The Exercise Mechanic Podcast

On this episode of The Exercise Mechanic Podcast, we sit down with industry powerhouse Chris Fudge to break down what it really takes to succeed as a personal trainer. From his military upbringing to the grind of his early years, Chris drops wisdom on: ✅ The #1 mistake new trainers make (and how to avoid it)✅ Why mentorship & team support can make or break your career✅ The real difference between in-person vs. online coaching✅ How data collection & tracking can take client results to the next level✅ The secret sauce to client retention & renewals Chris doesn’t just talk the talk—he walks it. He gets real about weight cutting experiments, setting boundaries with clients, and leading by example in a way that actually inspires. Plus, we wrap it up with rapid-fire questions that uncover what fuels his passion for the industry. This is not an episode to miss! 💥 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Birthday Celebrations 02:32 Lessons from a Military Upbringing 06:41 The Importance of Mentorship 10:42 Building a Strong Team 14:36 Navigating the Early Career Challenges 19:46 Health Struggles in the Early Years 26:35 The Transition to Sustainable Schedules 28:07 The Role of Personal Training in Long-Term Success 32:21 The Value of In-Person Training 36:47 Strategies for Client Renewals 46:45 Understanding Client Needs and Data Collection 49:31 The Importance of Nutrition and Digestive Health 52:14 Going Above and Beyond: The Trainer's Commitment 53:58 Setting Boundaries as a Personal Trainer 58:37 The Role of Personal Experience in Training 01:05:58 Weight Cutting Techniques and Personal Experiences 01:14:01 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

In this episode, Paul Oneid discusses the complexities of the fitness industry, misinformation prevalent among fitness professionals, the barriers that complicate fitness access, and the importance of leadership in coaching. Paul emphasizes the need for coaches to build strong relationships with clients, navigate the power dynamics effectively, and create scalable coaching businesses. We also delve into pricing strategies, the significance of continuing education, and the value of mentorship in accelerating growth and success in the fitness industry. In this conversation, Paul Oneid shares his insights on mastery through repetition, the misapplication of optimal training methods, his personal journey through rehabilitation after a severe injury and much more! This is not a conversation to be missed! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Misinformation in Fitness 02:55 Over-complication in Fitness and Health 05:57 The Role of Leadership in Coaching 08:53 Navigating the Coach-Client Relationship 11:51 Building a Coaching Business 14:53 Scalability and Business Strategy 17:56 Defining Your Coaching Identity 20:57 The Importance of Communication in Coaching 24:03 Common Pitfalls for New Coaches 35:37 The Power of Pricing in Coaching 46:28 The Role of Continuing Education in Trainer Success 51:08 Mastery Through Implementation and Mentorship 56:03 Rehabilitation Journey: Overcoming Injury 01:08:40 Blood Flow Restriction: A Tool for Recovery 01:10:44 Blood Flow Restriction Training Benefits 01:13:40 Pain Tolerance and Recovery 01:16:26 Understanding Pain and Movement 01:19:14 Peptides in Recovery 01:24:56 Coaching Ethics and Client Safety 01:28:44 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast we explore the importance of body image in performance, the need for sustainable habits, and the role of tracking progress in achieving fitness goals. The conversation emphasizes the balance between motivation and discipline, and how identity change can lead to long-term success in fitness. In this conversation, we delve into various strategies for helping clients navigate anxiety, set and achieve goals, and implement behaviour changes. We discuss the importance of metrics, repeated behaviours, and meeting clients where they are in their journey. The conversation emphasizes the power of small changes, the role of education in fostering client buy-in, and practical strategies like implementation intentions and habit stacking. Additionally, we touch on the significance of harm reduction and the potential for pharmacological interventions in certain cases. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 04:39 Business Aspirations and Client Success 11:18 Body Image and Performance Perspectives 18:07 Personal Goals and Professional Growth 23:59 Pain Science and Rehabilitation Insights 29:50 Navigating the Nuances of Chiropractic Care 37:01 The Role of Identity in Sustainable Change 45:48 The Importance of Metrics in Progress Tracking 52:10 Meeting Clients Where They Are 58:12 Harm Reduction Strategies in Dietary Changes 01:05:20 Building Confidence Through Small Wins 01:13:32 The Role of Education in Behavior Change 01:19:37 Implementation Intentions and Habit Stacking 01:25:58 Exploring Additional Options for Clients

In this episode we discuss 12 myths that can negatively impact personal training businesses. We explore various misconceptions about offer pricing, client relationships, sales techniques, and marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's value, teaching clients, and the significance of networking. We also cover effective sales strategies, advocating for hope and optimism over fear, and the significance of working on business strategy rather than just in it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lift Myths 01:38 Myth 1: Cheap Rates Don't Equal More Clients 06:32 Myth 2: Teaching Clients Will Drive Them Away 10:10 Myth 3: Attachment to Outcomes Hurts Sales 13:56 Myth 4: Asking vs. Telling in Client Interactions 19:03 Myth 5: Controversial Content is a Short-Term Strategy 26:59 Nostalgic Sandwiches: A Culinary Journey 30:26 The Art of Niching Down: Finding Your Unique Voice 34:55 The Importance of Authenticity in Training 42:56 Building a Network: The Power of Connections 52:04 Self-Care for Trainers: Prioritizing Your Own Fitness 01:00:45 Selling with Hope: The Power of Optimism 01:02:30 Client Relationships: The Importance of Positive Engagement 01:05:04 Mindset: The Role of Hope and Optimism 01:07:44 Business Strategy: Working On vs. In Your Business 01:11:35 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 01:15:48 Sales Strategy: The Risks of Constant Discounts 01:21:25 Navigating Complexity: Embracing Nuance in Solutions

In this episode we delve into potentially controversial topics surrounding health and weight, the nuances of BMI, and the impact of behavioural factors on health outcomes. The conversation also explores the importance of training in non-ideal positions and the concept of movement optimism, culminating in a discussion about the mechanical impossibility of decompressive muscles. In this conversation we delve into various aspects of fitness, therapy, and the role of the fitness industry in preventative healthcare. We critique popular modalities, discuss the biopsychosocial model in therapy, and emphasize the importance of listening in healthcare settings. The conversation also touches on perceived credibility in coaching, the necessity of core training, and the broader implications of fitness on societal health and well-being. Enjoy! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 03:01 Client Experiences and Rehabilitation Insights 05:51 Navigating Client Trauma and Gym Experiences 08:49 The Importance of Self-Worth in Fitness 12:07 Controversial Health Perspectives 17:47 Understanding Health Beyond Weight 23:46 Behavioral Influences on Health Outcomes 31:07 Training in Awkward Positions 34:42 The Importance of Specificity in Training 38:56 Building Robustness Through Diverse Movements 41:53 Understanding Pain vs. Injury 46:42 Debunking Decompression Myths 52:38 The Biopsychosocial Model in Interventions 57:26 Perceived Credibility in Coaching 01:01:14 The Role of Trainers in Client Success 01:05:16 Empathy Through Experience 01:09:59 Core Training: Necessity or Myth? 01:19:09 The Fitness Industry as Preventative Healthcare

In this episode of The Exercise Mechanic, Dr. Derek Wilcox shares his journey in powerlifting, the significance of personal goals, and the importance of mentorship in sports. He discusses the role of hypertrophy in strength training, the balance between general and specific training, and the concept of strength reserve. Dr. Wilcox emphasizes the importance of communication in coaching, the ethical responsibilities of fitness professionals, and the need for a solid understanding of anatomy and biomechanics. He also touches on recovery strategies and the impact of stress on athletic performance, concluding with rapid-fire questions that reveal his personal insights and values. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:05 The Power of a Personal List 04:53 The Journey to World Records 08:01 Influences and Mentorship in Strength Sports 17:04 Hypertrophy Training and Strength Outcomes 21:21 Balancing General and Specific Training 22:16 Strength as a Foundation for Performance 24:29 The Importance of Recovery 31:37 Communication in Coaching 38:15 Ethics in Strength and Conditioning 48:23 Rapid/ Medium Fire Questions

In this episode Etienne Ryan and Brett reflect on their recent teaching experiences, discussing the importance of engagement, nuance, and adaptability in fitness education. They explore the challenges of maintaining an open mind, the role of experience in learning, and the impact of good teaching on student perceptions. The conversation also touches on personal growth through mistakes, the nature of attraction beyond physicality, and practical advice for fostering open-mindedness in the fitness space. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Weekend Reflections 06:06 Teaching Dynamics and Engagement 11:59 The Importance of Nuance in Fitness 17:28 Life Experience in Training 23:14 What Makes a Good Student? 36:35 Empathy and Persuasion in Conversations 42:23 The Importance of Definitions in Discourse 49:49 Attraction Beyond Physical Appearance 57:04 The Value of Diverse Interests 01:07:57 Advice for Maintaining an Open Mind

In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast we discuss the increasing use of GLP-1 agonists in bodybuilding, particularly focusing on Ryan's experience with Retatrutide, the health implications of weight loss, the importance of insulin sensitivity in bodybuilding, and the dynamics of client relationships in coaching. The conversation emphasizes the need for tough love, the power of listening, and the balance between guiding clients and allowing them to take responsibility for their health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context Setting 02:46 Exploring GLP-1 Agonists in Bodybuilding 05:53 The Science Behind Ritartritide 08:48 Effects and Side Effects of GLP-1 Agonists 11:56 The Role of Insulin Sensitivity in Bodybuilding 14:47 Massing vs. Cutting: A Balanced Approach 17:45 Practical Applications for Athletes 20:59 Understanding Nutrient Partitioning 23:51 The Importance of Health in Competitive Sports 26:50 Conclusion and Future Considerations 37:57 Understanding the Gray Areas in Fitness Training 42:29 The Importance of Communication Skills in Coaching 47:07 Navigating the Transition from In-Person to Online Coaching 51:06 Balancing Professionalism and Personal Connection with Clients 56:49 The Role of Tough Love in Client Relationships

Join hosts Etienne Asselin and Ryan Taylor as they discuss their recent teaching tour across Canada, sharing highlights and insights from their experiences. They emphasize the importance of connection with students, the nuances of training, and the role of details in effective client training. The conversation also delves into critical thinking, skepticism in mentorship, and the necessity of civil discourse in the fitness industry. They conclude with reflections on their future plans and the evolution of their teaching methods. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Travel Adventures 03:06 Teaching Highlights and Experiences 06:14 The Importance of Relationships in Teaching 09:19 Understanding the Nuances of Training 12:05 The Role of Details in Client Training15:31The Complexity of Human Clients 18:15 Learning from Extremes in Training 21:12 The Importance of a Broad Knowledge Base 24:09 The Interconnectedness of Training Disciplines 37:35 Pressure Testing Systems for Improvement 38:48 The Value of Diverse Learning in Fitness 40:14 The Dangers of Blindly Following Mentors 42:07 The Importance of Skepticism in Learning 43:52 Navigating the Risks of Intellectual Blindness 46:11 The Role of Open-Mindedness in Critical Thinking 46:41 Understanding Skepticism vs. Contrarianism 49:22 The Importance of Changing One's Mind 51:44 Constructive Disagreement in Professional Relationships 56:02 The Necessity of Civil Discourse for Progress 58:54 Finding Common Ground in Discourse 01:02:36 Wrapping Up: Future Endeavors and Reflections

In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast, hosts Etienne Asselin, Ryan Taylor, and Brett Patterson discuss various themes related to fitness, including client successes, the differences between bodybuilding and endurance sports, the importance of mental health in competitive environments, and the need for critical thinking in the fitness industry. They also explore the dangers of conflating personal identity with professional opinions and the significance of maintaining a balance between enjoyment and discipline in fitness pursuits. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the nature of mastery and the importance of being open to new ideas and evidence. 00:00 Exploring Coaching Responsibilities 03:08 The Journey of Bodybuilding Competitions 06:16 Endurance Sports vs. Bodybuilding 09:12 The Importance of Enjoyment in Training 11:47 Understanding Body Composition and Muscle Growth 19:51 The Balance of Body Weight in Endurance Performance 27:14 Identity and Ideas in the Fitness Industry 43:28 Navigating Mental Challenges in Training and Competition 43:57 The Pursuit of Knowledge and Nuance in Fitness