Wits & Weights | Fat Loss, Nutrition, & Strength Training for Lifters
Philip Pape, Evidence-Based Nutrition Coach & Fat Loss Expert
For skeptics of the fitness industry who want to work smarter and more efficiently to build muscle and lose fat. Wits & Weights is one of the best fitness podcasts for evidence-based nutrition and fitness strategies. We cut through the noise and deconstruct health and fitness with an engineering mindset to help you develop a strong, lean physique without wasting time.Evidence-based nutrition coach Philip Pape explores efficient strength training, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies to optimize your body recomp and metabolism. Whether you're focused on weight loss, muscle building, or both, you'll get simple, science-based, and sustainable info from an engineer turned lifter (that's why they call him the Physique Engineer). This show serves both women's fitness and men's health goals, with special attention to strength training over 40 and hormone health.From restrictive fad diets to ineffective workouts and hyped-up supplements, there's no shortage of confusing information out there. Getting in the best shape of your life doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming! By using your WITS (mindset and systems!) and lifting weights efficiently, you can build muscle, lose stubborn fat, and achieve and maintain a lean physique through sustainable body recomp.We bring you smart and efficient strategies for movement, metabolism, muscle, and mindset. You'll learn:- Why fat loss is more important than weight loss for health and physique- Why all the macros (protein, fats, and yes even carbs) are critical to body composition- Why you don't need to spend more than 3 hours in the gym each week to get incredible results with proper hypertrophy training- Why muscle (not weight loss) is the key to medicine, obesity, and longevity- Why age and hormones (even in menopause) don't matter with the right lifestyle- How the "hidden" psychology of your mind can unlock more personal (and physical) growth than you ever thought possible, and how to tap into that mindsetIf you're ready to separate fact from fiction, learn what actually works with evidence-based training and nutrition, and put in the intelligent work, hit that "follow" button and let's engineer your best physique ever!Popular Guests Include: Mike Matthews (author of Bigger Leaner Stronger), Greg Nuckols (Stronger by Science), Alan Aragon (nutrition researcher), Eric Helms (3D Muscle Journey), Dr. Spencer Nadolsky (Doc Who Lifts), Eric Trexler (Stronger by Science), Bill Campbell (exercise science researcher), Jordan Feigenbaum (Barbell Medicine), Andy Morgan (Ripped Body), Karen Martel (hormone optimization expert), Steph Gaudreau (women's strength and nutrition), Bryan Boorstein (hypertrophy coach)Popular Topics Include: hormone health, metabolism optimization, hypertrophy training, longevity and healthy aging, body positivity, best protein powder selection, strength training over 40, women's fitness, men's health, muscle building, body recomp, macros and nutrition tracking
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 30, 2024 • 28min
The Beginner's Guide to Shedding Body Fat Without Losing Muscle | Ep 263
Get your FREE Macros 101 for Body Composition Guide to master your macros and calorie intake for fat loss, muscle gain, and better health, including workout nutrition for performance and recovery and a long-lasting approach WITHOUT depriving yourself of foods you love.--This is a replay of Ep 197. Originally aired on July 29, 2024 as: Your Very First Cut (Lose 10-30 Pounds of Fat) Do you want to lose 10-30 pounds of fat without sacrificing muscle or energy? Do you know the common pitfalls that derail fat loss and how to avoid them? Are you ready to learn the smarter, more efficient approach to your first cut?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) dives into a smarter and more efficient approach to help you achieve your first successful cut, losing 10 to 30 pounds of fat without drastic measures. He breaks down the process of cutting body fat, addressing common concerns such as calorie counting and training adjustments. Philip also outlines the frequent mistakes many make during their first cut, including unrealistic expectations. He shares essential principles and a step-by-step guide for sustainable fat loss.Tune in to learn how to navigate this journey and unlock the physique you've been working hard to reveal.Today, you’ll learn all about:Mistakes to avoid during your first cutPrinciples for successful and sustainable fat lossStep-by-step guide to implementing a successful cutEpisodes mentioned:Everything You Need to Know About Fat Loss (Simple Strategies for a Fitter, Leaner Body)My Stair-Step Fat Loss Process to Get Lean and RippedMy 3 New Dieting Methods for Smarter, Easier Fat Loss in 2024Why Macros Might Be All You Need to Streamline Your NutritionSpend 70% of Your Time Doing THIS for a Faster Physique Transformation (Rapid Prototyping)Support the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 28, 2024 • 9min
Fat Loss Q&A - Best Time to Work Out, Raw vs. Cooked Calories, Fasted Cardio to Lose Fat
Join our free Facebook group to ask a question and get resources like masterclasses, live Q&As, free guides, and community support--Welcome to the final Q&A of the year, where I answer 3 questions about fat loss to wrap up 2024.If you’ve ever wondered whether workout timing, cooking your veggies, or fasted cardio make a difference in your results, this one’s for you.Today’s questions:Is there a best time of day to work out for fat loss?Does your body absorb fewer calories from raw vegetables vs. cooked ones?Is exercising on an empty stomach (fasted cardio) better for burning fat?Got a question for the podcast? Message me on IG @witsandweights and I’ll feature it in an upcoming episode!Support the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 27, 2024 • 48min
3 Proven Strategies to Master Body Recomposition (Lose Fat and Gain Muscle) | Ep 262
Try MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTS.--This is a replay of Ep 166. Originally aired on April 23, 2024 as: The Body Recomposition Blueprint (Recomp to Build Muscle and Lose Fat at the Same Time) 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 emphasizes patience and consistency, 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:Common misunderstanding about body recompUnderlying body recomp mechanismsThree categories of body recompUsing nutrition for body recompositionSetting your macrosThe significance of effective strength trainingBenefits of proper training and building muscle massPeri-workout nutritionOptimizing health and hormone statusThe importance of mindsetEpisode resources:Watch this FREE video on how to setup MacroFactor for body recompTry MacroFactor FREE with my code WITSANDWEIGHTSSupport the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 25, 2024 • 48min
The Smarter Approach to Fat Loss Beyond Calories and Cardio | Ep 261
Follow Nutrition Science Daily, our new 5-minute weekday morning podcast delivering the latest in nutrition, fat loss, and health science... plus simple tips to help you optimize your diet, build muscle, and improve your health—all before your high-protein breakfast!--This is a replay of Ep 160. Originally aired on April 2, 2024 as: Why “Eat Less, Move More” Is Terrible Advice for Your Metabolism, Hormones, and Fat LossHow 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.Today, you’ll learn all about:Misconceptions about the "eat less, move more" adviceThe importance of muscle mass for metabolismSupporting muscle growth with proteinThe principles of strength training and overloadFueling your body and staying activeAvoiding sedentary behaviorWhy the "eat less, move more" approach is destructiveHydration, sleep, and stress managementChronic stress and its effect on metabolismWhole/unprocessed foods, dairy, grains, and alcoholEpisode resources:Take our FREE Metabolism audit to learn about your metabolic flexibility. Receive a free report and strategy tailored to YOUR results!Support the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 23, 2024 • 41min
The 12-Month Fat Loss and Muscle Gain Blueprint for Your Best Physique in 2025 | Ep 260
Download my free Precision Fat Loss Guide with the 6 core fat loss strategies customized for your experience, goals, and lifestyle (or go to witsandweights.com/free)—Stuck in a bulking and cutting loop without lasting results? Ready to map out 2025 for sustainable gains and fat loss? Want a proven plan to build your dream physique?Philip (@witsandweights) delivers a powerful end-of-year gift: a complete periodization blueprint designed to help you build muscle, lose fat, and achieve sustainable fitness success. He shares the five transformative phases of the yearlong plan, from building foundational habits in body recomp to strategically timed fat loss, anabolic muscle building, and more.Learn how to align your nutrition, training, and lifestyle with each phase to create a roadmap for lifelong progress. Whether your goal is to get lean, pack on serious muscle, or overhaul your physique, this provides the step-by-step plan to crush your goals in 2025. Today, you’ll learn all about:03:31 Phase 1: Body recomp and the power of building systems06:11 The role of tracking09:28 Phase 2: Precision fat loss strategies for sustainable progress16:58 Phase 3: Beach-ready maintenance for recovery and celebration20:58 Phase 4: Six months of anabolic muscle building for transformative gains28:32 Phase 5: Mini cut for the finishing touch on your dream physique35:49 The principles for success40:15 OutroEpisode resources:Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS. The only food logging app that adjusts to your metabolism!Watch this video on setting up MacroFactor for your initial recomp (maintenance) phaseDownload Boostcamp to access 70+ evidence-based workoutsSupport the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 20, 2024 • 41min
The DNA-Based Diet That Uses Epigenetics to Personalize Your Health (Dr. Matt Dawson) | Ep 259
Book a FREE 15-minute Rapid Nutrition Assessment to personalize YOUR strategy for fat loss, muscle gain, and physique development, giving you a 3-step action plan in a fast-paced 15 minutes.—Could your DNA determine how effectively you process carbs or fats? Are you overemphasizing the role of genetics in your health journey? How does epigenetics empower you to shape your health destiny?Philip (@witsandweights) examines the fascinating intersection of genetics, epigenetics, and personalized medicine with Dr. Matt Dawson, physician, entrepreneur, and CEO of Wild Health. They uncover how genes influence health outcomes and the extent to which lifestyle decisions can rewrite the script of DNA. Dr. Dawson explains how Wild Health integrates cutting-edge AI, genomic insights, and precision medicine to optimize performance, longevity, and overall wellness.Dr. Matt Dawson is the co-founder and CEO of Wild Health, a precision medicine company revolutionizing how we approach health by combining genetic insights, blood markers, and lifestyle factors. A trailblazer in genomics-based care, he has trained thousands of doctors worldwide and is dedicated to helping individuals maximize their health potential.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:15 Impact of lifestyle vs. genetics on health outcomes4:06 The science behind actionable genetic insights6:31 Personalizing diet and fitness through genetic testing10:47 How genetic variations influence athletic performance.15:35 The influence of genomics on health and lifestyle18:29 Epigenetics: Unique health paths21:19 Reversing diabetes with personalized medicine and health optimization26:29 Leveraging AI for health insights and prevention31:54 The future of precision medicine with large language models37:50 Why strong relationships are the ultimate longevity hack39:36 OutroEpisode resources:Wild Health PodcastWebsite: wildhealth.com Instagram: @wildhealthmd LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/wildhealth Support the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 18, 2024 • 19min
How Tinsel the Elf Defeated Doubt with Perfect Form (A Holiday Tale of Strength vs Shadows) | Ep 258
Something sinister lurks in the woods around Strong Point, draining elves of their strength, energy, and most terrifyingly... their ability to train close to failure.When a mysterious Shadow Wraith begins targeting the village's most dedicated lifters, making them doubt their form and forget their 1RM, Tinsel must face his greatest challenge yet. Can perfect technique triumph over supernatural doubt?Join us for this special holiday episode as we return to the magical village of Strong Point, where we discover that true strength isn't just about moving weight - it's about moving it with purpose, even when facing your darkest fears.You'll learn that:True strength comes from facing doubts, not denying themPerfect form isn't just about the weight - it's about mastery of movementCommunity support and proper technique can overcome any challengeEven elves need to trainPlus, discover why Mrs. Claus's protein sugar cookies finally stopped tasting like chalk.For more about building real strength (supernatural or otherwise), join my FREE email list at witsandweights.com/emailTinsel’s Origin Story:The Elf Who Wanted to Improve His Health (and Get Jacked)Support the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 16, 2024 • 28min
The Most UNDERRATED Fat Loss Secret Making You FATTER (and Sabotaging Muscle Gain Too) | Ep 257
Download my free Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint to structure your nutrition for optimal muscle gain while minimizing fat gain (or go to witsandweights.com/free)—Are you stuck in a cycle of constant cutting without real progress? Could gaining weight be the key to finally achieving a leaner physique? What if embracing the scale going up is the breakthrough you need?Philip (@witsandweights) explores the paradox of weight gain for fat loss in today’s episode. Discover how your fear of gaining weight might be holding you back and why a strategic muscle-building phase is the missing piece in your fitness journey. Learn actionable steps to break free from the constant cutting cycle and transform your body composition for lasting results.Philip shares real client stories, like Jenna, John, and Mark, whose journeys illustrate how building muscle while temporarily gaining weight can lead to a leaner, stronger, and more defined physique. Whether you're frustrated by slow progress, unsure how to manage a surplus, or looking for clarity on this counterintuitive approach, this delivers the mindset shift you need.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:40 The constant cutting trap and metabolic adaptation4:44 Why building muscle is key to fat loss success8:18 Body composition math: How gaining weight leads to leanness11:10 Energy requirements for muscle growth13:52 Step-by-step guide to starting a muscle-gaining phase17:25 Training and tracking strategies during a surplus18:31 Avoiding pitfalls like gaining too fast or cutting phases short22:07 Patience and mindset: Trusting the process for long-term results26:30 OutroEpisode resources:Download my free Muscle-Building Nutrition BlueprintSupport the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 13, 2024 • 53min
Does YOUR Doctor Lift Weights? (Dr. Spencer Nadolsky) | Ep 256
Download 8 free workout programs for strength and physique, novice and intermediate, 3 and 4 days, full gym and limited equipment, with exercise videos and substitutions or go to witsandweights.com/free—Do doctors really understand your fitness goals? Why do some medical professionals discourage lifting weights? Can the medical system truly embrace lifestyle changes as part of healthcare?Philip (@witsandweights) gets real with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky, a triple board-certified obesity and lipid specialist, former heavyweight wrestler, and co-host of the Docs Who Lift podcast. Dr. Nadolsky brings a refreshing perspective to healthcare by combining evidence-based medicine with real-world fitness expertise. He is a prominent advocate for combating misinformation on social media, often using humor and memes to educate and challenge misconceptions in the medical and fitness communities.Together, they explore why doctors who lift weights and practice a fitness lifestyle could revolutionize healthcare for patients like you.Discover why traditional medical advice often misses the mark for fitness enthusiasts, the myths about weightlifting and health, and actionable ways to find doctors who align with your fitness journey.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:32 When doctors get fitness wrong and handling online criticism11:12 Why lifestyle changes aren’t emphasized and training transforms care20:09 Overcoming stigma: Doctors and lifting25:57 Barriers to meeting physical activity guidelines31:28 The truth about GLP-1 drugs and obesity38:20 Practical, accessible behavior changes42:50 The power of lifting to catalyze lifestyle shifts46:09 Rapid fire: Seed oils, influencers, and fad diets49:20 OutroEpisode resources:Website: drspencer.comInstagram: @drnadolskyThreads: @drnadolskyPodcast: Docs Who LiftSupport the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
Dec 11, 2024 • 17min
My Experiment with Peptides (BPC-157) for Shoulder Recovery (Confounding Variables) | Ep 255
Follow Nutrition Science Daily, our new 5-minute weekday morning podcast delivering the latest in nutrition, fat loss, and health science... plus simple tips to help you optimize your diet, build muscle, and improve your health—all before your high-protein breakfast!—If you've experimented with supplements or recovery protocols and struggled to determine what's actually working versus what's just wishful thinking...Learn how the engineering concept of Confounding Variables reveals why most self-experiments fail to give clear answers – and how to design better ones.Using my real experience with BPC-157 for shoulder recovery as a case study, discover why changing multiple factors at once creates a "messy dataset" that can mask or amplify results.Whether you're evaluating a supplement, modifying your training, or testing any health intervention, understanding this framework will transform how you approach self-experimentation.Main Takeaways:Why controlling variables matters for supplement evaluationHow diet changes can mask or amplify recovery resultsThe hidden benefit of "messy" real-world experimentsA systematic approach to learning from imperfect dataEpisodes Mentioned:Testosterone, Hormone Therapy, and Peptides for Health and Longevity with Dr. Rand McClainPeptides, Hormone Therapy, Medical Aesthetics, and Personalized Wellness with Kristin Gemme→ Follow Nutrition Science Daily, our new 5-minute weekday morning podcast!Support the show📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance.👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram
