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

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

Philip Pape, Evidence-Based Nutrition Coach & Fat Loss Expertwitsandweights.com

For skeptics of the fitness industry who want to work smarter and more efficiently to build muscle and lose fat. Wits & Weights cuts through the noise and deconstructs health and fitness with an engineering mindset to help you develop a strong, lean physique without wasting time.

Nutrition coach Philip Pape explores EFFICIENT strength training, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies to optimize your body composition. Simple, science-based, and sustainable info from an engineer turned lifter (that's why they call him the Physique Engineer).

From restrictive fad diets to ineffective workouts and hyped-up supplements, there's no shortage of confusing information out there.

Getting in the best shape of your life doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. By using your WITS (mindset and systems!) and lifting WEIGHTS (efficiently!), you can build muscle, lose stubborn fat, and achieve and maintain your dream physique.

We bring you smart and efficient strategies for movement, metabolism, muscle, and mindset. You'll learn:
- Why fat loss is more important than weight loss for health and physique
- Why all the macros (protein, fats, and yes even carbs) are critical to body composition
- Why you don't need to spend more than 3 hours in the gym each week to get incredible results
- Why muscle (not weight loss) is the key to medicine, obesity, and longevity
- Why age and hormones (even in menopause) don't matter with the right lifestyle
- How the "hidden" psychology of your mind can unlock more personal (and physical) growth than you ever thought possible, and how to tap into that mindset

If you're ready to separate fact from fiction, learn what actually works, and put in the intelligent work, hit that "follow" button and let's engineer your best physique ever!

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Episodes

Bonus Episode: Introducing Wits & Weights Physique University

Are you frustrated with a lack of progress, even though you've been working hard? Maybe you've been going to the gym, tracking your food, or trying to improve your diet. In this episode, Philip is going to introduce something to you that's coming out soon that could very well change the way that you approach your fitness journey forever, not just physically, but also mentally, with the principles that we believe in on this show. Tune in to today's bonus episode for all the details behind the new...

Mar 23, 202437 min

Ep 157: Bill Campbell on Aggressive Dieting, Dirty Bulking, and Keto Effects on Muscle Building

What practical tips can you implement to lose fat as quickly as possible? How does a keto diet impact muscle-building? Dr. Bill Campbell, director of the Performance & Physique Enhancement lab at USF, is back on the show today. He was on the show in episode 92, where they discussed the latest findings on improving body composition through food selection, fat loss, training, diet breaks, and more. Philip ( @witsandweights ) invited him back to revisit the latest in rapid fat loss, including t...

Mar 22, 202456 minEp. 157

Quick Wits: The Fat Loss Protocol for Shedding Pounds Without Sacrificing Muscle

Want the secret to designing a fat loss diet that preserves muscle while shredding pounds? Today we break down the key components of a well-designed fat loss plan, including the calorie deficit, protein intake, strength training and recovery. We're going to walk through a hypothetical client's journey, complete with the numbers, and discover the power of using a special trick...instead of strict targets that can really trip people up, there's a special approach we like to take that makes it more...

Mar 21, 202412 min

Ep 156: How to Lose 1,000 Pounds

What would it take to lose 1,000 pounds? Find out the surprising truth about dieting and discover a radically different, evidence-based approach to transforming your body composition. In this episode, Philip ( @witsandweights ) talks about breaking the cycle of dieting and weight regain, strength training, and mindset shifts. It is not another quick fix or fad diet but a method that prioritizes long-term results through evidence-based approaches, focusing on body composition rather than simplist...

Mar 19, 202444 minEp. 156

Quick Wits: Are Six-Pack Abs Really Made in the Kitchen? 5 Steps to a Strong, Shredded, Core

What is the secret to sculpting eye-catching six-pack abs? It is not just about dieting. Abs can be made in the kitchen to an extent, but in this episode we are going to dive into 5 practical strategies that we use in our evidence-based coaching to help clients achieve a strong, shredded and functional core. Get you FREE copy of the March 2024 Issue of Body By Science by joining our Insiders List -- “Quick Wits” are short, 3-5 minute episodes between full episodes to give you an actionable strat...

Mar 18, 202410 min

Bonus Episode: Midlife Hormones, Macros, and Muscle for Women Over 40

This conversation is from my appearance on Karen Martel’s The Hormone Solution Podcast . Karen invited me on her podcast to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities women over 40 face when it comes to nutrition, fitness, and hormonal health. We covered a LOT of relevant topics, like common diet myths and personalized strategies to help women maintain energy, muscle mass, and metabolic health as they age. You’ll learn the importance of body recomposition and get some practical advice on op...

Mar 16, 20241 hr 12 min

Ep 155: 6 Steps to Rebuild Your Strongest, Healthiest Body Over 40 with Brian Gryn

Can you regain your energy and strength while losing inches to turn back the clock by 10-15 years or more? Today, Philip ( @witsandweights ) speaks with Brian Gryn, host of the "Get Lean, Eat Clean" podcast, author of "The Stepladder System," and the go-to guy for men over 40 who want to improve their health. Like Philip, he shares no-nonsense, practical fitness and nutrition advice. In this episode, Brian shares his six steps for rebuilding your strongest, healthiest body after 40. He shows you...

Mar 15, 202456 minEp. 155

Quick Wits: The TRUTH About Body Fat Measurement Devices

I can't tell you how many times somebody said, "but my body fat scale says I'm 22% body fat!" If you are relying on gadgets and devices to measure body fat, it might be time for a reality check. We're going to explore the accuracy of these devices and what you should be doing instead on today's Quick Wits. Shout out to Veronica in the Wits & Weights Facebook community for this topic! Could your trusty body fat scale be feeding you lies? It's time to uncover the truth behind body fat measurin...

Mar 14, 20245 min

Ep 154: How Women Can FINALLY Get Doctors to Listen (And Take Control of Their Health)

Have you ever felt dismissed by a healthcare professional when discussing your symptoms? What strategies can women use to advocate for themselves in the face of gaslighting? WARNING: This episode may contain discussions of medical trauma, sexual assault, and gaslighting within the healthcare system. If you're sensitive to these topics or feeling vulnerable, please listen with care, or feel free to skip this episode. Today, Philip ( @witsandweights ) invited two women from the Wits & Weights ...

Mar 12, 202457 minEp. 154

Quick Wits: How Strong Are You Really? Breaking Down the Numbers

Do you think you're strong, or perhaps you're not sure? Let's put that strength into perspective. Today we're going to dive into relative strength standards! We're going to look at some of the numbers and what exactly they mean for you in today's Quick Wits. Shout out to Carl B. for suggesting this topic! Today we navigate the landscape of what it means to be 'strong' in a world where raw lifting numbers are just part of the story. We're not just seeking to inflate our egos with impressive weigh...

Mar 11, 20246 min

Bonus Episode: Behind-the-Scenes Confessions from the Heart of Our Community

You spoke, and we listened! Today, we're diving into the results of our first-ever Wits & Weights Podcast Listener Survey. Tune in to find out what we learned about you, our amazing audience, and how your feedback is shaping the future of the show. And stick around until the end where I’ll be announcing the 5 winners of our survey prizes. This was livestreamed in the free Wits & Weights Facebook community , so if you're wondering what that’s all about, join our Facebook group using THIS ...

Mar 09, 202430 min

Ep 153: Time-Efficient Muscle Growth, Cardio for Lifters, and Metabolism Myths with Jordan Lips

Want to unlock time-efficient muscle growth? Tune in as Jordan Lips spills the secrets of hypertrophy optimization and the truth about metabolic adaptation! Today, Philip ( @witsandweights ) is joined by personal trainer, ex-gym owner, and MNU Certified Nutritionist Jordan Lips, who works exclusively online with people who want to get healthier across a broad range of goals. Philip invited Jordan on the show because of his straightforward approach to topics like metabolism and building muscle, w...

Mar 08, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 153

Quick Wits: The ONE Muscle-Building Nonnegotiable to Unlock Gains Forever

If you are chasing muscle growth, there is one principle above all others that you just can't ignore if you want to see gains (and it's not progressive overload!). We uncover the non-negotiable secret of getting stronger on today's Quick Wits. It's time to learn why THIS is the cornerstone for building strength, surpassing even the well-touted concept of progressive overload. I break down the art and science of training with an intelligent edge. You'll walk away with actionable insights to apply...

Mar 07, 20245 min

Ep 152: My Complete Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint (Bulking to Get Lean and Fit Over 40)

Today, Philip ( @witsandweights ) hosts a live training with the Wits and Weights community . He shares how he built 10 more pounds of muscle at 43 and your complete nutrition and training blueprint for doing the same thing. He discusses why you would want to gain weight on purpose, the fear of weight gain while building muscle, and the exact protocol behind it. Philip also talks about four bulking scenarios, how to distribute your macros, training principles, a new mantra to frame your mental s...

Mar 05, 202442 minEp. 152

Quick Wits: Do THIS With Your Cardio to Burn Even More Calories

Cardio is great for your cardiovascular health, but we also know it can contribute toward your metabolic rate when used strategically. Today, I'm going to share one unique strategy you might not have thought of (thanks Bryan Boorstein!) to ramp up and supercharge your metabolism when it comes to cardio. Learn why engaging in THESE cardiovascular exercises can make your body work overtime to adapt, effectively boosting your metabolic rate and breaking through physical and mental barriers...on tod...

Mar 04, 20244 min

Bonus Episode: How to Use "Physique Engineering" to Optimize Your Body Composition

This conversation is from my appearance on Andrew Romeo’s podcast, Romeo Athletics Radio . One of my long-time training coaches, Andrew invited me on to talk all things evidence-based fitness and flexible dieting. We discussed the intricacies of nutrition and fat loss, how to optimize your lifestyle for the best body composition, and my thoughts on tracking, what foods to eat, what to focus on first, and so much more. Enjoy my conversation with Andrew Romeo! Episode summary: We unravel the secre...

Mar 02, 202444 min

Ep 151: The Surprising Link Between Gut Health, Fat Loss, and Body Composition with Josh Dech

How do gut bacteria affect your metabolism, hormonal balance, inflammation, and overall physical performance? What foods and nutrients can nurture a healthy gut microbiome to enhance fat loss and improve body composition? In this episode, Philip ( @witsandweights ) speaks with Josh Dech, an ex-paramedic and Holistic Nutritionist specializing in gut health. They explore the complex, often misunderstood link between gut health, fat loss, and body composition. They bust some common myths and highli...

Mar 01, 202447 minEp. 151

Quick Wits: Do THIS to Unlock Gains and Always Get to the Gym

If you think progress in the gym or setting PRs is all about motivation, think again. In today's Quick Wits, learn about what TRULY drives new PRs, strength, and muscle for life! We dissect the common misconception that sheer drive is all you need to smash personal records and upgrade your physique. If you're ready to break that plateau and start making strides that stick, tune in and transform the way you think about making gains. No more winging it, no more waiting for motivation to strike—jus...

Feb 29, 20245 min

Ep 150: Why You Can’t Lose Weight While Others See Great Results

Does losing weight and, more importantly, losing fat feel impossible no matter how hard you try? Have you ever lost 10 pounds only to gain back 15? Do you dread stepping on the scale because it never seems to budge? If you can't figure out why the formula works for others but not you, this co-created and co-hosted episode breaks down the real reasons you haven’t been seeing results. Join Philip ( @witsandweights ) and his special co-host today, Scott Friedman, as they lift the curtain on common ...

Feb 27, 20241 hr 27 minEp. 150

Quick Wits: 12 Fat Loss Roadblocks

Struggling with fat loss can feel like a solo journey through a maze with no exit in sight, but what if you had a map and TWO companions to guide you through? Announcing an exciting FIRST for the podcast that you're going to love...on today's Quick Wits. Prepare to learn why some breeze through their fat loss journey while others hit wall after wall, and how understanding the nuances between fat and weight loss can make all the difference. Listen to the episode and then... The Power of Progress ...

Feb 26, 20244 min

Weekend Q&A: How Much Added Sugar Is "Unhealthy" If Your Goal Is Body Composition?

How does relatively high sugar affect your health, training, and gains? We're dissecting the sweet debate on how sugar influences body composition and its role in bulking and strength training. With a magnifying glass on the complexities of carbohydrates, from added sugars to whole foods, I'll guide you through the murky waters of muscle building and fat storage. The question we're answering is: "Intuition and general knowledge says it’s not the “healthiest” choice to fill your diet with a bunch...

Feb 24, 20249 min

Ep 149: 4 Surprising Ways to Lose That Midlife Belly Fat with Megan Dahlman

Are you grappling with persistent belly fat? Are the hormonal shifts typically experienced by women over 40 posing challenges to your fitness journey? Today, Philip ( @witsandweights ) speaks with fitness expert Megan Dahlman, the sought-after trainer for women over 40 who want to feel their physical best for years to come. We discuss the fun yet frustrating topic of belly fat in women over 40, including the physiological and hormonal changes that affect belly fat and common myths about it, plus...

Feb 23, 202449 minEp. 149

Quick Wits: How Aggressive to Bulk for Building Muscle (and Minimizing Fat)

Are you finally ready to spend some time building muscle? If so, the rate at which you gain weight to gain muscle can vary based on your starting point and your goals. From a lean gain to a "dreamer bulk," we break it down on today's Quick Wits. 🎁 To find out the EXACT rates of gain for each of these (and everything else you need to know for an optimal bulk)... 👉 Grab your FREE Muscle-Building Nutrition Blueprint guide (over 25 pages that detail exactly how to setup your nutrition for a succes...

Feb 22, 20247 min

Ep 148: Q&A - Full-Body vs. Split Routine, Faster Recovery, and Hybrid Training (Lifting + Cardio)

Which is better, full-body training or body part splits? How can you recover faster between workouts, especially when doing a lot of high-intensity cardio? How can you balance lifting and cardio for a hybrid training approach to get the most out of both? Philip ( @witsandweights ) is answering these three questions on today’s episode. Today, you’ll learn all about: 3:46 Should I do full-body or target areas daily for lifting or strength training? 10:11 Do you have any advice to improve recovery ...

Feb 20, 202439 minEp. 148

Quick Wits: Best Exercises for the Abs & Core (Lifting for Muscle Series)

If you're looking for six pack or eight pack abs, we've got you covered today, which is all about those core muscles. Philip ( @witsandweights ) reveals his top 4 exercises for sculpting your abs (sit-ups and planks are NOT on the list) 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...

Feb 19, 20246 min

Weekend Q&A: How do I Avoid Constant Fatigue from Low Energy Availability in My Training (A Mom Over 40)

How can you overcome feeling aimless and frustrated with recovery issues in your training, especially over 40 with a family? The question we're answering is: "I am a 46 year old mom and have been weight training since May 2022, focused on body recomp with at least one muscle building phase last spring. I have never done a fat loss phase. I have slowly but steadily put on muscle and lost body fat. I have loved weight training and getting stronger and I also have loved stepping away from restricti...

Feb 17, 202412 min

Ep 147: Transform Your Body at Home with This Brand New Way to Train

How did Josh York transform a simple idea at his parents’ dining room table into a global fitness phenomenon? What practical strategies can you learn from Josh about strength training, muscle building, and fitness optimization? Today, Philip ( @witsandweights ) talks with Josh York, the dynamic founder and CEO of GYMGUYZ, a mobile in-home fitness training provider with over 150 locations across 30 states and three countries. Discover the journey behind GYMGUYZ's rise to a global fitness brand an...

Feb 16, 202432 minEp. 147

Quick Wits: Best Exercises for the Glutes & Calves (Lifting for Muscle Series)

To round out the lower body, we are hitting the glutes and calf muscles today (something for everyone). "I like big butts and I cannot lie..." 🎶🤣 Philip ( @witsandweights ) reveals his top 4 exercises for building strength and definition to get a big butt and big calves 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 advi...

Feb 15, 20245 min

Ep 146: Where Does Fat REALLY Go When You Lose Weight? (The Answer Might Surprise You)

What really happens to fat when you lose weight? Where does the “stuff” go? How does it leave your fat cells and then your body? In today’s episode, Philip ( @witsandweights ) unravels the super-interesting, complex, and surprising journey of how your body burns fat during weight loss. From the moment you hit a calorie deficit to the result of a slimmer waistline, tune in as we decode the metabolic processes and bust common myths about fat loss. Today, you’ll learn all about: 04:57 Exploring how...

Feb 13, 202436 minEp. 146

Quick Wits: Why Selfish is Selfless with Your Health and Fitness

Have you ever felt guilty for focusing so much on your own fitness goals? Or could dedicating time to your fitness journey be the ultimate act of altruism? Today we'll dissect the seemingly selfish act of prioritizing personal health and reveal how it's actually a cornerstone of generosity. This episode shatters the guilt often associated with a rigorous health regimen and reframes your workouts and meal prep as acts of love—both for yourself and for the people in your life. By embracing fitness...

Feb 12, 20244 min
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