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

When you're forced to take a break from training due to injury or illness, how long does it take before muscle loss begins to occur? And how do I get more muscle to increase my metabolism?We are answering two questions today:When forced to take a break from training due to injury or illness, how long does it take before muscle loss begins to occur?How do I get more muscle to increase my daily expenditure?Get the answers in today's Weekend Q&A bonus episode.Tune in to learn why muscle deterioration isn't as swift as you think, and how a high-protein diet and even minimal resistance training can stall any unwelcome muscle shrinkage.We'll also discuss adjusting your nutrition to align with your activity level, ensuring you're fueling your body to best support muscle maintenance. ---This is a special Weekend Q&A edition of the Wits & Weights podcast, where we supercharge your Saturdays with an answer to one burning question so YOU can put it into action this weekend.These questions are taken from the weekly #AskPhilip thread in our free Wits & Weights Facebook community. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the endless amount of information and, let’s be honest, MISinformation online and just want a straight up answer without the jargon, that’s what this free service is for.With the weekly #AskPhilip thread, you can post a specific question relevant to your unique, individual situation that week and have it answered live by me on Friday. If you’d like to experience it yourself, I invite you to use the link in the show notes to join the Wits & Weights Facebook group. It’s totally free and you’ll quickly find out what a positive and supportive community it is.Join our FREE community here to get access to the #AskPhilip thread!Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

Can a carb-rich, high-calorie diet boost our metabolism? What are the real effects of fasting on our energy levels? How can lifestyle choices impact our mood and overall health?In today’s episode, Philip (@witsandweights) is joined by Jay Feldman. Jay is a health coach and host of The Energy Balance Podcast, which focuses on bioenergetic health.Jay discusses the impact of maximizing cellular energy on mental health, metabolism, longevity, and more. He will address modern diet culture, stress, and lifestyle in the context of your health and offer practical solutions for adopting a sustainable, energy-boosting diet without relying on restriction or willpower. They even get into thyroid function and how to manage thyroid issues.Jay is a health coach and independent health researcher with a rich neuroscience and exercise physiology background. Instead of traditional medical school, Jay chose a different path to explore health. He believes that our health’s true foundation lies in maximizing cellular energy.As the host of The Energy Balance Podcast, Jay champions this bioenergetic view, focusing on maximizing cellular energy as the cornerstone of vitality. His mission is to empower men and women worldwide to achieve freedom from low-energy symptoms and chronic health issues to maximize their cellular energy and optimize their health using a personalized bioenergetic approach.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:17 Explaining the bioenergetic diet and its differences from traditional diets6:31 Pillars of the bioenergetic approach9:01 Energy expenditure and metabolic rate10:33 Low-carb diet for diabetics, and during fat loss14:39 Digestive health and energy production18:29 The role of bioenergetics in body composition22:46 Understanding endotoxins29:15 Linking bioenergetics to mental health and cognitive improvement39:22 Differentiating between hormesis and chronic stress effects on health43:11 Mitigating negative impacts of modern lifestyle and diet culture49:44 The significance of lifestyle/diet on thyroid function and management insights55:15 One question Jay wished Philip had asked 57:31 Where you can learn more about Jay and his work58:30 OutroEpisode resources:The Energy Balance Podcast The Energy Balance Food Guide (1-page infographic) - jayfeldmanwellness.com/guide Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

Have you ever felt like you are doing all the things right on your fitness journey for your health, your nutrition, your training...but something's missing? And that something is support or other people or someone to share it with? A lot of us are in that 5% percent of people that are really going after the best versions of ourselves, and we feel like the majority people around us aren't doing the same. Today's Quick Wits is all about elevating your game and your success by doing it as part of a community, and in this episode Philip shares two ways that you can do that. Two amazing communities you can join for like-minded support, accountability, and pushing yourself to become the best version of yourself:Wits & Weights Facebook community (free)Wits & Weights Physique University (join the pre-sale early notification list)--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

How 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. Philip bases his notes on the FREE Metabolism audit that you can take on the Wits and Weights website for a personalized assessment: https://www.witsandweights.com/free-metabolism-assessment Today, you’ll learn all about:3:25 Five-star reviews6:32 Misconceptions about the "eat less, move more" advice8:22 The importance of muscle mass for metabolism9:53 Supporting muscle growth with protein11:04 The principles of strength training and overload14:07 Fueling your body and staying active21:16 Avoiding sedentary behavior22:30 Why the "eat less, move more" approach is destructive25:17 Hydration, sleep, and stress management30:05 Chronic stress and its effect on metabolism32:56 Whole/unprocessed foods, dairy, grains, and alcohol42:17 Personalized metabolism audit for optimal health43:49 OutroEpisode resources:Take the FREE Metabolism audit to learn about your metabolic flexibilitySupport the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

What if there's a mental shift that you can make right now that would make it even easier to break through plateaus and reach and smash your fitness goals?In today's Quick Wits as we explore this little shift in your approach that will give you massive results. --“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

This conversation is from my appearance on Jen Rulon's podcast, The Everyday Healthy Human.Jen invited me on her podcast to discuss the importance of evidence-based fitness and nutrition, debunk the need for excessive cardio to lose weight, and emphasize the benefits of lifting heavy. You’ll learn about the significance of building habits and non-negotiables in achieving long-term success, and I shared my personal journey and offered advice for those going through a change.Throughout our conversation, we highlighted the importance of focusing on strength, adopting a flexible approach to nutrition, and finding joy in the process of transformation. You'll learn why an evidence-based approach is crucial for navigating the often-confusing world of fitness and nutrition.Enjoy my conversation with Jen Rulon on The Everyday Healthy Human podcast!Episode ResourcesThe Everyday Healthy Human podcast with Jen Rulon Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

What does it mean to "train hard"? Is it training to failure, progressive overload, intensity, something else? Find out the answers in today's episode.Today, Steve Hall, the founder of Revive Stronger, a seasoned natural bodybuilder and podcast host, shares his expertise on essential training principles. Philip (@witsandweights) invited him to the show to share his insights on what it means to "train hard" and how to apply scientific research to your training effectively. They discussed reps in reserve (RIR), proximity to failure, minimum effective volume for muscle growth, and more.Steve's journey in the fitness world began after a near-death experience at the age of 20 where he suffered a severe head injury. During his recovery, he discovered bodybuilding, which helped him regain control of his life and ignited his passion for self-improvement.With over a decade of gym experience and years of coaching experience, Steve has definitely made a name for himself in the world of natural bodybuilding, placing second at the WNBF World finals in 2021. Steve's approach to training and nutrition is grounded in the latest scientific research, which he combines with extensive practical knowledge to help his clients achieve outstanding results.Today, you’ll learn all about:3:19 The link between bodybuilding and personal values8:16 "Training hard" for hypertrophy13:56 RIR and proximity to failure vs. other hypertrophy principles19:20 Assessing repetition ranges28:42 Applying research findings to individual training39:43 Assessing and optimizing individual response to training44:52 Full Range of Motion (ROM) vs. partial reps52:22 Developing personal heuristics for effective training59:39 The question Steve wished Philip had asked1:01:35 Where to find Steve1:02:20 OutroEpisode resources:Steve’s coaching and podcast website: revivestronger.comIG: @revivestrongerThe Improvement Season PodcastSupport the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

When it comes to long-term health, vitality, body composition and avoiding metabolic disease and obesity, there is one thing that matters above all and is a complete game changer...It's NOT weight loss.Forget what you've been told about weight loss being the holy grail of health. This episode is set to revolutionize your perspective on fitness and vitality. There is an unsung hero of our metabolic system that is the key to longevity and disease resilience. For anyone who's been fixated on the bathroom scale, prepare to shift your focus to the real powerhouse of health.Find out what it is on today's Quick Wits.--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

Why does hunger strike when you're cutting calories? Do you want to know the best way to curb hunger during fat loss?In this episode, Philip  (@witsandweights) dives into the fascinating world of hunger, the science behind it, and how it affects your fat loss journey. He talks about the hunger hormones — leptin and ghrelin and how stress and cortisol can make you crave that extra snack. He shares nine practical strategies to help you stay on track and how protein, spices, and water play an important role in these real-life hacks.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:51 Hunger during a calorie deficit4:45 The science of hunger7:46 Cortisol's role in hunger and appetite10:55 Managing hunger with quality of sleep12:34 Influence of the senses on hunger19:22 Nine hunger hacks35:40 OutroEpisode resources:Download Your FREE Hunger Hacks GuideSupport the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)

Don't eat this, don't eat that. Are you sick and tired of all the don'ts when it comes to diet? All the no's and the can't's and the bad's?We're getting rid of all of that. We're going to flip things around and explore additive nutrition. This is a liberating, freeing approach to focusing on what to ADD IN your diet rather than what to cut out...on today's Quick Wits.Wave goodbye to the tyranny of dietary restriction and say hello to a life of nutritional abundance. This episode is your ticket to embracing additive nutrition, a joyous pivot from what you 'can't have' to what you 'can add' to enhance your health and vitality. You will learn about a perspective on eating that celebrates the diversity of foods that can enrich your meals and your life. Today, we're all about enriching your plate with the essentials our bodies crave, from proteins that repair and build muscle, to fibers that bolster our digestive health. It's not just about the food; it's about cultivating a positive relationship with eating, acknowledging it as a nurturing act rather than a source of guilt. Let's revolutionize the way we think about meals, focusing on the satiating power of nutritious choices to naturally replace those less beneficial eats. Join me, and let's transform not just our diets, but our approach to food as the nourishing fuel propelling us toward our goals.--“Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strategy or hit of motivation.These mini-episodes give you practical advice on fitness, training, and mindset based on my everyday experience with clients that you can implement right away.If you enjoy these bonus episodes or have feedback on how to make them better, just send me a message on IG @witsandweights or hit me up in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community.Support the show🎓 Join Physique University for just $27/mo + get a FREE custom nutrition plan with this special link: bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan 👥 Join our Facebook community for Q&As & support👋 Ask a question or find me on Instagram📱 Try MacroFactor 2 weeks free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS (my favorite nutrition app)