. Adam also teases upcoming projects with Bells of Steel and FRINGE Sports and reflects on his proudest achievements in equipment design.
Get in touch with Adam: https://www.instagram.com/adamy0usfi/
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Chapters
(0:00) Introduction and Background
(7:46) The Importance of Unique and Visually Distinct Products in Equipment Design
(12:36) Starting in Gym Equipment Design
(16:05) Collaboration with Bells of Steel
(18:12) Achieving True Three by Three Design18:15 Navigating Patents and Avoiding Infringement in the Design Process
(20:01) Collaboration with Fringe Sport
(24:17) Upcoming Projects with Fringe Sport
(26:55) Teasing the Dragonfly Rack Attachment
(27:26) The Need for Innovation in Commercial Gym Equipment
(39:32) Projects: True Movement Machine and Bells of Steel Tower
(47:24) Pride in Designing and Excitement for Future Projects
Follow
Follow Michael on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicelikemike__/
Follow Kyle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kaizendiygym
Follow Michael on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JsmAFsAGqRpyWMNxL15Qw
Follow Kyle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFGCfbYPyFpITa0mbwbTmhA

Aug 30, 2024 β’ 1h 29min
Darko Lifts!
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Summary
In this conversation, Darko, Mike, and Kyle discuss their experiences with HomeGymCon and the importance of collaboration in the home gym community. They also touch on the issue of copycat products and the challenges faced by small businesses. Darko shares his frustration with another company copying his product design and the impact it has on his business. They also discuss the difficulty of obtaining patents and the financial implications for small businesses. Overall, the conversation highlights the value of working together and supporting one another in the home gym community. Darko discusses his philosophy behind creating products for his home gym and the challenges of pricing and manufacturing. He also talks about upcoming products, including spotter arms, mini versions of popular equipment, and customizable racks. In this conversation, Darko discusses his collaboration with Rogue Fitness and the challenges and benefits of working with a large company. He also shares his thoughts on the Black Widow VHS bar and its usefulness for overhead pressing. Darko mentions his desire to collaborate with Dialed Motion and talks about his plans to expand his gym setup with a second cable system. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the authenticity of the home gym community and the importance of collaboration.
Episode Outline
(0:00) Introductions and Background
(1:21) The Value of Home Gym Con and Building Relationships
(7:28) Challenges of Dealing with Copycat Products
(20:42) The Design Process and Innovation
(26:22) Best-Selling Products: The Anchor, Shorty Bar, and Dock
(44:58) Challenges of Developing Unique Products
(57:33) Interest in Collaborating with Dialed Motion
(1:08:47) Partnership with Rogue and Appreciation for Their Support
(1:19:00) Impressive Retractor System by Dialed Motion
(1:26:24) Continued Focus on Home Gym Ownership and Manufacturing

Aug 17, 2024 β’ 1h 2min
Gym Equipment Hoarders
Outline
(0:00) The PRX video update
(3:22) Exploring 3D printing
(8:59) The challenges of downsizing a home gym
(21:06) Home Gym Con anticipation
(30:11) Gym Equipment Hoarding
(37:13) The Ethics of Copying Designs
(55:00) Inviting Guests to the Podcast
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Episode Description
In this episode, Michael and Kyle dive into the behind-the-scenes process of Kyle's upcoming PRX video, which has been in the works for a few weeks. They discuss the complexities of gathering footage from multiple sources, the editing process, and the overall storyline that the video will capture. Kyle shares that the video is nearly complete and should be released around the time this podcast goes live.
The conversation then shifts to Michael's 3D printing journey, including the challenges he's faced with extruder clogs due to the Phoenix heat and his experiments with various prints, including miniature home gyms. They also discuss CAD software options and the learning curve associated with designing custom 3D prints.
The hosts touch on Kyle's ongoing move to a new house, the challenges of losing gym space, and the dilemma of deciding which equipment to keep or let go. They also tease future plans for potential shared gym space with Jake and other local home gym enthusiasts.
Follow
Michael on IG
Kyle on IG
Michael on YouTube
Kyle on YouTube

Aug 3, 2024 β’ 1h 2min
LIVIN' IT UP IN FARGO, ND
Summary
Kyle and Michael discuss their experience visiting PRX and the activities they did, including visiting a brewery, going wake surfing, and meeting the PRX team. They talk about the cool artwork at the brewery and their love for unique merchandise. They also share their wake surfing experiences, with Kyle impressing everyone and Jake struggling to stay on the board. They discuss the target demographic of PRX and the potential for expanding their customer base. They also mention the Sensory RX project, a heavy-duty playset for children with sensory needs. During the conversation, Kyle discussed his visit to PRX Performance in Fargo, North Dakota. He mentioned that PRX Performance is open to the public and sells their products locally. Kyle also described his tour of PRX's manufacturing facility, highlighting the impressive size and organization of their warehouse. He mentioned seeing the automated machines used in the manufacturing process, including laser cutting and robotic welding. Kyle also mentioned the positive impression he had of PRX as a company that takes care of its employees and is involved in the community. The conversation also touched on the resolution of the controversy between Kyle and PRX, with both parties expressing a desire to move forward and form a partnership. Additionally, Kyle mentioned Darko Lifting's products being listed on Rogue Fitness' website and discussed his upcoming move and the need to downsize his gym equipment.
Overview
(0:00) Exploring the Brewery and Artwork
(6:27) Impressive Wake Surfing Skills
(13:07) Britton's Pro Wake Surfing
(23:36) Expanding the Target Demographic
(30:53) Introducing Sensory RX
(33:54) Tour of the Manufacturing Facility
(37:06) Positive Impressions of PRX
(41:48) Moving Towards a Partnership
(53:57) Darko Lifting on Rogue Fitness
(1:00:56) Preparing for a Move

Jul 22, 2024 β’ 1h 2min
What Happens in Fargo...
Overview
In this conversation, Kyle and Michael discuss their plans to resolve the Jammergate situation by meeting in person in Fargo. They joke about having a boxing match to settle their differences and plan to document their trip and visit PRX. They also talk about Amazon Prime Day and the offers they have received from Major Fitness to partner with them. Kyle shares his negative experience with the company and his reluctance to work with them. They also discuss the challenges and considerations of partnering with a brand and creating content in exchange for free equipment. They talk about the challenges of budgeting for a gym, organizing events like the Garage Gym Games, and the process of moving and downsizing a gym. They also share their thoughts on gym tour videos, the Rogue Rhino, garage gyms, and the underrated experience of attending HomeGymCon.
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Outline
(0:00) Introduction and Plans for Resolving Jammergate
(1:27) The Boxing Match: Settling Differences
(3:13) Documenting the Trip and Visiting PRX
(6:01) The Truth About Amazon Prime Day
(23:24) The Offer from Major Fitness: Pros and Cons
(31:40) Budgeting and Organizing Events for Home Gyms
(33:01) The Garage Gym Games and Organizational Ideas
(34:21) The Appeal of Participating in the Garage Gym Games
(35:11) The Energy and Fun of Strongman Events
(36:06) The Importance of Sharing Ideas Before They're Ready
(38:47) The Passion and Authenticity of Home Gym Con
(41:54) Personal Experiences with CrossFit Workouts
(46:46) Moving and Downsizing a Gym: Challenges and Opportunities
(50:08) Transitioning to a Garage Gym and Future Plans
(55:45) The Benefits and Limitations of Garage Gyms
(58:03) The Underrated Versatility of the Rogue Rhino
(1:00:54) The Underrated Experience of Home Gym Con
Follow
Follow Michael on IG
Follow Kyle on IG
Follow Michael on YouTube
Follow Kyle on YouTube

Jul 7, 2024 β’ 53min
Jammergate: Updates and the Path Forward
Summary
In this episode, Kyle and Michael dive into the latest developments in the PRx controversy, dubbed "Jammergate." The conversation starts with a recap of the timeline, highlighting key events and responses from PRX. Kyle shares insights from his multiple discussions with PRx's leadership, expressing optimism about finding a collaborative resolution. The hosts emphasize the importance of community support and the potential for positive outcomes.
They also touch on the impact of Coop's video from GarageGymReviews, which reignited discussions and accelerated the negotiation process with PRx. The episode moves on to lighter topics, including home gym equipment hacks, space-saving tips, and anticipation for HomeGymCon β25.
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Chapters
(0:00) Updates and Progress in the PRx Controversy
(3:17) Recognizing Missteps and Second Chances
(9:28) Understanding PRx's Leadership Roles
(14:59) Considering a House with a Dedicated Gym Area
(25:07) The Potential Health Risks of Stall Mats
(26:27) Collecting Gym Equipment
(29:01) Choosing the Right Flooring
(32:16) Home Gym Com
(37:25) Equipment Hacks and Attachments
Follow
Michael on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicelikemike__/
Follow Kyle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kaizendiygym
Follow Michael on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4JsmAFsAGqRpyWMNxL15Qw
Follow Kyle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFGCfbYPyFpITa0mbwbTmhA

Jun 14, 2024 β’ 59min
One HALβOF a Mess: Protecting Innovators in the Gym Equipment Space
Overview
In this episode, Kyle and Michael discuss the turmoil caused by PRx's recent actions in the home gym equipment space, particularly focusing on the controversy surrounding PRx's Halo Arms and their impact on smaller innovators like Vendetta and GymPin. Initially hopeful about a constructive response from PRx, the duo discusses how PRx's eventual statement fell flat, feeling corporate and insincere. They also cover the community's reaction and the broader implications of patenting in the gym equipment industry.
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Timeline of Events
Massenomics Interviews PRx
Kaizen Reacts
Kaizen Update
PRx Response
Chapters
(0:00) PRX's Request and Delayed Podcast Episode
(8:58) Disappointment with PRX's Response Video
(13:42) Backlash from the Home Gym Community
(28:17) Potential for Collaboration in the Home Gym Community
(29:35) Collaborating with PRX and the Potential for Innovative Home Gym Equipment
(31:55) Creating a Safe Space to Incubate Ideas
(39:45) New Equipment Acquisitions: Rogue Rhino and Dane Functional Trainer
(42:36) Choosing the Right Belt Squat Belt
(55:35) Excitement for Home Gym Con 2025 and Potential Cameramen
Follow
Michael on IG
Kyle on IG
Michael on YouTube
Kyle on YouTube

Jun 5, 2024 β’ 52min
Home Gym Overhaul: Conquering Space and Setup
Overview
In this episode hosts Kyle and Michael dive deep into the world of home gyms, exploring the latest trends and personal experiences with fitness equipment. They discuss their recent acquisitions from Home Gym Con, where Kyle returned with an impressive haul including two ATX pieces, a Bells of Steel rack, and a Fringe Osprey rack. The conversation takes a detailed turn into the setup challenges and solutions, highlighting Kyle's inventive approach to fitting new equipment into his space. Michael shares his enthusiasm and slight envy of Kyle's new gear, sparking a broader discussion about gym equipment investments and the joys of upgrading a home gym setup.
Chapters
(0:00 Recent Gym Equipment Purchases and Upgrades)
(2:28) Challenges in Setting Up the Dane
(5:11) The Aries 2.0 and Discount for 1.0 Owners
(8:01) The Importance of Good Customer Service
(12:50) Difficulties of Selling Gym Equipment Online
(24:02) The Rise of Resellers and the Challenges of Selling Equipment
(32:16) The Impact of Home Gym Con 2022 and Future Plans
(36:43) Inspiration for Future Content Creation
(41:36) Reigniting Excitement for Working Out and Setting Fitness Goals
(45:03) The Positive Feedback and Increased Exposure from HomeGymCon

May 5, 2024 β’ 55min
HomeGymCon Magic: People, Products, and Plans
Overview
Home Gym Con was a fantastic weekend filled with camaraderie and excitement. The highlight of the event was the people, with attendees and vendors alike expressing their love for the home gym community. The scale of the event was also impressive, with a significant increase in vendors and attendees compared to the previous year. ATX Equipment stood out as a major contender, with their unique and well-engineered equipment making a big impression. Mayhem's fluorescent flecks plates and other plates also caught attention for their aesthetic appeal. The event provided an opportunity for vendors to connect with the community and gain exposure, emphasizing the importance of engagement and immersion in the home gym community. Home Gym Con 2025 is set to take place in Louisville, Kentucky, with a larger venue and more accessibility. The event has grown significantly since its inception and continues to attract both vendors and attendees. Some big vendors were unable to attend this year, including Sorinex, Bulletproof Fitness, and Giant Lifting. Coop from Garage Gym Reviews also did not attend, sparking some controversy and discussion within the community. The importance of collaboration and support among content creators was emphasized, and the overall experience of Home Gym Con was highly positive and exciting.
Takeaways:
Community Spirit: The hosts emphasize the importance of the people and community at HomeGymCon, noting that many attendees felt the best part of the event was the sense of camaraderie.
Impressive Equipment: The hosts highlight ATX's equipment as particularly innovative and well-engineered, indicating that the company will be a major contender in the US market.
Event Scale: The size and scale of this yearβs event exceeded the hosts' expectations, with more vendors and people in attendance, creating a busy but exciting atmosphere.
Health and Wellness: The hosts note the importance of maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration during events, as they experienced fatigue and exhaustion due to neglecting these aspects.
Future Plans: The hosts are excited about the future of HomeGymCon, particularly with its next venue being more accessible, and encourage others to attend.
Episode Outline:
00:00 The Power of Community
11:55 ATX Equipment: A Major Contender
26:55 Engagement and Immersion: Keys to Success
27:52 Home Gym Con 2025: Bigger Venue, Better Accessibility
32:49 Notable Absences: Vendors and Coop

Apr 17, 2024 β’ 60min
Ask Forgiveness, Not Permission: When Home Gyms Meet Strict Rules
Summary
The podcast episode features a lively discussion between Kyle and Michael, focusing on various aspects of the fitness industry, particularly the nuances of brand management and marketing strategies within niche markets like fitness expos. The conversation revolves around a specific incident involving REP Fitness, which faced consequences for not obtaining permission to use Arnold Expo's branding on their merchandise. This led to a broader discussion on the importance of adhering to brand guidelines and the potential financial implications of such oversights. They also touched on upcoming events like HomeGymCon and shared their personal experiences and insights on product reviews and the dynamics of community engagement within the fitness industry.
Outline
00:00 Controversy and Exclusion: Rep Fitness at the Arnold Expo
07:48 Possibility of Participation: Strongman and Grip Competitions
20:22 The Future of Kabuki Strength
26:38 Favorite Cable Attachments for a Cable Tower Setup
32:52 Mount Rushmore of Cable Attachments
39:13 Angles90 Handles: Love or Hate?
48:07 The Frustration with Affiliate Links
54:15 DIY Pieces That Should Be Brought to Market
Follow Michael on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicelikemike__/
Follow Kyle on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFGCfbYPyFpITa0mbwbTmhA
Follow Kyle on IG: https://www.instagram.com/kaizendiygym