The FIT40 Podcast

In this episode of the FIT40 Podcast, I break down everything you need to know about creatine—especially if you’re over 40 and looking to build strength, improve performance, and support long-term health. We’ll cover the benefits, the science behind how it works, who should or shouldn't take it, the best type to buy, and which brands I trust. Whether you’ve been curious about creatine or confused by the hype, this episode will help you make an informed decision and avoid wasting money on overhyped products.CREATINE LINKSLegion: https://legionathletics.com/products/supplements/micronized-creatine-monohydrate/Optimum Nutrition: https://a.co/d/0WmjaRkJocko Fuel Creatine: https://jockofuel.com/products/jocko-creatine?variant=49526818636071MyProtein Creatine: https://us.myprotein.com/p/sports-nutrition/creatine-monohydrate-powder/10852411/?affil=thgppc&affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=USD&shippingcountry=US&gclsrc=aw.ds&product_id=10852414&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9O_BBhCUARIsAHQMjS7Td_sLoBtyF5m37hx9ju43UmYzK09lkcuOJXC4hWji6R9CPVlchVQaAk9eEALw_wcB&kwds=&thg_ppc_campaign=22257966687&gbraid=0AAAAADuhnyHJe_G4_G7b3vRsZNzFNxXiI&gad_campaignid=22268438041&gad_source=1&variation=10852414&adtype=pla_with_promotion&shoppingpid=30_Percent_Off_SelectedFIT40 LINKS✅ Want to get your nutrition on track?Book a free call with me to get an individualized nutrition assessment by clicking this link: https://calendly.com/coachfitzz/assessment?month=2025-06​​✅ Need professional level accountability to help you finally reach your goals?Check out FIT40 Online Coaching by clicking this link: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/application​​✅ Do you require scheduled personal training sessions to guarantee you get your workouts done?Claim your 1 Week Free online over Zoom or in-person (located in Greenville, NC) by clicking this link: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/personaltrainingAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

In this episode of the FIT40 Podcast, I sit down with Melody Schoenfeld—record-holding powerlifter, strongwoman, author, and vegan metal singer—to explore what it really takes to build lasting strength. We dive into the difference between absolute and relative strength, why women should lift heavier, how to train around pain instead of through it, and the lifestyle habits that keep you lifting strong for decades. This is a must-listen for anyone serious about training smart, aging well, and staying resilient for the long haul.HOW TO FIND MELODY:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/5ftoffury1/Melody’s Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B077TL7Q5N/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=5db76f6e-71db-4e2e-8351-e652a5bc8d73&ref_=ap_rdr&ccs_id=dc3a4758-31d5-4836-a846-098ea36a5909FIT40 LINKS✅ Want to get your nutrition on track?Book a free call with me to get an individualized nutrition assessment by clicking this link: https://calendly.com/coachfitzz/assessment?month=2025-06​​✅ Need professional level accountability to help you finally reach your goals?Check out FIT40 Online Coaching by clicking this link: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/application​​✅ Do you require scheduled personal training sessions to guarantee you get your workouts done?Claim your 1 Week Free online over Zoom or in-person (located in Greenville, NC) by clicking this link: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/personaltrainingAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

In this episode of the FIT40 podcast, we dive deep into the most important numbers to focus on to get fit and stay fit for life when it comes to lifestyle management. We cover key health metrics like blood work, cardio, and strength standards that can have a profound impact on your overall wellbeing. Discover practical tips to optimize your cholesterol, blood pressure, A1C, and waist circumference - all essential markers for longevity. Plus, learn science-backed exercise guidelines to improve your cardiac health and build functional strength. This comprehensive guide provides the roadmap to take control of your fitness and wellness at 40 and beyond.FIT40 LINKS:Toned In 20 Workouts: https://fit40-online-coaching.kit.com/1f640492ffBook Your Free Nutrition Assessment: https://calendly.com/coachfitzz/assessmentFIT40 Coaching Info & Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/applicationFIT40 Family Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fit40familyAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40CITATIONSMile Run Standards – Citations & SourcesBlair SN, et al. (1996).Influences of cardiorespiratory fitness and other precursors on cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in men and women. JAMA.▸ Demonstrates strong correlation between cardiorespiratory fitness and mortality.American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 10th ed.▸ Provides normative values for VO₂ max and field tests like the 1-mile run.Cooper KH (1968).A means of assessing maximal oxygen intake. Correlation between field and treadmill testing. JAMA.▸ Foundational study introducing the Cooper test and correlating running distance/time to aerobic capacity.10-Mile Bike Standards – Citations & SourcesCooper InstituteThe Cooper Test Manual (Bike variant).▸ Adaptation of the original Cooper test for stationary and road bikes.Kodama S, et al. (2009).Cardiorespiratory fitness as a quantitative predictor of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events. JAMA.Ainsworth BE, et al. (2011).Compendium of Physical Activities: Classification of energy costs of human physical activities.▸ Supports METs estimation for cycling time trials.British Cycling Time Trial Norms▸ Competitive amateur cycling data used for benchmarking 10-mile efforts.Push-Up Standards – Citations & SourcesYang J, et al. (2019).Association Between Push-up Exercise Capacity and Future Cardiovascular Events Among Active Adult Men. JAMA Network Open.▸ Men completing ≥40 push-ups had dramatically lower cardiovascular event risk.ACSM & NSCA Normative DataACSM’s Fitness Assessment ManualNSCA’s Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning▸ Provide age- and sex-specific push-up standards.Kraschnewski JL, et al. (2013).Is strength training associated with mortality benefits? Prev Med.Chin-Ups / Inverted Rows – Citations & SourcesRantanen T, et al. (1999).Midlife muscle strength and human longevity up to age 100 years. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci.▸ Strength and functional movement as predictors of longevity.ACSM Guidelines & NSCA Standards▸ Norms for bodyweight strength tasks including pull-ups and rows.Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) & USMC Standards▸ Used to create practical strength thresholds for chin-ups by age/sex.Fagan JM, et al. (2020).Maximal upper-body strength and pull-up performance in physically active adults.▸ Correlates pull-up performance with upper body strength and endurance.Reverse Lunge Standards – Citations & SourcesSchoenfeld BJ, et al. (2016).Resistance training volume enhances muscle hypertrophy. J Strength Cond Res.Cook G. (2010).Movement: Functional Movement Systems.▸ Assesses quality and asymmetry in single-leg patterns like lunges.Kraemer WJ & Ratamess NA. (2004).Fundamentals of resistance training: progression and exercise prescription. Med Sci Sports Exerc.ACSM’s Position Stand on Resistance Training for Healthy Adults▸ Confirms efficacy and safety of loaded single-leg exercises for aging resilience.Functionally-relevant studies on fall risk and lower-body strengthHughes VA, et al. (2001). Age-related changes in strength and performance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

In this episode, we dive deep into the myth of slowing metabolism as we age. Our guest, Andy Morgan, the founder of Ripped Body and co-author of the Muscle and Strength Pyramid books, shares his expertise on why metabolism remains relatively stable well into our 60s. We explore the real reasons behind perceived metabolic slowdown, such as decreased physical activity and muscle mass, and provide practical strategies for maintaining a healthy metabolism at any age. Whether you're a busy parent over 40 or simply looking to optimize your health and fitness, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights to help you overcome the challenges of changing metabolism and achieve your goals.HOW TO FIND ANDY:Macro Calculator & 15 Day Kickstart Bundle: https://rippedbody.com/macro-calculator/Website: https://rippedbody.com/Podcast: https://podcast.rippedbody.com/FIT40 LINKS:FIT40 Family Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fit40familyFIT40 Coaching Info & Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/applicationAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

In this episode, I'm going to be talking all about whether women over 40 should be using a weighted vest. These fitness accessories are all the rage right now, with claims that they can help build muscle and bone, as well as burn a ton of calories. But are these benefits real, and more importantly, are they worth it for the 40+ woman? I'll dive into the facts, separate fiction from reality, and provide practical guidance on how to incorporate weighted vests into your fitness routine in a safe and effective way. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced exerciser, you won't want to miss my tips on choosing the right vest and progressing your workouts over time. Join me as we unlock the full potential of weighted vests for women over 40 and take your fitness to new heights.FIT40 LINKS:The Weighted Vest I Use: https://a.co/d/5EHtyHeToned In 20 Workouts: https://fit40-online-coaching.kit.com/1f640492ffBook Your Free Nutrition Assessment: https://calendly.com/coachfitzz/assessmentFIT40 Coaching Info & Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/applicationFIT40 Family Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fit40familyAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

Jeb Stuart Johnston, an emotional eating expert and board-certified health and wellness coach, shares his journey battling emotional barriers. He reveals powerful strategies for overcoming emotional eating and fostering resilience. The discussion dives into managing triggers and the concept of urge surfing, along with the significance of self-regulation. Jeb emphasizes a compassionate approach to personal identity and body image, urging growth through discomfort and self-acceptance. His insights resonate with anyone looking to transform their relationship with food and fitness.

DESCRIPTION:In this episode, we explore the nuanced approach to setting personal bests and pushing your limits in fitness. As a seasoned trainer, I share insights on how to navigate the plateau phase of your training journey, where progress slows down, and the importance of listening to your body's needs. We discuss strategies for finding the sweet spot between effort and recovery, avoiding overtraining, and celebrating small wins to maintain long-term success, especially for busy parents. By embracing a flexible, intuitive approach to goal-setting, you can continue to make sustainable progress and feel amazing in your health and fitness journey.FIT40 LINKS:FIT40 Family Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fit40familyFIT40 Coaching Info & Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/applicationAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ashley Dwyer, a doctor of pharmacology, weight loss expert, and founder of BDN Coaching. We dive deep into the differences between holistic and functional health, explore strategies for improving conditions like PCOS and hypothyroidism naturally, and unpack the complexities of stress management and supplement usage. Dr. Dwyer shares her valuable insights on navigating the journey of chronic dieting, understanding the female cycle, and making the most of wearable fitness trackers. Whether you're a busy parent 40+ or simply seeking a balanced approach to health and wellness, this episode is packed with actionable tips and expert advice you won't want to miss.HOW TO FIND ASHLEY:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.dwyer/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.dwyerWebsite: https://teambdncoaching.com/Cortisol Masterclass: https://info.thebigdaynutrition.com/CortisolTrainingFIT40 LINKS:FIT40 Family Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fit40familyFIT40 Coaching Info & Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/applicationAFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

Mother’s Day Scholarship Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/mothersdayscholarshipDESCRIPTION:In this episode of the Fit40 Podcast, I'm sharing a concrete 12-week plan to help busy parents over 40 burn 12 lbs of fat. I'll reveal the keys to effective exercise, nutrition, and stress management that will enable you to get the results you want without burnout. Learn how to build sustainable healthy habits and take back control of your fitness, so you can look and feel amazing this summer. Don't miss my actionable tips to simplify your path to fat loss success.AFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com

HOW TO FIND TOM:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoenixperformancetraining/EliteFTS Articles: https://www.elitefts.com/education/create-a-whole-body-training-program/Elite FTS Youtube: FIT40 LINKS:FIT40 Family Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fit40familyFIT40 Coaching Info & Application: https://fit40coaching.my.canva.site/applicationDESCRIPTION:In this insightful episode, we welcome Elite FTS Coach Tom Shepard to share his wealth of knowledge on strength training, exercise, and nutrition. Tom provides valuable advice for busy parents and individuals looking to improve their health and fitness, drawing from his extensive experience as a respected coach, author, and presenter in the strength training community. Listeners will gain practical tips on developing a healthy relationship with fitness, maximizing strength gains, and the importance of movement quality, all while being inspired by Tom's personal journey. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to simplify their approach to exercise and nutrition and feel amazing.AFFILIATE LINKS:Try Tonal for 30 Days Risk Free: https://tonal.sjv.io/FIT40Get 10% Off The Genius Protein Shot: https://www.geniusshot.com/?ref=BRYAN_FIT40&transaction_id=10214dd14c839e450a4423af7b1f8eCONNECT WITH ME ONLINEFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryan.fitzsimmonsInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/coach_fitzz/⁠⁠⁠⁠Tiktok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@coach_fitzz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@bryan_fit40 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bryanfitzsimmon.substack.com