The Lifters League Podcast

The Powerlifting Paradox: Losing Weight while Gaining Strength

p>In this deep-dive episode, we explore the seemingly paradoxical challenge faced by many powerlifters - achieving significant weight loss while simultaneously increasing their strength. Our primary case study is Sarah, an elite lifter who successfully shed an impressive 20 kilos without sacrificing her performance.

We kick off the discussion by examining the shifting landscape of powerlifting, where dietary strategies are becoming increasingly paramount. We delve into various methods of weight cutting without compromising strength, focusing on the crucial role of diet, macronutrient distribution, meal timing, and strategic planning.

Through Sarah’s firsthand account, we uncover the intricate dynamics of managing energy and strength during periods of calorie deficiency. We also shed light on the significance of the rate of loss over time, and the importance of well-structured refeed periods, arguing that properly strategized dieting throughout training can yield optimal results.

In this enlightening episode, we debunk common misconceptions about dietary planning and reveal its inextricable ties to training programs. Discover how periodizing refeeds, especially in close proximity to competitions, can help maintain optimal weight without diminishing the effects of refeeding.

Moving beyond powerlifting, we also challenge and debunk common health myths that often raise undue concerns for athletes, such as fears of kidney damage due to high protein intake and creatine. We underscore the distinct health requirements of athletes and the importance of considering their broader health-promoting benefits before reacting to certain elevated levels.

We round off the discussion by differentiating between the clinical and athletic populations in terms of health management and compliance, emphasizing the need for a holistic and natural approach to healthcare. So join our enlightening discussion and learn how to optimize your dieting strategy for your powerlifting journey!

Why 775kg total for the strongest female in the world was possible.

Learn how Sarah and I got a 775kg, what we learnt and the strategies we used.

We cover:

✅ why we didn’t get 775kg at ProRaw
✅ how we revised strategy
✅ how we developed a possible new strategy
✅ mindset
✅ comp day nutrition strategies
✅ how to put 5 bagels in your diet

Sarah's Quest #1 in the World

Join us on a captivating Live Instagram Chat with the phenomenal Sarah Rainbow as she shares her journey to becoming the number one powerlifter in Australia and unveils her ambitious strategy to clinch the title of number one in the world at her upcoming competition.

In this exclusive session, we dive deep into: ✅ Sarah's beginnings in powerlifting—discover the spark that ignited her passion. 💪 The hurdles along the way—learn about the challenges she faced and how they sculpted her into the champion she is today. 🔴 Overcoming the odds—gain insights into Sarah's resilience and the strategies she employed to overcome obstacles. 🤔 The coach's perspective—get a behind-the-scenes look at the coaching philosophies and approaches that have supported Sarah's ascent to the top. 📈 Roadmap to the top—explore the meticulous strategies and preparations underway to secure the world number one spot. 🙋‍♂️ Interactive Q&A session—seize the opportunity to ask Sarah and her coaching team your burning questions and get personalized advice.

Don't miss out on this inspirational story of determination, strategy, and success. Whether you're a budding athlete, a seasoned competitor, or simply a fan of extraordinary achievements, this chat promises to motivate, educate, and inspire. Tune in, be inspired, and perhaps start your journey towards your own number one.

PED Harm Reduction Panel: Victoria Felkar, Scott McNally, Gus Cooke & Tim Piatkowski

PED Harm Reduction & Health Management with Victoria Felkar, Scott McNally, Gus Cooke & Tim Piatkowski.

In this riveting episode, we delve deep into the complex world of Performance-Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) with a panel of experts who bring a wealth of knowledge from academia, coaching, and the fitness industry. Our conversation spans the micro to the macro—exploring individual choices, societal influences, and the political landscape that impacts PED use and harm reduction.

Meet Our Esteemed Guests:

Victoria Felkar: An internationally renowned scholar and Lecturer at the University of British Columbia, Victoria specialises in the critical study of social ethics, hormonal manipulation, and performance-enhancing technologies. She also owns a successful independent consulting firm, advocating for education in the fitness industry.

Scott McNally: The creative force behind Think BIG Bodybuilding Media, Scott McNally brings a practical understanding of PEDs in the bodybuilding world. With over 1000 fitness-related podcasts under his belt, Scott is a seasoned coach who trains elite bodybuilders and educates the public on responsible PED use.

Tim Piatkowski: An academic in the higher education space, Tim focuses his research on harm reduction and applied psychology. Passionate about translating research into real-world impacts and policy change, he is currently working to reduce harm for those using PEDs and other illicit substances.

Gus Cooke (Host): A powerlifting coach with a strong scientific background, Gus Cooke is on the front lines, working with athletes in strength sports. In this episode, he shares his own ethical dilemmas and seeks to explore what the role of a coach should be in the context of PED use.

Key Topics Covered:

• Individual actions for PED harm reduction
• Societal and cultural influences on PED use
• Political factors shaping access to health services
• Mitigating risks associated with non-medical pharmaceutical steroid use
• The role of coaches and the fitness industry in promoting safe PED use

Join us for an enlightening discussion that aims to shed light on the often murky waters of PED use, offering actionable insights for athletes, coaches, and policymakers alike.

Innerwork with Coach Em Stemm & Ruby Cooke

Hosted by Ruby Cooke, Lifters League resident Nutritionist, today had Coach Emily Stemm onto the show to discuss the importance of inner-work. How our understanding of self can better the long-term outcome of both lifestyle and performance goals. 

We consume too much protein

We had guest speaker Hayley Forrest, who we have had on the show before on metabolic super-compensation. The main topic of the day is protein intake. Do we consume too much protein... the short answer is, yes. Plus plenty of other rants on food culture. 

Training & Nutrition While Traveling

This episode is about how you should approach training and nutrition whilst travelling. We share our adventures travelling around the world and talk about what we do. Lifters League is an online coaching service for anyone wanting to get stronger, build muscle and get leaner. We incorporated strength and conditioning and sports nutrition to create a more science based approach to attaining your goals. Visit our website www.liftersleague.com You can also follow me http://instagram.com/liftersleague/

Harm Reduction for Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs

In this episode is speak to Tim Piatkowski, a researcher in harm reduction for Image and Performance Enhancing Drugs. We discuss the social cultural influences and the pressure it puts on both men and women to enhance image and performance. We look at the current strategies in place to educate and reduce harm through peer-to-peer and support programs and we discuss how Tim's research will help bolster the resources into these programs. 

Lifters League is an online professional service for coaching people in strength training and coaching development for passionate strength coaches and personal trainers. You can message us on our website http://www.liftersleague.com.au/

You can also follow me http://instagram.com/guscooke_liftersleague/

 

Starting a coaching/pt business

Here is my personal experience with starting my coaching business and how I have help PTs and coaches make that start themselves into coaching. If you need help with business you should seek a business advisor or you can reach out to me and I can see how I can help you. Email me gus@liftersleague.com.au 

Finding The Why

Lifters League is an online professional service for coaching people in strength training and coaching development for passionate strength coaches and personal trainers. You can message us on our website http://www.liftersleague.com.au/ You can also follow me http://instagram.com/guscooke_liftersleague/