The Absolute Strength Podcast

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer fat loss questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   The questions on the show: I’ve been in a calorie deficit for months, but my weight won’t budge. What am I doing wrong? Do you recommend a specific macro split for fat loss, or is it just about protein and calories? For example, I love carbs. Can I still eat a lot of them and lose fat? How do you feel about cheat meals during a cut? Do they actually help, or just slow down fat loss? Hey Kyle, how do you stay consistent with fat loss when life gets crazy with work, kids, social events, etc.? What do you guys think is the biggest mistake bodybuilders make when trying to get stage-lean? I know there are no real health benefits to alcohol, but how bad is it for fat loss? Can I still have a few drinks and make progress? Do you ever recommend aggressive mini-cuts or is a slower approach always better? If a powerlifter wants to move down a weight class, how long should they take to do it without wrecking their total?   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into fat loss supplements and drugs. As always, we cut through the hype, separate science from marketing, and break down what actually works. From over-the-counter supplements like caffeine and yohimbine to more advanced compounds like clenbuterol and GLP-1 agonists, we cover the pros, cons, and potential risks of each. Whether you're looking for an extra edge in your fat loss phase or just want to be more informed about what's out there, this episode has you covered. Sit back, relax, and enjoy! Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into the best way to train for fat loss—without sacrificing strength or muscle. We break down why strength training should be the foundation of any fat loss plan, how to structure your workouts, and the right way to use cardio as a tool (without overdoing it). We also cover common mistakes that can slow your progress, the importance of NEAT (non-exercise activity thermogenesis), and how to balance lifting, cardio, and recovery for sustainable fat loss. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into the fundamentals of fat-loss nutrition. We break down what actually matters when it comes to shedding body fat—calories, macros, food choices, and more—while cutting through the noise of fad diets and misinformation. Whether your goal is to get lean for performance, aesthetics, or overall health, we give you practical strategies you can apply right away. Plus, we share common mistakes and how to set yourself up for long-term success. So grab a notebook, and let's get into it!  Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I'm joined once again by Jim Wendler, author and creator of the popular 5/3/1 program. Making his third appearance on the show, Jim shares his insights on why the fitness industry needs more training guidance tailored to the everyday lifter. We also dive into the idea that your identity in the gym is defined by effort, not just numbers, and discuss his experiences coaching high school football players. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the conversation!   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/     Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into one of the biggest nutrition myths out there—the idea that certain foods are "good" or "bad." If you've ever felt guilty about eating eggs, red meat, white bread, or chocolate, this episode is for you. The truth is, no single food will make or break your progress. It all comes down to context, portion control, and your overall diet. We'll break down why labeling foods as off-limits can actually do more harm than good and go over some of the most commonly demonized foods that you can absolutely include in your diet while still making gains. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into a topic that hits home for so many of us: the truth about why most people aren't reaching their fitness goals. Spoiler alert—it's not because they need more information or the latest program. It's because they need to focus on better execution and consistency. We break down the mindset shifts, practical strategies, and no-nonsense advice to help you stop overthinking and start taking action. If you've ever felt stuck despite knowing what to do, this episode is for you. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer a variety of listener questions. We dive into topics like workout efficiency, balancing intensity and volume, the benefits of saunas and steam rooms, the role of genetics in strength and muscle building, and the recent pushback against evidence-based lifting. Tune in for practical advice, and stay for the endless banter. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Questions on the show: If a routine calls for four sets of 10 reps on something like an Incline press or cable chest flies, and instead, since you want to make your workout shorter, you do one set of 10, then wait 15 to 30 seconds and do three sets of whatever you can get but still around failure, is that as effective for muscle growth as doing one set of 10, then waiting two minutes and repeating until all four sets are done? I know you guys talk a lot about training close to failure, but how do you balance pushing hard on big compound lifts, lifts, specifically squats and deadlifts, staying safe and avoiding injury? What’s your take on saunas and steam rooms? Do you think the cardiovascular and respiratory health benefits make them a valuable addition to a routine? How much do genetics really matter for building muscle and gaining strength? I hear mixed opinions - some people say they’re everything, while others say hard work beats genetics every time. Why do you think there has been more pushback lately to evidence-based lifting and the scientific lifting community?    Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into the hierarchy of training and nutrition importance, breaking down the layers of success. It’s a valuable refresher to help you focus on what truly matters and what actually drives progress. We also challenge the noise on social media, where the spotlight often shines on the least important aspects of nutrition and training. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss 5 fitness tests we think everyone should be able to do. We are calling it the 2025 Absolute Strength Podcast Challenge. Can you pass the test? Listen to the episode to find out what they are. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/services/   Connect with Kyle: KyleHuntFitness@gmail.com http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/   Connect with Derek: @DerekCharlebois https://www.prbreaker.com/   Programs: Powerbuilding: Absolute Progress 2.0 Powerlifting: Absolute Strength 3.0 Bodybuilding: Absolute Muscle   Get 10% OFF PR Breaker Supplements: DISCOUNT CODE: "HUNT" at https://www.prbreaker.com/discount/HUNT