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

This conversation is from my appearance on Brian Gryn’s podcast, Get Lean, Eat Clean, where we discussed so many topics related to over-40 fitness and sustainable results.Learn the step-by-step formula that helped me reveal my best body and energy after 40. Learn how flexible dieting, evidence-based training, and proper carb intake fuels workout performance. Discover why most people struggle to build muscle and end up spinning their wheels. Plus find out my #1 tip to transform your health, physique, and mindset for good.By the way, Brian will be on the show next month so make sure to subscribe to Wits & Weights to get notified when the episode comes out.Enjoy my conversation with Brian Gryn!Episode summary:Unlock the secrets to a sustainable fitness and nutrition plan post-40. We're talking about tangible steps, like the art of food and exercise tracking, while indulging in the flavors you love. Muscle mass takes center stage in this health crusade, proving it's a formidable opponent against obesity. And if you're looking for a sign to start lifting, this is it—backed by scientific savvy and spiced with real-world success stories.The gym journal debate is settled here, and I'm dishing out the details of my muscle sculpting regimen crafted by coach Andy Baker. Feel the burn but also learn the quintessential role recovery plays—because muscle isn't just built on sweat alone. Sleep, nutrition, and the clever use of technology or good old pen and paper become your allies in the quest for gains. And for those who ever doubted the might of machines in your workout or demonized carbs as the villain of your diet story, prepare for some myth-busting that could just reshape your fitness journey.Finally, weave exercise into the tapestry of your daily life, no matter the time crunch. Be inspired by tales of incremental triumphs, like the woman whose life was changed by mastering the art of standing up from a couch. It's about celebrating the small victories that snowball into a lifestyle transformation. Hop aboard the fitness 'bug'—it's an infectious ride that elevates your health and spirit, step by step, rep by rep. Join us for an episode that's more than a listen—it's the first stride towards your best self.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 wondered how to maximize muscle growth while saving time? Tune in as Bryan Boorstein reveals intensity techniques that’ll transform your workouts!Today, Philip (@witsandweights) is joined by Bryan Boorstein, the mastermind and training genius. His extensive knowledge of training methods takes center stage as he delves into captivating topics. From lengthened partials to maximizing metabolic stress and from intensity techniques for efficient workouts to ideas for leg movements in a limited home gym, Bryan shares insights that will elevate your fitness game.As a true “Renaissance Man” of health and fitness, Bryan’s training approach seamlessly integrates elements from bodybuilding, powerlifting, and athleticism. His content and coaching exude knowledge, nuance, and infectious passion, all aimed at helping YOU optimize your physique and performance.With 25+ years of training experience, Byran collaborates with top athletes. As founder of Evolved Training Systems and Paragon Training Methods, he offers goal-oriented online programs for strength, physique, and skill development. Bryan co-hosts the Eat Train Prosper podcast, sharing practical strategies on nutrition, training, mindset, and lifestyle. His philosophy blends science, experience, and intuition for effective workouts.Today, you’ll learn all about:3:20 Lengthened partials - Bryan’s take9:06 Failure training vs. effective reps - resolving the debate15:59 Failure vs. submaximal training24:21 Metabolic stress techniques - favorites and periodization30:33 Strength vs. hypertrophy training35:43 Building legs without machines49:32 Optimizing cardio for muscle growth58:09 Basic specialization approach1:02:20 The question Byran wished Philip had asked1:04:19 OutroEpisode resources:Instagram: @bryanboorstein – Tons of programsSupport 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)

The hamstrings are the often overlooked powerhouse behind your lower body. Last week we talked quads. Today we're going to talk about the hammies.Philip (@witsandweights) reveals his 4 go-to exercises for building strength and size in your hamstrings in this special Lifting for Muscle Series of 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)

How do you overcome the demons of yo-yo dieting and negative body image? How can strength training be a gateway to a better physique and mindset?Today, Philip (@witsandweights) sits down with Isis Alvarado, a long-time member of the Wits & Weights community and a fitness and health enthusiast with a 15-year journey marked by personal struggles and triumphs, which is exactly what they talk about today. Isis isn’t just a fitness enthusiast;  she’s a warrior who has battled and triumphed over yo-yo dieting and negative body image. As an adult, she broke free from the chains of restrictive eating, discovering the world of strength training and evidence-based nutrition. This wasn’t just a physical transformation but a mental and emotional one. Her story is about resilience, solid information, and transformative impact.  In their conversation today, you’re not just going to hear another transformation story. You’re going to learn the real, tangible strategies that Isis used to overhaul her relationship with food and her body. You’ll discover how strength training can be a gateway to a better physique and mindset. Most importantly, you’ll learn how to apply these lessons in your own life, breaking free from the myths and misconceptions that hold you back in your fitness journey.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:57 Childhood environment and its impact on health and body image5:42 Experiences with yo-yo dieting and beliefs about genetics7:52 Early adulthood decision to stop dieting and relationship with food15:32 Catalyst for shifting to strength training and changing fitness approaches19:03 How the right information led to significant results in less time         28:44 Influence of strength training on physical, mental, and emotional well-being34:46 Shifting food relationship from restriction to flexibility40:24 Strategies for finding reliable, evidence-based fitness information50:57 Impact of fitness journey on personal relationships, career, and goals53:54 Practical advice for listeners starting their health journey57:56 Future goals in fitness, health, and helping others1:00:47 What question did Isis wish Philip had asked1:04:19 How to connect with Isis1:05:36 OutroEpisode resources:Join the Wits & Weights Facebook group (where you can also connect with Isis Alvarado!)Ep 141: Why I’m Getting Fluffy Before I Get JackedSupport 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)

Ever wonder why some people seem to get incredible results from their coaches, while others stagnate? How do you get the most out of working with a coach? There's one thing in particular that if you don't do this, it's going to stunt the relationship and the progress you're going to make. But if you can do this upfront, early and often throughout the process, you will get even better results.The secret lies in the art of communication—something I've learned the hard way through my own coaching journey. Learn the critical importance of clear, ongoing dialogue to supercharge your progress.I'll share how a simple conversation can revitalize your coaching relationship. It's all about the give-and-take: providing feedback, setting expectations, and being open to change. Whether you're lifting weights or strategizing your next career move, learning how to actively engage with your coach can make all the difference. Join us as we unpack these insights and more, equipping you with the tools to transform your coaching sessions into a catalyst for unparalleled growth.---“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)

Can you thrive on a vegan diet (zero animal-based foods)?The question we're answering is:"What nutrients are essential for life and can only be found in animal products?I guess it would be more about vegan and vegetarian diets and the assumptions that you can’t get certain nutrients from plants. Maybe more context would be what essential nutrients are often regarded as only coming from animal sources, and are there plant sources of those nutrients? Could a person eat a vegan diet without supplements and get all of their essential nutrients from foods?"Find out in today's Weekend Q&A bonus episode.Download the MacroFactor app to stay on track with your diet and achieve your fitness goals. Extend your free trial using the code WITSANDWEIGHTS.---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)

Do you know the fitness principles that can be adapted to the over-40 age group? Discover practical tips to maintain a strong and healthy lifestyle beyond 40!In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) speaks with Brad Williams, host of the Over 40 Fitness Hacks podcast. Philip asked him to come on here to talk about the unique challenges and approaches for the over-40 demographic, when he was honored to be on his show recently. They discuss Brad’s motivations behind focusing on this age group, how fitness principles can be adapted to their age, and common age-related fitness myths. Brad shares his insights on effective training styles, managing stress and inflammation, and optimizing nutrition. Tune in and learn practical strategies for maintaining a strong and healthy lifestyle beyond 40.Over the last decade, Brad has owned and operated three gym locations in Orange County, and oversaw more than 40 independent personal trainers, each with their unique training styles. He built a loyal following and sought-after client/trainer community culture within his gym locations.Post-pandemic, Brad had to focus more on online training and started his fitness podcast called Over 40 Fitness Hacks. The show revolves around Brad’s passion for helping the over-40 crowd fight the aging process while still having a social life.Today, you’ll learn all about:2:17 Why focus on over-40 fitness5:30 Personal fitness and health changes now that you're over 4010:36 Training principles and adjustments for over 4015:05 Common misconceptions or objections to training over 4020:25 General training and programming principles26:54 How to manage inflammation and stress33:42 Mental health and fitness41:08 Counting micros (not just calories/macros)46:16 Muscle gain and strength expectations for 60s/70s49:28 The question Brad wished Philip had asked52:17 Where to find Brad52:48 OutroEpisode resources:Podcast "Over 40 Fitness Hacks" and website www.Over40FitnessHacks.comJoin our free insiders list to receive an EXCLUSIVE bonus interview with Brad on how he uses intermittent fasting, 36-hour fasts, EAAs, and more for his personal nutrition approach (and why)!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)

Are you looking to build strong, muscular quads? Get ready to squat, press and extend your way to impressive legs.Philip (@witsandweights) shares his favorite 4 exercises for developing powerhouse thighs in this special Lifting for Muscle Series of 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)

Are you struggling to hit your macro targets on an almost daily basis? Is your protein too low or fats and carbs too high during a fat loss phase, making it difficult to hit your target calories without somehow being off-balance or going over? Today, Philip  (@witsandweights) reveals five easy-to-follow techniques to help you consistently hit your daily macros! By following these strategies, you can ensure that you meet your macro goals and optimize your nutrition to support your fitness and health goals.  Today, you’ll learn all about:0:00 Intro3:46 A client shares what strategy worked for them6:28 Balance the bars10:30 Copy your best days13:44 Fill in gaps with protein powder15:54 Smart swaps18:15 Use AI-generated meal plans23:16 OutroEpisode Resources:Download my free Ultimate Macros Guide and High-Protein Recipe PackMacroFactor app – use code WITSANDWEIGHTS to extend your free trial to two weeksSupport 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)

Imagine if your bank statement only reported some transactions and not others. And then you get this huge shock at the end of the month when you see your actual balance. Well, you might be doing the exact same thing with your diet, and then the big shock is oh no, I gained 10 pounds. How did that happen?Just as a partial bank statement leaves you in the dark about your finances, incomplete food tracking can sabotage your health goals. Are those untracked meals keeping you stuck (and in the dark) with your body composition goals?Find out on today's Quick Wits!Mentioned in the episode:MacroFactor app – use code WITSANDWEIGHTS to extend your free trial to two weeks---“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)