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
Jul 31, 2024 • 14min
Avoid Joint Pain and Tendonitis to Lift Weights Forever (Fatigue Failure) | Ep 198
Are you pushing yourself to the limit in the gym, chasing PRs, but worried about the toll it's taking on your joints and tendons (knees, elbows, shoulders)?What if there was a way to keep making progress without risking nagging injuries?Discover how the engineering principle of Fatigue Failure can help you avoid injuries like tendonitis, bursitis, and tendon tears to keep you lifting for years to come.We'll break down:Why your tendons behave like materials in engineeringThe four stages of fatigue failure and how they apply to your trainingPractical strategies to prevent overloading and allow for proper recoveryHow to monitor for early signs of tendon fatigue before it's too lateThe mindset shift from "pushing through pain" to "designing for longevity"Learn how to find the sweet spot between progress and injury prevention, ensuring you can continue to lift weights and make gains well into the future.You'll learn strategies to protect your joints and tendons while still making consistent progress in the gym.Book a FREE 15-minute Rapid Nutrition Assessment, designed to fine-tune your strategy, identify your #1 roadblock, and give you a personalized 3-step action plan in a fast-paced 15 minutes.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
Jul 29, 2024 • 28min
Your Very First Cut (Lose 10-30 Pounds of Fat) | Ep 197
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. Get your FREE guide, Nutrition 101 for Body Composition, 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.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:2:40 Mistakes to avoid during your first cut8:37 Principles for successful and sustainable fat loss18:00 Step-by-step guide to implementing a successful cut26:00 Fast-Track Fat Loss Cohort26:42 OutroEpisodes 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
Jul 26, 2024 • 1h
Overcome Food Addiction and Stop Overeating for Good with Dr. Judson Brewer | Ep 196
Are those late-night cravings for ice cream sabotaging your fitness goals? Do you struggle to tell the difference between real hunger and emotional eating? Have you ever wondered if there's a way to manage cravings without relying on willpower alone? In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) sits down with Dr. Judson Brewer, a renowned neuroscientist from Brown University, to unlock the secrets of conquering food cravings and building healthier eating habits. Philip and Dr. Jud dive into real-life examples and actionable steps to help you transform your relationship with food. From distinguishing between true hunger and emotional cravings to embracing mindfulness and self-compassion, this episode is packed with valuable tools to support your fitness journey. Dr. Judson Brewer is the director of Research and Innovation at the Mindfulness Center and a professor at Brown University. He is a leading expert in mindfulness training for addictions and has developed innovative treatments for smoking, emotional eating, and anxiety. During their conversation, Dr. Jud shares insights from his groundbreaking research on the neuroscience of cravings and practical strategies to break free from unhealthy eating patterns. Tune in and learn how to change your brain's response to food, manage food cravings, and align your eating habits with your fitness goals.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:12 Dr. Jud's experience with cravings and ineffective willpower4:26 The difference between emotional and physical hunger8:01 The role of the food industry in shaping eating habits12:49 How to rewire your brain and manage cravings18:20 His stance on tracking your nutrition19:26 The impact of societal pressures on eating habits21:29 Techniques for recognizing and addressing true hunger33:14 Adjusting your top-down model for better food choices42:54 Questions from the community48:48 Finding satisfying and healthy food alternatives54:28 Reprogramming your reaction to hunger 56:40 The question Dr. Jud wished Philip had asked58:54 Where to find more resources from Dr. Jud59:25 OutroEpisode resources:Dr. Jud’s Website: drjud.comSupport 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
Jul 24, 2024 • 18min
Bigger Isn't Always Better for Strength or Metabolism (Scaling Laws) | Ep 195
How can a small guy deadlift more than the big guy, or why does your smaller friend never seem to gain weight no matter how much they eat? And what does this mean for your lifting and calorie targets?Discover the science behind these phenomena as we delve into the fascinating world of scaling laws and their impact on fitness and body mechanics. We break down the principles governing strength, power output, metabolism, and nutrition to help you your training and nutrition.We'll explore why smaller individuals often exhibit higher relative strength and why lighter weight classes in powerlifting shine. Or why smaller individuals can do more pull-ups.You'll learn about Kleber’s Law and how basal metabolic rate (BMR) scales differently with body size, revealing why smaller individuals have relatively higher metabolic rates.And what it all means for YOU both physically and psychologically as you set goals for strength, performance, weight loss, and anything else in your health and fitness.Book a FREE 15-minute Rapid Nutrition Assessment, designed to fine-tune your strategy, identify your #1 roadblock, and give you a personalized 3-step action plan in a fast-paced 15 minutes.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
Jul 22, 2024 • 21min
Why Macros Might Be All You Need to Streamline Your Nutrition | Ep 194
Nutrition can be overwhelming: from calories and macros to saturated fats, fiber, micronutrients, and meal timing. But what if you ONLY tracked macros? Is that enough for a diet that supports your health and physique?In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) breaks down why tracking macros might be all you need to rebalance your diet and set the stage for long-term success. If you're ready to streamline your nutrition without the headache of overcomplicating things, this episode is for you.Philip dives into the basics of macro tracking, explaining how this flexible dieting approach can cut through the noise and provide a clear path to better nutrition. By focusing on just three targets, you can reduce mental fatigue, promote consistency, and prioritize what's most important for muscle building and fat loss. Philip also shares an advanced tip for seasoned trackers who are feeling stuck. He recounts a client's story to illustrate how even those with experience can benefit from revisiting the basics. Whether you're new to nutrition tracking or an experienced dieter, you'll find practical tips and insights to help you simplify your diet and make meaningful progress.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:33 Nutrition can be complicated3:17 What tracking macros means7:15 Steps to implement effective macro tracking14:47 The significance of tracking macros in sustainable nutrition18:23 Tip for the advanced trackers20:09 OutroEpisode resources:Try MacroFactor free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS – Apple/iPhone or Google/AndroidRelated episodes: Macros Aren’t Enough – Flexible Dieting vs. IIFYM | Ep 110How to Get More Fitness Results for Less Effort (The Pareto Rule) | Ep 189Support 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
Jul 19, 2024 • 51min
The Extreme Cost of a Lean, Ripped Body and Visible Abs with Brittany & James Gatewood | Ep 193
What does it ACTUALLY take to achieve a lean, ripped, shredded physique?Join Philip (@witsandweights) as he welcomes Brittany and James Gatewood, the powerhouse couple behind the "Macros, Mindset, and Muscles" podcast, for an in-depth conversation about the physical and mental demands of achieving extreme leanness.In this episode, Philip and his guests explore the rigorous journey of bodybuilding and fitness competitions. From the meticulous planning and unwavering discipline to the significant lifestyle adjustments, they lay out the real costs of getting stage-ready. Brittany and James share their personal experiences, including the sacrifices, challenges, and ultimate rewards of pushing their bodies and minds to the limit. Together, they discuss the importance of having a solid lifting foundation and the impact of extreme fitness routines. Brittany started her fitness journey to become healthier for her children, and James began as a "hard gainer" looking to build muscle. Now, they use their expertise to coach and inspire others through Phoenix Transformations. Tune in to discover if you're ready to take on the challenge and achieve extraordinary goals. Today, you’ll learn all about:2:29 Cost of achieving and maintaining a lean physique5:06 Setting realistic expectations for fitness goals7:02 Breakdown of the physical and mental demands of bodybuilding prep11:47 Prep duration and the role of refeeds and diet breaks in a prep phase15:02 The impact of metabolic adaptation and the importance of monitoring progress21:06 Lifestyle adjustments, extreme adherence, and tips for staying on track25:12 Sustainable practices for long-term leanness27:36 Tracking progress and making adjustments30:47 Symptoms and health risks associated with extreme leanness36:26 Prerequisites for considering a bodybuilding competition42:34 Long-term health risks of staying very lean43:55 Real-life client success story and the benefits of a structured plan45:35 Additional costs and considerations for competing in bodybuilding48:57 How to connect with Britanny and James49:36 OutroEpisode resources:Get your free meal prep guide (scroll to the bottom of the page) at transformwithphoenix.com.Podcast: Macros, Mindset, and MusclesSupport 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
Jul 17, 2024 • 19min
Spend 70% of Your Time Doing THIS for a Faster Physique Transformation (Rapid Prototyping) | Ep 192
What if you could get FASTER results with your physique development by spending most of your time on something very few people put much energy into?What if spending less time goal-setting, researching, planning, and designing your training and nutrition routine could actually lead to BETTER results?Are you a perfectionist getting stuck in analysis paralysis or stubbornly being "consistent" but with a plan that's not working?Discover how focusing 70% of your time on THIS can lead to faster and more sustainable progress. We'll explain why traditional approaches often fall short and what to do instead, inspired by engineers who design complex systems.And you can do it without feeling overwhelmed, ensuring you reach your goals with greater ease and sustainability.Book a FREE 15-minute Rapid Nutrition Assessment, designed to fine-tune your strategy, identify your #1 roadblock, and give you a personalized 3-step action plan in a fast-paced 15 minutes.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
Jul 15, 2024 • 32min
My Stair-Step Fat Loss Process to Get Lean and Ripped | Ep 191
Are you tired of endless yo-yo dieting or struggling to get through a fat-loss phase? What if there was a smarter way to get lean that works with your body and not against it?In today’s episode, Philip (@witsandweights) shares his personal stair-step fat loss process, designed to help you achieve your goals while dealing with life’s challenges, like recovering from an injury or sluggish metabolism. This approach not only supports better recovery and flexibility but also makes the fat loss journey more enjoyable. Philip breaks down the science and psychology behind it, explaining how it helps maintain metabolism and sustain long-term results without constant dieting struggles. He emphasizes that true transformation comes from thoughtful, well-engineered approaches that consider your body’s needs and limitations. By embracing this stair-step method, you can build lasting habits, improve your relationship with food, and achieve sustainable fat loss while living your life to the fullest.Get ready to rethink your approach to fat loss and discover a sustainable path to your dream physique, one step at a time.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:28 Personal story and surgery recovery10:44 Detailed explanation of the stair-step method16:26 Sustainability and flexibility of the method19:22 Implementing the stair-step method24:28 Benefits and psychological impact of maintenance phases27:39 Building better habits for lasting transformation 29:20 OutroEpisode resources:Book your free call with Philip so he can create your personal fat loss roadmapRelated episode: My 3 New Dieting Methods for Smarter, Easier Fat Loss | Ep 186Support 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
Jul 12, 2024 • 46min
Surprising Advice Women Over 50 NEED for Strength, Health, & Longevity with Pam Sherman | Ep 190
Are you a woman over 50 looking to hit your fitness goals, get strong, and have fun along the way? Have you ever wondered how you can integrate fitness into your busy life without feeling overwhelmed?In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes Pam Sherman, a fitness expert with 27 years of experience. Pam is passionate about women’s health and wellness, and today, she shares her insights on setting specific goals and the undeniable benefits of strength training. She also discusses practical strategies to fit fitness into a busy lifestyle for long-term success and the importance of building a supportive community. Plus, she shares an incredible story of how she recovered from a severe car accident and how it made her realize the importance of strength training.Pam’s journey in the fitness world started with running with her dad and discovering the joy of movement. Her philosophy, “Your health is your greatest wealth,” has guided her mission to empower women to prioritize their well-being. Pam emphasizes that it’s never too late to start, and with the right mindset and approach, you can build a healthier, stronger you.Join Philip and Pam as they explore how you can achieve your long-term fitness goals and feel confident in your body, regardless of age. Today, you’ll learn all about:2:01 Underrated advice for women over 50 3:56 Overcoming a serious car accident8:17 Integrating fitness into a busy lifestyle and handling physical limitations11:22 Why you should prioritize your health15:25 Importance of having a specific goal21:40 Benefits of strength training for longevity25:21 Strategies for achieving fitness goals28:44 Focusing on feelings vs. appearance31:51 Overcoming obstacles to fitness37:49 Role of community in fitness goals40:09 Men coaching women, women coaching men41:58 The question Pam wished Philip had asked44:09 Where to find Pam44:47 OutroEpisode resources:Pam's Instagram: pam_sherman1TikTok: @pam_sherman1 YouTube Channel: Pam ShermanSupport 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
Jul 10, 2024 • 17min
How to Get More Fitness Results for Less Effort (The Pareto Rule) | Ep 189
What if doing LESS is the answer to more results overall...your fitness, training, nutrition, and anything else going on in your life?Imagine achieving 80% of your fitness goals with just 20% of your efforts. Today is the first Wednesday episode where we apply engineering frameworks to evidence-based fitness. After all, engineers have made it their craft to optimize results with as few resources as possible through simple, elegant, and effective solutions.One such framework is the Pareto principle, also known as the 80-20 rule (not to be confused with the 80% whole foods "rule" for nutrition). This rule is a way to rebalance all the important but time-consuming things in your life so you can free up time, reduce stress, and STILL get the results you want.This episode will guide you through identifying the most impactful actions you can take in areas like strength training, nutrition, sleep, and stress management, so you can break through plateaus and optimize your time effectively.Join us as we kick off a new series that merges engineering principles with fitness strategies. We'll dissect how to evaluate your current efforts across various health areas, revealing where you might be overcommitted and how to reallocate those efforts for maximum results.You can now book a FREE 15-minute Rapid Nutrition Assessment, designed to fine-tune your strategy, identify your #1 roadblock, and give you a personalized 3-step action plan in a fast-paced 15 minutes.Click to book a Rapid Nutrition Assessment while there are slots open this week.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
