Wits & Weights | Fat Loss, Nutrition, & Strength Training for Lifters

Philip Pape, Evidence-Based Nutrition Coach & Fat Loss Expert

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Jul 9, 2024 • 1h 6min

From 280 Pounds to Well-Muscled Boston Qualifier at Age 55 with Hybrid/Concurrent Training | Ep 188

Have you ever dreamed of running a marathon but felt it was impossible due to your weight or fitness level? Or that lots of cardio will kill your muscle and gains? Discover how Ben went from 280 pounds to qualifying for the Boston Marathon at 55 without losing muscle mass.In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) interviews Ben Lewis, who began his fitness journey at 52, weighing over 280 pounds. Now, at 55, Ben has transformed his life, shedding over 100 pounds and improving his cardiovascular health while building muscle. Ben's remarkable story includes qualifying for the Boston Marathon, showcasing the potential of combining weight loss with muscle gain.Philip and Ben dive deep into the strategies that enabled Ben's incredible transformation. They discuss the importance of balancing nutrition, training, and physique goals, all while doing what you love. Ben shares insights on sustainable fat loss, hybrid training approaches, and the significance of setting realistic goals. He also emphasizes the role of mindset and consistency in achieving long-term success.Tune in to learn from Ben's journey and discover practical tips for reclaiming your health and fitness. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable lessons on balancing various aspects of fitness while maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:35 What goes through Ben's mind during his workout4:49 Training for the Boston Marathon6:31 His fitness journey and weight fluctuations12:51 His fitness journey starting at age 5216:20 Lessons and motivations from his initial 2021 weight loss21:21 Tracking progress and managing the scale26:46 Maintaining a calorie deficit and recomposition30:51 Using the Physique Tracker (a WWPU tool)40:10 Hybrid training: balancing lifting and running53:05 Prioritizing performance vs. health57:31 What question Ben wished Philip had asked1:00:08 Advice for others on a similar journey1:03:48 How to connect with Ben1:04:40 OutroEpisode resources:Join our Facebook group to get the FREE physique trackerBen’s IG: @benelou_fitness 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
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Jul 5, 2024 • 1h 3min

This Over 50 Family Man Lost His Power Belly (36 Pounds) But NOT His Muscle or Strength! | Ep 187

Are you over 40, juggling a demanding career, family responsibilities, and struggling to stay fit? Meet Jerry Bonanno, a 50-something family man who shed 36 pounds of fat and 5 inches off his waist without losing his hard-earned muscle or strength.Philip (@witsandweights) talks with Jerry about being over 40 and struggling to balance a demanding job, family commitments, and staying fit. Maybe you've been hitting the gym for years but still have difficulty nailing your nutrition, or the daily grind has taken a toll on your physical health. You're eager to reclaim your health, lose fat, and feel strong again, but the challenges seem overwhelming. Jerry reveals how he transformed his physique and reclaimed his health despite a hectic lifestyle. Tune in to hear his inspiring journey and practical tips that YOU can use to do the same.Today, you’ll learn all about:1:16 Jerry's discipline and training routine6:52 Managing aches and pains during training10:34 Jerry's motivation and health goals and why he worked with Philip14:32 Dietary experiments and sustainability18:12 Prioritizing his physicality to maintain a fulfilling life experience26:06 Reduce friction: Work hard and smart to achieve goals effectively29:14 The importance of tracking calories and protein intake34:54 Why Jerry came back for a second time39:53 Focusing on the process over the outcome46:05 Shifting to the carnivore diet49:21 Understanding personal data and adjusting nutrition51:52 Intuitive eating with tracking for a balanced approach54:31 High-frequency, low-volume weight training program without cardio57:17 Maintaining health and physique goals58:56 The question Jerry wished Philip had asked1:01:25 How to connect with Jerry1:02:02 OutroEpisode resources:Jerry’s IG: @thebasementapeRelated Episode:Ep 115: How Tony Lost 15 Lbs, 8% Body Fat, and Built Lifelong Strength with Barbell TrainingSupport 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
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Jul 4, 2024 • 5min

Why Women SHOULD Load Their Spine for Stronger Bones | Quick Wits

Are certain exercises are too risky for women, especially as they age?Today, we're challenging a common misconception in the fitness world: the idea that women should avoid loading their spine.Is this well-intentioned advice actually holding women back from building stronger, healthier bones? And what's the real key to maintaining bone density as we age?Let's break down the science and bust some myths in today's Quick Wits.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a text message.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
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Jul 2, 2024 • 31min

My 3 New Dieting Methods for Smarter, Easier Fat Loss | Ep 186

Are you sick of counting calories but still want to shed fat? Is your metabolism stuck in slow motion? Do you want to lose fat but feel overwhelmed by complex diet plans?In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) throws out the traditional calorie counting approach and dives into nonlinear dieting for fat loss. He argues that the stress of daily calorie restriction backfires, slowing your metabolism and making it challenging to stick with your diet. Nonlinear dieting offers a more flexible approach, allowing you to vary your calorie intake throughout the week or month. This can keep things interesting, prevent metabolic slowdown, and make fat loss more sustainable. Philip also discusses the benefits of nonlinear dieting. He shares three specific strategies you can use and emphasizes that these are just starting points. The key is to find a nonlinear dieting approach that works for you. So ditch the calculator and get ready to experiment with a more enjoyable path to your fat loss goals.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:19 The problem with the traditional approach to flexible dieting6:12 The power of nonlinear dieting 15:54 The 3 new creative dieting methods27:02 The mindset shift with nonlinear dieting29:19 OutroEpisode resources:Watch this video to download and setup MacroFactorLearn about Wits & Weights Physique UniversitySupport 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
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Jul 1, 2024 • 6min

Stop Doing THIS and You'll Finally Get the Result (Fat Loss, Muscle, or Any Goal) | Quick Wits

Have you ever wondered why, despite all your efforts, you're not seeing the results you want in your fitness?Today, we're exposing a sneaky little habit that's sabotaging your progress, whether you are aiming for fat loss, muscle gain or any other health goal. What is this progress-killing behavior and, more importantly, how can you overcome it to finally achieve the results you're after? Tune in to today's Quick Wits to find out the game-changing answer.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a text message.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
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Jun 29, 2024 • 11min

Seed Oils Aren't Evil and the Haters Are Mad About It | Bonus Episode

Are seed oils really the evil villain they're made out to be? 😈Let's dissect this heated debate and clear the air. I'm responding to a scathing one-star review accusing me of being "anti-science" and in cahoots with Big Food (seriously, where are my checks! 🤑💵).Related episode about seed oils:→ Quick Wits: Seed Oils Aren't the ProblemI stand firm on my evidence-based approach, explaining why seed oils are not inherently harmful and highlighting the limitations of observational studies that can't establish causality. As for the science, feel free to refer to the multiple meta-analyses (like this and this) that show no link between seed oils / omega-6 and health issues (and some seem to support the opposite, that higher linoleic acid is associated with LOWER heart disease and mortality risk).We'll also shed light on how the real dietary culprits are often the excess calories, lack of nutrients, and high palatability in ultra-processed foods correlated with an unhealthy dietary pattern and overconsumption, rather than the seed oils themselves. My message?Focus on balanced nutrition and moderation within an 80/20 framework to truly prioritize your health. Shockingly "anti-science" isn't it? 😁🤯Tune in to hear me go after the haters in a not-too-scathing-but-just-right way and if you want to drown out the negative reviews...Click here to submit a 5-star review on Apple, one of the BEST ways to support the show! 🤩🙏 Last thing...Did you like this episode? Not so much? How about the new music? Shoot me a text with your opinions (or questions!) 👇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
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Jun 28, 2024 • 1h 8min

7 Mind Hacks to Lose Fat and Build Muscle Faster with Adam Poehlmann | Ep 185

Are you feeling stuck in a fitness rut? Are you confused by conflicting fitness advice? Struggling to stay motivated when everyone on social media seems to have a perfect body?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes Adam Poehlmann, host of The Poehlmann Fitness Show and a dedicated health, fitness, and nutrition coach at Poehlmann Fitness, to discuss how your inner voice can unlock physical achievements. This episode tackles the often-overlooked aspect of fitness: your mindset. Adam dives deep into the internal locus of control concept, empowering you to take ownership of your health journey. He also gets personal, sharing his fitness struggles and triumphs, from overcoming the temptation of alcohol to setting a positive example.Philip and Adam explore the power of a growth mindset, where setbacks become growth opportunities. They also talk about navigating social media effectively, avoiding comparison traps, and harnessing its potential for inspiration and learning. Packed with actionable tips and real-life experiences, this episode equips you with the mental tools to finally conquer your fitness goals. Today, you’ll learn all about:2:21 What's the first mental shift Adam recommends9:16 (1) Developing an inner locus of control15:31 (2) Mental contrasting visualization18:04 (3) Implementation intentions ("if-then" planning)20:48  Choosing fitness over alcohol23:25 (4) Community and accountability26:32 When Adam hit a wall in his fitness journey 33:30 (5) Self-awareness and reframing negative thoughts41:35 Mindset on nutrition and exercise progression 43:45 (6) Building resilience and self-compassion53:52 (7) Managing information "diet" and social media influences59:22 Navigating social media and fitness trends1:06:11 Where to find Adam1:06:55 OutroEpisode resources:IG: @adampoehlmann Podcast: spoti.fi/3W2kYBO Threads: @adampoehlmann FB Group: facebook.com/groups/thebodytransformationtribe Related episodes:Ep 177: How Anatomy Impacts Your Gut, Muscle Mass, Hormones, and Health with Justin CottleSupport 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
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Jun 27, 2024 • 5min

The "Afterburner" Effect (Burn 500 More Calories AFTER Your Workout?) | Quick Wits

Have you ever heard the concept that certain types of workouts might keep burning a ton more calories long after you've left the gym for many hours afterward?Today we're tackling the "afterburner effect," the idea that you can keep burning calories long after your workout is over. And in scientific terms, we are talking about EPOC (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption). Is this effect real? Can it significantly impact your fat loss and, if so, how can you maximize it in your training?We separate fact from fiction in today's Quick Wits. --“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a text message.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
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Jun 25, 2024 • 1h 3min

Q&A - Rapid Fat Loss, Body Recomp, Building Muscle Over 40, Tracking Veggies w/Jeff Hoehn | Ep 184

Is rapid weight loss worth the risk? Can you really build muscle while losing fat? How important is nutrition tracking for your fitness journey?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) welcomes back Jeff Hoehn for another co-hosted Q&A episode. This time, they discuss aggressive fat loss strategies, the benefits of higher protein intake, and overcoming menopause-related hurdles. They dive into the controversial topic of rapid weight loss, the importance of structured diet breaks, and the real deal about slow metabolism. Philip and Jeff also compare powerlifting and bodybuilding during fat loss phases, emphasizing the role of heavy compound lifts and hypertrophy training. They also talk about nutrition tracking, low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, and fiber intake.Today, you’ll learn all about:3:24 What are your views on rapid fat loss and the frequency of aggressive cuts? Also, how do you feel about protein-sparing modified fasting in a 5:2 diet for general weight loss?12:10 Does consuming more protein than recommended have any benefits?19:35 How can I effectively lose fat and reveal muscle definition despite increasing my calorie intake, exercising regularly, and maintaining a high-protein diet?32:38 How feasible is it to build muscle in a deficit?44:15 Heavier weight or more reps for an older guy looking to build a base for longevity?54:09 In fat loss, does counting veggies affect the macros? Should I log them?59:10 OutroEpisode resources:The Mind Muscle Connection podcastJeff’s IG: @jeffhoehn_Related episodes:Ep 169: Q&A w/Jeff Hoehn – Menopause Weight Loss, Bulking Without Getting Fat, & Cutting on Low SleepEp 178: Sleep Science - Doing THIS in the Bedroom is Killing Your Fat Loss, Gains, Hormones, & MetabolismEp 180: The New Over 50 Roadmap to Lifelong Strength, Health, Muscle, and LongevitySupport 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
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Jun 24, 2024 • 7min

A Gallon of Milk a Day (The Reality of Mark Rippetoe's GOMAD) | Quick Wits

GOMAD, or "Gallon of Milk a Day," was a protocol popularized by strength coach Mark Rippetoe (of Starting Strength), to ensure rapid weight gain and muscle growth. The idea is to bulk up quickly. You just chug a gallon of milk a day. Easy right?But before you start doing that, I want you to tune in to today's Quick Wits for my take on this sometimes controversial protocol and why it might not be the best approach for everyone, especially if you're not a skinny 20-something-year-old male. GOMAD was originally intended for a very specific demographic - skinny, underweight guys in their late teens and early 20s who struggle to put on any weight at all. For these folks, the massive calorie boost from a gallon of milk a day can kickstart muscle gain and help them get out of the "hardgainer" zone.But if you're not in that category, then GOMAD might not be the best fit. If you're older, or if you're not significantly underweight, drinking that much milk every day is more likely to lead to excessive fat gain than lean muscle growth. Not to mention, it can be pretty tough on your digestive system, especially if you're not used to processing that much lactose.But I'm not against using milk as a calorie-dense, macro-balanced tool as part of your nutrition plan. Tune in to hear my thoughts on this.--“Quick Wits” are short mini-episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a text message.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

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