8 hr ago

Fitness Q&A: Why You Need to Learn Technical Terms, Deload Weeks, Shaking Lunges & Recovery

In this Q&A episode, Judd answers listener questions covering recovery, athletic performance, injury prevention, progression, and the practical side of building strength for life. Judd explains why scheduled deload weeks aren't necessary for everyone, how to recognize the signs of overtraining, and why understanding basic training principles helps you make better decisions than blindly following internet advice. He also shares simple ways to improve athleticism without overhauling your current workout routine and discusses how older lifters or those dealing with knee pain can continue building strength safely. The conversation also covers Judd's biggest lessons from years of training, including the warning signs that often appear before injuries happen, why patience leads to better long-term progress, and how small adjustments to your training can help you stay healthy for decades. Finally, Judd shares his thoughts on today's fitness industry: why the shift toward performance, longevity, and healthspan is a positive trend, and why many optimization hacks and influencer routines simply aren't realistic for people balancing careers, families, and everyday life. This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

36 min

2 days ago

Bert Sorin RETURNS to Explain the Art of High Performance | #107

Want in-person coaching with Judd? Apply now for an invite to one of his 3-Day Training Immersions held at his private gym in Austin, Texas: https://us21.list-manage.com/survey?u=83e092c07ea55de8a86df56ea&id=e5872f62d4&e=*%7CUNIQID%7C* Judd Lienhard sits down with Bert Sorin, CEO of Sorinex, to discuss what actually makes athletes better, why most coaches misunderstand strength training, and how elite performers think differently about training, recovery, and life. Bert Sorin has spent decades working alongside the world's best strength coaches, collegiate athletic programs, professional sports organizations, military units, and Olympic athletes. Together, Judd and Bert explore everything from Olympic lifting and power development to coaching philosophy, parenting, leadership, and why chasing "optimal" isn't always the answer. Judd and Bert explain why athletes often spend too much time trying to mimic sport inside the weight room instead of improving the physical qualities that actually transfer to competition. They discuss why chasing bigger numbers doesn't always make someone a better athlete and why coaching requires understanding when less is actually more. Follow Bert: https://www.instagram.com/bertsorin/ 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:45 Why Bert Sorin Became One of Strength Training's Biggest Influencers 00:03:27 Visiting Olympic Champion Valarie Allman 00:05:47 What Olympic Lifting Actually Measures 00:07:03 Summer Strong & Learning From Elite Performers 00:09:32 In-Season Strength Training for Olympic Athletes 00:11:02 Correlation vs. Causation in Sports Performance 00:13:20 Why Olympic Lifts Don't Build Athleticism 00:15:54 The Smarter Way to Program Power Cleans 00:17:23 The Biggest Olympic Lifting Technique Mistake 00:19:54 Why Rhythm Creates Better Athletes 00:22:23 Coaching Athletic Movement Through Rhythm 00:25:52 Touring Ways2Well & Recovery Technology 00:27:47 Military Intelligence, Hunting & Elite Performance 00:33:18 Learning From World-Class Specialists 00:36:44 The History of the Olympic Barbell 00:39:23 Why the Bench Press Became Popular 00:43:05 Why the Barbell Is Still King 00:45:43 Strength Training vs. Sport-Specific Training 00:47:31 The Real Goal of High-Performance Training 00:49:32 The Problem With Optimization Culture 00:52:04 Social Media, Authenticity & Validation 00:55:09 Raising Genuine, Confident Kids 00:57:23 Parenting Lessons They Learned Too Late 01:00:56 Fatherhood, Pressure & Emotional Intelligence 01:06:06 Why Every Parent Should Learn to Underreact 01:09:23 Training Kids Without Ruining Sports 01:12:16 Building Strong Young Athletes 01:16:01 Why Starting Sports Late Isn't Always Bad 01:19:08 The Case for Teen-Onset Athletic Development 01:22:16 What's Next for Sorinex 01:24:43 The Future of Strength Training Technology 01:25:49 Why Velocity Based Training Is the Future 01:28:15 Final Thoughts This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

1hr 33min

25 Jun

Q&A: Fitness vs. Athleticism & Top 3 Training Principles | #106

Want in-person coaching with Judd? Apply now for an invite to one of his 3-Day Training Immersions held at his private gym in Austin, Texas: https://us21.list-manage.com/survey?u=83e092c07ea55de8a86df56ea&id=e5872f62d4&e=*%7CUNIQID%7C* In this week's Q&A episode, Judd answers some of the most common questions from listeners about fitness, athleticism, strength training, longevity, and how training should evolve after 40. What separates someone who's simply "fit" from someone who's truly athletic? Are there really bad exercises? How much training volume do you actually need? And what changes should you make as you get older? Judd explains why athleticism isn't reserved for elite athletes, it's something every person needs to navigate everyday life with confidence, resilience, and strength. He also shares the three principles that should guide every training program: safety, consistency, and progression. In this episode: Why training is different from simply working out The biggest mistake people over 40 make Why there are no universally "bad" exercises The difference between fitness and athleticism How to train for longevity and resilience The three principles every training plan should follow Managing recovery, inflammation, and life stress Judd's philosophy behind the MASS Method This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

31 min

23 Jun

The Truth About Specificity: Why Your Training Doesn't Need to Look Like Your Sport | #105

This episode is sponsored by David Protein. David protein bars have the best protein/calorie ratio on the market and they taste delicious. Get free shipping on your first order at: www.davidprotein.com/judd Does training need to look exactly like your sport? In this episode, Judd Lienhard breaks down one of the most misunderstood concepts in fitness, athletic performance, and strength training: specificity. Learn why copying sport movements in the gym is often the wrong approach, how elite strength coaches actually think about performance development, and why improving physical capabilities matters more than making exercises look athletic. Want to work directly with Judd? Apply for coaching, training immersions, and other premium coaching opportunities with Judd. Apply here: https://us21.list-manage.com/survey?u=83e092c07ea55de8a86df56ea&id=418c4f27ca&e=*|UNIQID|* For years, athletes, coaches, and fitness enthusiasts have been told that the more an exercise resembles a sport skill, the more effective it is. Judd challenges that belief and explains why the purpose of training is not to imitate competition, but to improve the physical qualities that drive performance. Try Judd’s training program, MASS METHOD, free for a week. Build strength and move better. Start Now: https://my.playbookapp.io/judd-lienhard/programs/your-first-week/43816?utm_campaign=50k_challenge&utm_content=all_challenges&utm_medium=instagram&utm_source=playbook&sessionId=_fbp%3Dfb.1.1776551516651.783174122931141347%3B+createdAt%3D2026-04-30T20%3A57%3A02.131Z%3B+utmSource%3Dplaybook&creatorId=11715&productId=subscription Whether you're a competitive athlete, former athlete, weekend warrior, tactical athlete, or simply someone who wants to move better, stay stronger, and age with confidence, this episode provides practical insights that can immediately improve the way you approach training. This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

56 min

18 Jun

Fitness Q&A: Why People Train Backwards, Sprinting vs. Jogging, Injury Recovery & Creatine | #104

Want to work directly with Judd? Apply for coaching, training immersions, and other premium coaching opportunities with Judd. Apply here: https://us21.list-manage.com/survey?u=83e092c07ea55de8a86df56ea&id=418c4f27ca&e=*|UNIQID|* In this week's Q&A episode of The Judd Lienhard Podcast, Judd answers listener questions covering everything from sprinting versus jogging and injury recovery to creatine supplementation, shoulder pain, plantar fasciitis, Jefferson curls, and why most people structure their training completely backwards. Judd explains why exercises are simply tools—not goals—and why effective training starts with identifying the adaptation you're trying to create before selecting the exercises that support it. He also breaks down the difference between hard training and intense training, why many fitness programs fail to develop athletic qualities effectively, and how elite athletes organize their training to maximize strength, speed, power, and conditioning. Try Judd’s training program, MASS METHOD, free for a week. Build strength and move better. Start Now: https://my.playbookapp.io/judd-lienhard/programs/your-first-week/43816?utm_campaign=50k_challenge&utm_content=all_challenges&utm_medium=instagram&utm_source=playbook&sessionId=_fbp%3Dfb.1.1776551516651.783174122931141347%3B+createdAt%3D2026-04-30T20%3A57%3A02.131Z%3B+utmSource%3Dplaybook&creatorId=11715&productId=subscription Topics discussed include: • The real difference between sprinting and jogging • Why most adults stop training power and speed • Hard vs. intense training explained • How elite athletes structure training differently • Creatine and cognitive performance • The first steps after a muscle strain • Why rest and ice may not be the best recovery strategy • Managing shoulder pain during pressing movements • Variable resistance and accommodating resistance • Jefferson curls and spinal flexion training • Fitness equipment Judd wishes existed • Flywheel training and eccentric overload • Plantar fasciitis rehabilitation • How to return to running, sprinting, and jumping after injury • Judd's in-person coaching immersion experience • The Mass Method approach to training Whether your goal is to build muscle, improve conditioning, become more athletic, recover from injuries, or simply understand how effective training should be organized, this episode offers practical principles that can immediately improve the way you approach fitness. This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

42 min

16 Jun

The Truth About Steroids, TRT, Performance Enhancement & Nutrition with Jon Heck | #103

Jon Heck returns to The Judd Lienhard Podcast for an objective discussion about anabolic steroids, TRT, performance-enhancing drugs, nutrition, bodybuilding, athletic performance, and long-term health. This episode is sponsored by David Protein. David protein bars have the best protein/calorie ratio on the market and they taste delicious. Get free shipping on your first order at: www.davidprotein.com/judd In a fitness industry full of extremes, Judd and Jon take a balanced approach to one of the most controversial topics in strength training. Rather than glorifying or demonizing performance-enhancing drugs, they break down what anabolic steroids actually do, what they don't do, and why nutrition remains the biggest driver of physique transformation. Want to work directly with Judd? Apply for coaching, training immersions, and other premium coaching opportunities with Judd. Apply here: https://us21.list-manage.com/survey?u=83e092c07ea55de8a86df56ea&id=418c4f27ca&e=*|UNIQID|* The conversation explores the differences between natural and enhanced athletes, how steroids affect muscle growth and recovery, common side effects, TRT, growth hormone, insulin, peptides, tendon injuries, and the long-term realities of hormone use. Jon shares insights from years of coaching athletes and bodybuilders, while Judd provides perspective from his background in strength and performance coaching. Together, they unpack many of the myths surrounding steroids, including "roid rage," athletic performance enhancement, and the belief that drugs alone create elite physiques. Try Judd’s training program, MASS METHOD, free for a week. Build strength and move better. Start Now: https://my.playbookapp.io/judd-lienhard/programs/your-first-week/43816?utm_campaign=50k_challenge&utm_content=all_challenges&utm_medium=instagram&utm_source=playbook&sessionId=_fbp%3Dfb.1.1776551516651.783174122931141347%3B+createdAt%3D2026-04-30T20%3A57%3A02.131Z%3B+utmSource%3Dplaybook&creatorId=11715&productId=subscription This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

1hr 24min

9 Jun

Why Bro Splits Still Work (And Why Fitness Has Lost All Perspective) | #102

David protein bars have the best protein/calorie ratio on the market. Get free shipping on your first order by going to davidprotein.com/judd Bro splits have become the punching bag of the modern fitness industry. According to social media, if you're not doing full body workouts, functional fitness, CrossFit, athletic performance training, or some version of high-frequency programming, you're wasting your time. But is that actually true? In this solo episode, Judd defends one of the most criticized training methods in fitness: body part split training. While he still believes full body training is one of the best options for many people, he explains why bro splits continue to work, why they're often misunderstood, and why context matters more than internet fitness dogma. Judd breaks down the real-world advantages and disadvantages of different workout splits, including full body training, push-pull-legs, upper-lower splits, and traditional bodybuilding routines. He also discusses why the obsession with finding the "optimal" training program often causes people to miss the bigger picture. This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

35 min

2 Jun

Phil Daru on Elite Performance, Resilience Training & the Mindset of Champions | #101

Phil Daru joins Judd Lienhard for a deep conversation on elite performance, strength and conditioning, mental toughness, resilience, leadership, and the habits that create long-term success. David protein bars have the best protein/calorie ratio on the market. Get free shipping on your first order by going to davidprotein.com/judd As a former professional MMA fighter and three-time World MMA Awards Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Year, Phil has worked with UFC champions, elite athletes, executives, and high performers across multiple industries. In this episode, Phil and Judd discuss: The principles behind championship-level performance Why order and virtue matter in life and training Recovery, HRV, and fatigue management Building resilience through failure The importance of preparation Coaching psychology and communication Developing athletes and future leaders Parenting, purpose, and legacy Conditioning strategies for everyday people What separates great performers from everyone else Follow Phil: https://www.instagram.com/darustrong/ This episode is packed with actionable lessons for athletes, coaches, entrepreneurs, executives, parents, and anyone pursuing excellence. This episode is brought to you by David Protein David Protein has the highest protein-to-calorie ratio of any leading bar in the market. David Protein Gold label has: 28g of protein, 150 calories, and 0g of sugar. And equally as important, this bar tastes delicious. Each bar features an indulgent, doughy texture, studded with satisfying chunks and airy crisps. Other bars are hard to choke down, but I often eat 2 David Protein bars in a sitting, they are that good. Try them for yourself. Order here for free shipping on your first order: davidprotein.com/judd This episode is brought to you by LMNT Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥

1hr 32min

The Judd Lienhard Podcast

Fitness Q&A: Why You Need to Learn Technical Terms, Deload Weeks, Shaking Lunges & Recovery

Bert Sorin RETURNS to Explain the Art of High Performance | #107

Q&A: Fitness vs. Athleticism & Top 3 Training Principles | #106

The Truth About Specificity: Why Your Training Doesn't Need to Look Like Your Sport | #105

Fitness Q&A: Why People Train Backwards, Sprinting vs. Jogging, Injury Recovery & Creatine | #104

The Truth About Steroids, TRT, Performance Enhancement & Nutrition with Jon Heck | #103

Why Bro Splits Still Work (And Why Fitness Has Lost All Perspective) | #102

Phil Daru on Elite Performance, Resilience Training & the Mindset of Champions | #101

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The Judd Lienhard Podcast

Episodes

Fitness Q&A: Why You Need to Learn Technical Terms, Deload Weeks, Shaking Lunges & Recovery

Bert Sorin RETURNS to Explain the Art of High Performance | #107

Q&A: Fitness vs. Athleticism & Top 3 Training Principles | #106

The Truth About Specificity: Why Your Training Doesn't Need to Look Like Your Sport | #105

Fitness Q&A: Why People Train Backwards, Sprinting vs. Jogging, Injury Recovery & Creatine | #104

The Truth About Steroids, TRT, Performance Enhancement & Nutrition with Jon Heck | #103

Why Bro Splits Still Work (And Why Fitness Has Lost All Perspective) | #102

Phil Daru on Elite Performance, Resilience Training & the Mindset of Champions | #101

Trailer

About

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