The Absolute Strength Podcast

Is Static Stretching Overrated? Progression, Cardio, and Fat Loss

30 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I'm joined by Nick Smoot to revisit several classic topics pulled from old articles he wrote on my website. We talk about whether sta...

How to Stay Strong Without Living in the Gym | Q&A

23 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this Q&A, Derek and I break down how to stay strong and in shape without living in the gym. We talk about what to prioritize when time is limited, ...

Steve Denovi - Powerlifting Longevity, Building Muscle, and the Gut Cut

16 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I'm joined by Steve Denovi to talk about powerlifting longevity, the importance of building muscle for maximizing strength potential,...

Nick Shaw - Why You Should Go All in on Building Muscle

09 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I'm joined by the CEO of RP Strength, Nick Shaw.   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Coac...

Charlie Dickson - Injuries, Longevity, and the Identity of a Lifter

02 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I'm joined by Charlie Dickson to dig into his powerlifting journey through repeated injuries and the long road back from them. We tal...

How to Reach Your Goals in 2026

19 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I look back at 2025 and ahead to 2026.    Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/subscribe   Co...

Martha Salaya - Leaving Powerlifting and Building a Wellness Physique

12 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with Martha Salaya and dig into her shift from powerlifting to the wellness bodybuilding division. We talk about why she s...

Rep Ranges, Smart Programming, and the Truth About Weight Loss Drugs

05 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk with Nick Smoot.   Follow Nick: https://smootfit.substack.com https://www.instagram.com/smoot_fit   Sign up for the newslett...

Why Your Bench Sucks & Your Weekends Derail You | Q&A

28 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I dig into real questions from listeners who are trying to make progress while dealing with normal life. We talk about why ...

John Rusin - How to Train Pain Free for Life

21 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. John Rusin to break down what it really takes to lift for a lifetime. We cover smart exercise selection, how to t...

Training Intensity Made Simple: RPE, RIR, and Percentages Explained

14 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I break down the differences between percentages, RPE, and RIR, and how each one actually fits into smart programming. We t...

A Case Study in Becoming a Hybrid Athlete - Nick Smoot

07 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend Nick Smoot to catch up and talk training, life, and everything in between. We dive into his recent...

How to Train Hard Without Falling Apart | Q&A

31 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this Q&A episode, Derek and I answer listener questions about training, motivation, and longevity in the gym. We talk about how to push intensity w...

Alex Viada — What It Really Means to Be a Hybrid Athlete

24 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Alex Viada has been discussing hybrid training for over a decade, long before it gained popularity on social media. In this conversation, we explore w...

Ben Yanes — How to Think Smarter About "Science-Based" Fitness

17 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The term "science-based" gets thrown around a lot in fitness, but most people using it don't actually think critically about what it means. In this ep...

How the Fitness Industry Lost Its Way

10 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I talk about how the fitness industry lost its way. What used to be about sharing knowledge, learning from experience, and ...

How to Train Hard, Stay Motivated, and Learn From Pain [Q&A]

03 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this week's Q&A, Derek and I sit down to tackle some fun and thought-provoking questions from the listeners. We dig into how to really know if you'...

Nick Smoot – Lessons from Being Kyle's Understudy and an Online Coaching OG

01 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I catch up with my longtime friend Nick Smoot. We look back on the early Hunt Fitness days, what it was like for him to be my protég...

Matt McLeod – The Case for Taking Big Swings

29 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with Matt McLeod to talk about taking risks, building deeper relationships, and stepping into the unknown. We dive into th...

Overrated or Underrated: 2025 Fitness Trends Part 2

26 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I rate more fitness topics as overrated or underrated.   Sign up for the newsletter: https://kylehuntfitness.beehiiv.com/s...

Overrated or Underrated: 2025 Fitness Trends

19 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I run through the hottest fitness trends of 2025 and decide if they're overrated, underrated, or right on the money. From b...

Joe Stanek - Current Best Practices in Raw Powerlifting

17 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with powerlifting coach Joe Stanek to unpack the current best practices in raw powerlifting. We dive into new programming ...

Fitness Culture: Then vs. Now

12 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I dive into how gym and fitness culture have changed over the years. We talk about what's been lost, what's been gained, an...

Eric Helms - Best Practices in Natural Bodybuilding

05 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with Eric Helms — coach, researcher, and author of the Muscle and Strength Pyramids to break down what's actually workin...

Training Around Injuries + Q&A

29 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss how to train around nagging injuries and answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up ...

Science Based Lifting is Broken

22 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I talk about the problems with the new science-based lifting crowd. Has it gone too far? Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sig...

Why Barbell Training is Still the Gold Standard for Strength & Size

15 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I break down why barbell exercises are still the most effective way to build strength, muscle, and athleticism. We cover th...

The Natty or Not Debate

08 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into the ongoing natty or not debate—why it matters, how it affects the fitness s...

Should We Revisit What to Eat Before, During & After Workouts?

06 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Is workout nutrition still worth obsessing over? For a while, it was treated like gospel—pre-workout meals, intra carbs, post-workout shakes. Then t...

The Only 10 Exercises You Need [Q&A]

01 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I tackle some big-picture questions that every lifter thinks about—starting with the only 10 exercises we'd pick if we h...

Why Old School Bodybuilding Training Still Works

25 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this solo episode, I take a deep dive into the muscle-building philosophies that defined mid-2000s bodybuilding—programs like Max-OT, DoggCrapp T...

When to Break the Fitness Rules (And When to Follow Them)

18 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever heard the expression "you have to know the rules so you know when to break them?" In this episode, Kyle and Derek explore when it actual...

Sometimes You Gotta Be a Little Crazy in the Gym

11 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek get real about what it actually takes to push past plateaus and stand out in the gym. Sometimes you just gotta flip th...

How to Look Like a Bodybuilder and Perform Like an Athlete

09 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Do you think you have to choose between looking jacked and moving like an athlete? In this episode, I break down what hybrid training really is — an...

The Lost Art of the Training Program

04 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I dive into what nobody's talking about anymore — the actual training program. These days, everyone obsesses over exercis...

Mind Games, Muscle Gains, and the Social Media Trap [Q&A]

27 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this Q&A episode, Kyle and Derek answer listener-submitted questions on everything from mental toughness in the gym to dealing with imposter syndro...

You Don't Have a Fat Loss Problem You Have a Consistency Problem

25 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

- Get 50% off your first Magic Mind subscription using the code ABSTRENGHT50 at https://www.magicmind.com/abstrenght50 It's not your macros, your wor...

Why Summer Is the Best Time to Rethink Your Training

20 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Summer throws a wrench in most training routines—but maybe that's a good thing. In this episode, we break down why summer is actually the perfect ti...

Iron Therapy: The Mental Health Benefits of Lifting Weights

13 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I dive into the mental health benefits of lifting weights. We talk about how training gives you more than just strength—i...

How Mental Training Improves Strength Performance in the Gym

11 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

- Get 50% off your first Magic Mind subscription using the code ABSTRENGHT50 at https://www.magicmind.com/abstrenght50   Athletic performance—and s...

How to Train Hard When You Don't Feel Like It

06 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Let's face it — motivation comes and goes. In this episode, we break down how to show up and train hard anyway. Whether you're stressed, tired, busy...

Train Your Mind for Peak Performance With Dr. Jason Selk

04 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Jason Selk, performance coach to elite athletes and bestselling author, to break down the mental side of high perfo...

What We Really Think About Fitfluencers, Hybrid Training, and Biomechanics [Q&A]

30 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this Q&A episode, Derek and I answer your best questions from the month. We break down the influencer vs. expert debate—do you really need coachi...

AI Won't Replace You but Someone Using It Might With Adam Whisler

28 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I'm joined by Adam Whisler for a deep dive into the rise of artificial intelligence—not the sci-fi fantasy, but the real tools that...

How to Train for HYROX - Science Explains

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this solo episode, I dive deep into HYROX—the fast-growing hybrid fitness race. Using insights from a recent research review, I explain the HYROX...

#500 - 9 Years of the Podcast & the Murph Challenge

23 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this milestone episode, Kyle and Derek reminisce about nine years of The Absolute Strength Podcast—how it started, what's changed, and what advic...

Ben Yanes on Applying Biomechanics to Bodybuilding

21 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Ben Yanes joins me to discuss biomechanics and bodybuilding. We talk about how critical thinking and biomechanics go hand in hand whe...

What Actually Works: Science vs. Bro Science

16 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into science vs. bro science. More specifically, should you always follow what scie...

Justin King: How to Achieve Life-Transformative Results

14 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with Justin King, bodybuilder, trainer, and the guy behind some of the biggest names in t...

Influencers vs Experts: Who Deserves Your Attention?

09 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss one of the most critical conversations in the fitness space—real science vs. b...

Train, Protect, and Provide With Jason Khalipa

07 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with CrossFit Games champion and fitness entrepreneur Jason Khalipa. We dive into Jason's...

The One Training Mistake Everyone Makes – And How to Fix It

02 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into your questions all about building muscle and optimizing your training. We cove...

Can Cardio Actually Help You Build Muscle?

25 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I explore how strategically adding cardio and increasing your daily activity can actually ...

The Bodybuilding Diet: How the Pros Get Jacked and Shredded

18 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into bodybuilding nutrition—what it really means to eat for aesthetics and h...

How to Make Progress as an Advanced Lifter With Eric Helms

16 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with Eric Helms and discuss what it takes to continue making progress as an advanced lift...

How to Train Like a Bodybuilder: Designing the Ideal Split

11 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss exactly how to set up a bodybuilding training program to maximize muscle growth ...

Strength Training for BJJ Athletes with Josh Settlage

09 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with Josh Settlage, a strength coach who specializes in helping Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu athle...

Volume vs. Intensity: What's Best for Muscle Growth?

04 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I dive into one of the biggest muscle-building debates: volume vs. intensity. Should you focus on li...

Streetlifting: The Strength Sport You Need to Know About

02 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I sit down with Eugene from USA Streetlifting. Streetlifting is a competitive strength sport that bl...

Powerlifting Q & A - How to Peak for a Meet Without Wrecking Yourself

28 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I tackle a loaded Q&A covering everything from avoiding breaking down during meet prep to ...

Tips for Your First Powerlifting Meet

26 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I break down everything you need to know for your first powerlifting meet. From deciding to compete ...

The Powerlifting Diet - How to Eat for Maximum Strength

21 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Although the stereotype has changed, quality nutrition is probably the last thing you associate with powerlifting. For decades, the image of a 300-pou...

Powerlifting Technique Guide: Lift Heavier With Better Form

14 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss the fundamentals of powerlifting technique—how to fine-tune your squat, bench,...

How to Train Like a Powerlifter: Workouts, Splits, and Strategies

07 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss how to get strong on the squat, bench press, and deadlift. We cover what powerli...

The 8 Worst Fat Loss Mistakes (Avoid These in 2025)

04 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about the 8 worst fat loss mistakes to avoid in 2025. Starting a fat-loss journey can be both exhilarating and daunting. There...

Fat Loss Q&A: Your Biggest Questions Answered

28 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer fat loss questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   The questions o...

The Best Fat Loss Supplements and Drugs

21 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into fat loss supplements and drugs. As always, we cut through the hype, separ...

Strength Training & Cardio for Fat Loss

14 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into the best way to train for fat loss—without sacrificing strength or musc...

Fat Loss Nutrition

07 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive deep into the fundamentals of fat-loss nutrition. We break down what actually matte...

Jim Wendler

05 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, I'm joined once again by Jim Wendler, author and creator of the popular 5/3/1 program. Making his th...

There Are No Good or Bad Foods

31 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into one of the biggest nutrition myths out there—the idea that certain foods are...

You Don't Need More Fitness Information

24 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into a topic that hits home for so many of us: the truth about why most people aren...

Genetics vs. Hard Work: Which One Really Matters for Strength? [Q&A]

17 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer a variety of listener questions. We dive into topics like workout efficiency, bal...

The Hierarchy of Training and Nutrition Success

10 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of The Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I dive into the hierarchy of training and nutrition importance, breaking down the layers o...

Can You Pass These 5 Fitness Tests? | 2025 Absolute Strength Challenge

03 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss 5 fitness tests we think everyone should be able to do. We are calling it the 20...

How to Reach Your Goals in 2025

20 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss how to crush your goals in 2025. Just setting New Year's resolutions is not enou...

The Consistency Diet – A Simple Way to Always Be on the Plan

18 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I've been searching high and low for nutrition secrets for decades. At first, it was a selfish pursuit. I was Ponce de Leon looking for the Fountain o...

Major Fitness Topics of the Year and a Look Ahead to 2025

13 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss the major fitness topics of the year and look ahead to 2025. Sit back, relax and...

Lifting Heavy All Year, Flexible Dieting, and More [Q&A]

06 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer listeners' questions. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Questions on the show: I've...

Bodybuilding Is the Best Training for Life

22 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss the importance of finding goals that matter to you and why bodybuilding is the b...

Our All-Time Favorite Training Splits

15 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss the big sports weekend ahead. Who is going to win, Jake Paul or Mike Tyson? We d...

How Realistic Is Getting Super Jacked and Strong?

08 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss how realistic it is to get super jacked and strong. Can anyone bench press 315 p...

Quick Workouts, Supplements, and Best Halloween Candy [Q&A]

01 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.   Questions on the show: ...

Jeff Nippard Attacked Plus Other Fitness News

25 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss the recent big news in the fitness industry. What do we think about Jeff Nippard...

The Future of Bodybuilding and Powerlifting - Is It Dying?

18 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss the future of pro and local fitness competitions. For example, what will the fut...

51 Books Every Man Should Read in His Lifetime

15 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

I love reading. It's one of my favorite things to do in my spare time. But, when you get deep into reading, one of the first issues you run into is wh...

Forgotten Muscle-Building Techniques for Big Gains

11 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss intensity techniques you might have forgotten that can make a big difference in ...

33 Life Lessons From 33 Years

08 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

My birthday message - 33 lessons from 33 years of living and learning.  Nobody likes you when you're twenty-three. Why? Because as I sit down to wri...

Custom Programs, Hybrid Training, Lifting Gear, and More [Q&A]

04 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer your questions! Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Questions on the show: Hey Kyle a...

Is Being Obsessed With Fitness Okay?

27 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I discuss times when we were the most obsessed with fitness. We also touch on the benefits...

How to Break Strength Training Plateaus

20 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I ask ChatGPT for a list of questions to answer on the show. It's funny. We asked for ques...

Can You Get Shredded With Walking? [Q&A]

13 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I ask ChatGPT for a topic to discuss (it's pretty interesting) and then jump into some lis...

Old School Training Will Get You Jacked

06 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, we discuss having an old-school mentality and not overcomplicating your fitness.   Sit back, relax,...

Why Do You Train the Way That You Do?

30 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, we ask an interesting question: Why do you train the way that you do? A lot of it has to do with you...

How Often Should You Change Exercises (Q&A)

23 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, we answer questions from listeners.   Questions on the show: How often should you change exercises...

Things Broscience Got Right

16 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, we discuss things Broscience got right. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the newsletter: T...

How to Stop Getting Hurt in the Gym

09 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, we will discuss how to stop getting hurt in the gym. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Sign up for the ...

The 7 Worst Testosterone Killers to Avoid

02 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Absolute Strength Podcast, we will discuss the 7 worst testosterone killers to avoid. Testosterone isn't just about getting jac...

The 10 Most Overrated Exercises For Muscle Growth

26 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

One of the best aspects of training for muscle growth is the freedom of choice. There's no exercise that you must do. You can build your legs without ...

The Best and Worst Machines at the Gym

19 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss our favorite and least favorite machines in the gym and how to implement them in your program. Sit back, relax, a...