The Absolute Strength Podcast

8 Reasons You Look Like You Don't Lift

17 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

It's a question that often lingers in the air at the gym-why am I not seeing better results? We all know the primary reason we train is to look super ...

Are You Doing Everything You Can to Build Muscle?

12 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I ask a simple question: Are You Doing Everything You Can to Build Muscle? Of course, most people's first instinct is yes. ...

5 Simple Daily Habits to Improve Your Fitness and Life

10 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

One of my childhood heroes was legendary wrestler and coach Dan Gable. Dan is known for many famous quotes, but my favorite is this: "If it is import...

Progress Is Not Always Linear...and That's Fine

05 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss why progress is not always linear and outline a new program to look and feel good for Derek. Sit back, relax, and...

Lengthened Partials, Training for Muscle and Strength, and More

28 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Questions on the show: As you guys have mentioned on the...

Does Biomechanics Have a Place in Bodybuilding?

14 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the recent popularity of using biomechanics to help with exercise selection. Does this make sense? And, if so, ho...

Good Sleep, Overrated Protein Bars, and New Training Shoes

31 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the benefits of sleep, why most protein bars are overrated, and the best shoes for training. Sit back, relax, and...

Nutrition to Become an Ultimate Human Weapon

24 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss how to eat to be jacked, strong, and capable of kicking ass. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Get your FREE power...

How to Become the Ultimate Human Weapon

17 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss how to train to be jacked, strong, and capable of kicking ass. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Get your FREE pow...

Tom Brady Roast, Paying College Athletes, and Home Gyms

10 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the recent Tom Brady roast, why its good college athletes are getting paid, training at home, and more. Sit back...

How to Trick Yourself Into Amazing Results

03 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss why I had to cancel the podcast last week, the movie industry, Dana White's new "biohacking" protocol, and why so...

This Is What Your Training Is Missing

19 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss what your training is missing. It's probably not what you think. Or maybe it is. You will have to listen to find ...

UFC 300, Hydration, Sleep, and More

12 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss UFC 300, proper hydration, sleep, and more. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Get your FREE powerlifting program h...

A Complete Well-Rounded Program for Functional Fitness

05 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I outline a complete program to develop a well-rounded functional fitness routine. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Get you...

Can You Make Progress by Training 2X a Week? [Q&A]

29 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss various topics before getting into Q and A. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Get your FREE powerlifting program h...

Tips and Tricks for Fat Loss

22 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss setting up a diet for fat loss and some mistakes to avoid. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Get your FREE powerli...

A Simple and Effective Push, Pull, Legs Routine to Build Muscle

15 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I outline an efficient PPL routine to build muscle in less than 60 minutes per workout. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Ge...

Why Are Powerlifting Careers So Short?

01 Mar 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss why powerlifting careers are so short. Does it come down to the psychology and mindset around powerlifting? Injur...

How to Eat Healthy for Life

23 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss cultivating longevity in nutrition. How do you stick to healthy eating for life? Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   ...

How to Lift Weights for Life

16 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss cultivating longevity in fitness. How do you become a "lifer" who never stops? Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    G...

Should You Compete in Fitness?

09 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss why you train. Are you motivated to compete or just self-improvement? Which is better? We also answer a few quest...

Advice to Our Younger Selves

02 Feb 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the value of experience and what advice we would give our younger selves when we just started lifting weights.  ...

Football, Genetics, and Having a Mindset for Success

26 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the Lions' appearance in the NFC Championship game, genetics' role in sports, and cultivating a winning mindset. ...

Meet Day Tips, Fast Fat Loss, and Intensity Techniques [Q&A]

19 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners.    Get your FREE powerlifting program here: Essential Strength. Hire Kyle as your coa...

How to Plan For a Successful Year of Training

12 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss periodization and how to plan your training for success. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.    Hire Kyle as your co...

The Unwritten Rules of Gym Etiquette

05 Jan 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss our gym pet peeves. Do you break any of the unwritten rules of gym etiquette? Sit back, relax, and enjoy.   ...

How to Reach Your Goals in 2024

22 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss how to reach your goals in 2024. We review how to set SMART goals, time management strategies, and more. Sit b...

Do You Need to Do Deadlifts? [Q&A]

15 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Questions on the show: 1: I'm a former powerlifter, ...

How to Make Progress as an Advanced Lifter, Activation Exercises and Pre-workout Nutrition [Q&A]

08 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Questions on the show: I have a question for you an...

Things We Have Changed Our Mind About

01 Dec 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss fitness topics they have recently changed their mind about. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Hire Kyle as your...

Have Your Pie and Eat It Too

24 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss why Thanksgiving and other holidays should not harm your fitness progress. This time of year is about enjoying...

How to Stop an All or Nothing Mentality

17 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss why now is the best time to start anything and how to stop having an all-or-nothing mentality. We also go over...

Checking All of the Boxes Except Effort

10 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss avoiding checking all of the boxes in your fitness journey except effort. Do you weigh, measure, and track all...

Refeeds, Supplements, the Secret to Big Arms, and at What Age Do You Reach Peak Strength? [Q&A]

03 Nov 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss a variety of topics. We begin by pondering at what age you reach peak powerlifting performance. Then, at the e...

How to Get Out of a Workout Slump

27 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss avoiding burnout, diminishing returns from training, and utilizing intensity techniques. Sit back, relax, and ...

The New Era of Fitness Influencer

20 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss AI, Olympic lifting, and the new age of fitness influencers.    Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehun...

Powerlifting Mistakes, Volume Cycling, and Rest Day Guilt

13 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy! Questions on the show: I am new to powerlifting and want...

How to Attack Your Fitness Goals

06 Oct 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss how to aggressively pursue big-time fitness goals. Most of the time, you want a sustainable approach. However,...

The Key to Long-Term Fitness Success

29 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss achieving long-term fitness success with sustainable nutrition and training protocols. Sit back, relax, and en...

Maximizing the Rep | Technique, Range of Motion, and More

22 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss getting the most out of every rep. We talk a lot about effort, but effort only matters if you do the movements...

Cardio 101: Tips for Success

15 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss using cardio for health and fat loss. We go over everything you need to know in programming effective cardio w...

Changing Exercises, Workout Music, and Powerlifting Goals

08 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek answer questions from listeners.    Questions on the show: I just recently started a new job and I'm out of town al...

Improve Your Fitness With Better Sleep, Nutrition, and Mobility

01 Sep 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss the missing links in your fitness journey - sleep, nutrition, and mobility/flexibility. Sit back, relax, and e...

Finding Accomplishment and Enjoyment in Fitness

25 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Kyle and Derek discuss ways to reestablish a sense of accomplishment from training and how a "functional" approach can lead to more e...

Train Hard and Avoid Powerlifting Fads [Q&A]

18 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I catch up after a two-week break and answer questions from listeners.    Questions on the show: In regards to doing squ...

The Future of Fitness and Life Update

11 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about the future of fitness and provide a quick life update. Thank you to everyone who regularly listens to the show. 400 epis...

Fat Loss, Exercise Equipment, and Sports Specialization [Q&A]

04 Aug 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from listeners. Can you believe it is August already? Kids will be going back to school soon. Football season is s...

Don't Overcomplicate Your Fitness [Q&A]

28 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!    Questions on the show:  1: If proximity to failure is ...

What Is Functional Fitness and How to Achieve It?

26 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I aim to define functional fitness. We have all heard and even used the expression "functional fitness," but what does it even mean? ...

The Keys to Maximizing Your Deadlift

21 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss improving your deadlift. We cover technique, programming, exercise selection, and more.    Sit back, relax, and...

The Keys to Maximizing Your Bench Press

14 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss improving your bench press. We cover technique, programming, exercise selection, and more.    Sit back, relax, ...

How to Add 100LBS to Your Squat

07 Jul 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss improving your squat. We cover technique, programming, exercise selection, and more.    Sit back, relax, and en...

Kyle and Derek Are Quitting Lifting!?

30 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I talk about lifting with intent, avoiding plateaus, and staying excited about fitness. Oh, and are we going to stop liftin...

Dealing With Joint Pain, Benefits of Low Volume Training, Emotional Eating, and Dad Life [Q&A]

27 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!  Questions on the show: Hey Kyle, what do you recommend for joint pa...

How to Reach Autopilot With Your Fitness

23 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss how to reach your fitness goals without constantly stressing about it. It's cliche for people to say fitness need...

Shoulders and Arms 101: The Complete Training Blueprint

16 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss shoulder and arms training to round out our muscle-building series. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.    Hire Kyle as...

Leg Training 101: The Key to Building Big Legs

09 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss how to build big legs. We cover the best exercises for quads, hamstrings, and calves and how to program them for ...

Back Training 101: Unlock Your Back's Potential for Muscle Growth

02 Jun 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the nuances of back training. We review the best exercises, tips, and techniques to take your back training to th...

Chest Training 101: Building a Strong and Impressive Chest

26 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I dive deep into chest training. We discuss the best exercises, optimal frequency, volume, intensity, etc. Sit back, relax,...

Will Ahmed - Founder and CEO at Whoop

24 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I sit down with Will Ahmed, the founder and CEO at Whoop. During the show, we discuss how to use data tracking to improve your perfor...

Why You Need to Have a Challenge

19 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss a wide range of topics. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/se...

Advice For Your First Powerlifting Meet

12 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss how to start competing in powerlifting and give advice for your first meet.    Hire Kyle as your coach: http:/...

A List of Supplements That Actually Work

05 May 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I dive deep into our history with supplements. Looking back, many of the ingredients we recommend today have been around fo...

Everything You Need in Your Gym Bag

28 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss what you should pack in your gym bag. We go over everything from headphones to knee sleeves, wrist wraps, belts, ...

High Reps vs. Low Reps [Q&A]

21 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/...

How to Use Deloads to Make Better Progress

14 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss everything you need to know about deloads. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.ky...

The Best Training Splits for Building Muscle and Strength

07 Apr 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I discuss the best training splits for building muscle and strength. We talk about the pros and cons of full body, upper/lo...

Overrated or Underrated Fitness Topics Part 2 (Creatine, Deadlifts, Motivation, etc.)

31 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I return with part two of overrated or underrated. We discuss creatine, whey protein, stretching, fiber, deadlifts for hype...

Overrated or Underrated Fitness Topics Part 1

24 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I play a game of overrated or underrated with popular fitness topics. Today's episode is part one. Next week we will return...

Training Intensity, Hunger, and the Best Time to Do Cardio

17 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/s...

Minimalist Training, AI in Fitness, and Is Erythritol Safe

07 Mar 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In episode 375 of the Absolute Strength podcast, I talk about Jon Jones's return to the UFC, Arnold Classic memories, and answer questions from listen...

The Role Stress Plays in Our Training

27 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

In episode 374 of the Absolute Strength Podcast, I discuss stress's role in our training. Stress is a topic I talk about with clients quite a bit. It'...

Realistic Expectations for Muscle Growth, Sweating During Cardio, and the Key to Back Training

17 Feb 2023

Contributed by Lukas

We are back! In episode 373 of the Absolute Strength Podcast, Derek and I answer questions from listeners.  I appreciate everyone reaching out and wo...

How to Reach Your Goals in 2023 With Derek Charlebois

19 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I recap our year and look ahead to 2023. We also get into some of our goals for next year. Sit back, relax and enjoy.    ...

Ten Fat Loss Tips to Help You Lose Weight and Keep It Off

13 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about ten fat loss tips to help you lose weight and keep it off.    Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/...

Time-Efficient Training, the Best Form of Cardio, and Our Thoughts on Liver King

05 Dec 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.   Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitness.com/...

Volume vs. Intensity and Bro Splits vs. Push Pull Legs Q&A

24 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I recap UFC 280 and answer questions submitted by listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.    Questions on the show: Q1: How do you a...

Training and Nutrition Q and A

14 Oct 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions on the difference between training for powerlifting and bodybuilding, bad fitness advice, and avoiding b...

Muscle Building Tips With Derek Charlebois

19 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I talk about tips to help you build muscle. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!  Hire Kyle as your coach: http://www.kylehuntfitne...

The Whiteboard Daily Book of Cues With Karl Eagleman

12 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk with the man behind the Whiteboard Daily Instagram account, Karl Eagleman. During the show, we discuss his new book, The White...

When to Refeed and Is Muscle Scraping Good for Recovery?

05 Sep 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from listeners.  Questions on the show: Q 1: My question is, how do you know when is a good time to implement a r...

Are You Too Into Fitness?

31 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about if you can be too obsessed with fitness and answer questions submitted by listeners.    Questions: Q 1: When trying to...

Spot Reduction, Quick Warm-Ups, and Mistakes on the Big 3

22 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.  Questions:  Q1: In the last podcast, you talked about the best barb...

My Next Powerlifting Meet and Why You Are Not Losing Weight

15 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions about learning, our next powerlifting meet, selecting the right barbell for your home gym, why you are n...

The Pros and Cons of Popular Fad Diets

08 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions about leg drive in the bench press, non-complete protein sources, popular fad diets, and more.  Questions on the ...

How to Maintain Strength While Trying to Lose Weight

03 Aug 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I go over the books I read in July and answer questions from listeners.    Books I read in July The Terminal List – Jack Carr Sc...

The Protein Episode

25 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from listeners, three of which are on protein intake. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.  Questions: 1: What are some go...

Five Tips That Blew up My Bench Press, the Best Biceps Workout, and Advice for College Graduates

18 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I tell a bizarre story and answer five questions from listeners. Sit back, relax, and enjoy.  Questions on the show: 1: Hi Kyle, I'm...

Chris Bumstead's Training and Diet, Top 3 UFC Fighters of All Time, and Active Rest vs. Deloads

11 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about the books I read in June, give a detailed look at Chris Bumstead's training and diet, and answer questions from listener...

The Best Exercises for Each Muscle Group Feat. Derek Charlebois

04 Jul 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I go over our favorite exercises for each muscle group. We talk about everything from the back and chest to forearms and ca...

Double Progression, Vitamin Supplements, and Fat Loss Goals

27 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about fitness being more than what we do in the gym and answer listener questions.  Questions on the show: I have heard you ...

How to Optimize Training Volume, the Best Way to Combine Running With Weight Lifting, and What Makes a Bad Workout Program

20 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from the newsletter.    Questions on the show: Q1: How do you find the appropriate weekly volume for a muscle gr...

Advice for Older Lifters, How to Stay on the Plan During Vacations, and Non-linear Dieting

13 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I answer questions from my newsletter.  Questions on the show: Q#1:  I have been lifting consistently for five years. I listen to y...

How to Optimize Training Frequency, Too Much Caffeine, Following Your Passion, and More

06 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I go over five books I read in May, the relationship between volume and frequency, trusting the process, caffeine intake, and knowing...

The Ultimate Training Guide to Build Muscle

30 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I go over everything you need to know to build muscle. I talk about the role of progressive overload, mechanical tension, volume, int...

How Supplements Get Made

23 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Heather and I talk about supplement manufacturing 101. We dig into how supplements get made, quality control, testing for banned subs...

Tempo Training, Range of Motion, and Excuses

16 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Derek and I answer questions from listeners.  Questions on the show:  Hey Kyle, I love the podcasts with Derek. Can you ask him ho...

UFC 274 Recap, Productivity Tips, Intermittent Fasting, and Creatine Non-responders

09 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about Charles Oliveira's win over Justin Gaethje, productivity tips, cognitive benefits of intermittent fasting, creatine non-...

My Thoughts on Eating at Night, TRT, and Finding Training Partners

03 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, I talk about my Instagram experiment, the four books I read in April, and answer questions from listeners.  Download FREE Flexible D...

What to Eat Before, During, and After Workouts to Build Muscle and Improve Performance

29 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

The idea that you can maximize progress by altering what you eat before, during, and after a workout is nothing new. This concept is called peri-worko...