GLP-1 Medications and Weight Loss: What to Know Before You Start

Written by Evelyn Calado, MKin, CSCS, RKin

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are everywhere right now. Your coworker might be on one. Your neighbour might be on one. There is a good chance someone in your gym is using one too.

The conversation around these medications is loud. Some of it is hype. Some of it is fear. A lot of it is missing important context.

This post is not here to convince you to use these medications, and it is not here to scare you away from them either. That decision belongs between you and your healthcare provider.

What I want to do is help you understand what the research says, especially as it relates to body composition, muscle loss, training, and long-term health.

As a kinesiologist, I believe movement, strength training, nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle habits are the foundation of long-term health. I also believe that mental health and psychological support are often left out of the weight loss conversation. For many people, body weight is connected to stress, trauma, emotional patterns, environment, and years of repeated dieting. No medication addresses all of that on its own.

That said, I am not here to judge anyone for using GLP-1 medications. If they are improving your health and quality of life, and you are using them under proper medical supervision, that is your decision to make.

But before starting, it is important to understand what these medications do, what they do not do, and what you need to do to protect your body while using them.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It is a hormone your gut naturally releases when you eat. It helps regulate blood sugar, signals fullness to the brain, and slows how quickly food leaves your stomach.

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking that hormone and extending the fullness signal. This can reduce appetite, lower food intake, and improve blood sugar regulation.

Some of the most well-known medications include semaglutide, sold under names like Ozempic and Wegovy, and tirzepatide, sold under names like Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Tirzepatide is slightly different because it targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This is one reason why weight loss outcomes with tirzepatide tend to be higher in clinical trials.

These medications were originally developed for type 2 diabetes management. Weight loss was initially seen as a side effect, but the effect was significant enough that some of these medications are now also approved for obesity management.

The Weight Loss Results Are Significant

The weight loss results with GLP-1 medications are real.

Lifestyle interventions alone often lead to modest weight loss, commonly in the range of 3 to 8 percent of total body weight depending on the level of support and intensity. Clinical trials with GLP-1 medications show much larger reductions.

Semaglutide has been shown to produce roughly 15 percent total body weight loss in some trials. Tirzepatide has shown even higher results, with some studies reporting average losses above 20 percent in people without type 2 diabetes.

These medications can also improve important health markers. Research has shown improvements in blood sugar control, blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, and cardiovascular risk markers, especially in people with obesity-related health conditions.

That matters.

For some people, these medications can be life-changing. They may improve mobility, reduce health risks, and create a sense of control after years of struggling with weight management.

But weight loss alone does not automatically mean better health. What you lose matters.

That brings us to the part that needs far more attention.

The Part That Matters for Training: Muscle Loss

This is the part I care about most as a kinesiologist.

GLP-1 medications can help people lose a significant amount of weight, but the weight lost is not just body fat. Some of it is lean mass, which includes muscle.

That matters because muscle is not just about looking strong. Muscle supports your metabolism, strength, balance, independence, injury resilience, and long-term health.

Body composition research has shown that a meaningful portion of weight lost on GLP-1 medications can come from lean mass. With semaglutide, some research has found that approximately 38 percent of the weight lost came from lean mass. With tirzepatide, the proportion appears lower, closer to 25 percent in some studies, but it is still significant.

This does not mean these medications are bad. It means the way you use them matters.

If someone loses a large amount of weight but also loses a significant amount of muscle, that is not an ideal outcome. The goal should not simply be a lower number on the scale. The goal should be improved body composition, better health, greater strength, and better long-term function.

This is why strength training is not optional if you are using a GLP-1 medication.

Resistance training helps preserve muscle during weight loss. It gives your body a reason to hold onto lean tissue while body weight is coming down. Without it, you are increasing the risk that more of your weight loss comes from muscle.

At a minimum, people using these medications should be strength training 2 to 3 days per week, with a full-body approach that includes major movement patterns like squatting, hinging, pushing, pulling, carrying, and single-leg work.

Cardiovascular training still matters too. These medications can reduce appetite and body weight, but they do not build cardiovascular fitness. Your heart, lungs, and muscles still need training.

The big takeaway is this:

GLP-1 medications may help with weight loss, but exercise determines a lot of what kind of weight you lose, how well you function, and how prepared you are to maintain your results long term.

What Happens If You Stop?

This is another part of the conversation that needs to be discussed before someone starts.

For many people, the weight loss achieved with GLP-1 medications is not fully maintained after stopping the medication.

Clinical trial data shows that weight regain is common after discontinuation. In the STEP 1 extension study, participants regained approximately two thirds of the weight they had lost within one year of stopping semaglutide (Wilding et al., 2022). In the STEP 4 trial, people who stopped semaglutide regained weight, while those who continued treatment lost more weight (Rubino et al., 2021). Similar findings have been reported with tirzepatide, where stopping treatment led to significant regain compared with continued use (Aronne et al., 2024).

This does not mean these medications do not work. It means they appear to work more like long-term treatment for a chronic condition, rather than a short-term fix.

That is an important distinction.

Many people start these medications thinking they will use them temporarily, lose the weight, and then stop. But if stopping leads to significant weight regain, then the long-term plan needs to be part of the conversation from the beginning.

Before starting, it is worth asking:

• Can I afford this long term?

• Am I prepared to stay on it if that is what is needed?

• What happens if side effects become difficult?

• What happens if my coverage changes?

• What habits am I building while I am on it?

• Am I strength training and eating enough protein to protect my muscle?

These are not small questions. They are central to making an informed decision.

Side Effects, Safety, and Medical Supervision

The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal. Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and indigestion are all commonly reported, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose.

For some people, these symptoms improve over time. For others, they are significant enough to stop treatment.

There are also less common but more serious risks that need medical oversight, including pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, changes in heart rate, and specific considerations for people with diabetes-related eye disease. These risks do not mean everyone should avoid these medications, but they do mean medical supervision matters.

This is also why the rise in black market and unregulated versions of these medications is concerning.

Because of cost, access issues, and high demand, some people are obtaining compounded, counterfeit, or research versions of these drugs online or outside proper medical channels. That comes with real risk. You may not know the dose, purity, concentration, or safety of what you are taking. You also lose the medical monitoring that should come with these medications.

If you are going to use a GLP-1 medication, use it under the care of a qualified healthcare provider who knows your health history.

What You Should Do If You Are Taking a GLP-1 Medication

If you are currently taking one of these medications, or you are thinking about starting, here are the main things I would want you to prioritize.

First, strength train consistently. Aim for 2 to 3 full-body sessions per week. This is one of the most important things you can do to help preserve muscle while losing weight.

Second, eat enough protein. Appetite suppression can make it harder to eat enough total food, but protein matters for muscle retention, recovery, and long-term health.

Third, do not ignore cardiovascular fitness. Walking, cycling, incline treadmill work, rowing, and other forms of aerobic exercise still matter. These medications do not replace the benefits of conditioning.

Fourth, pay attention to how you feel. Low energy, dizziness, poor recovery, rapid strength loss, and extreme food restriction are not signs that things are going well. They are signs that your plan may need adjusting.

Finally, think beyond the scale. Weight loss can be valuable, but strength, energy, mobility, confidence, and long-term function matter too.

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 medications are powerful tools. The weight loss results are real, and the health benefits can be meaningful, especially for people with obesity-related health conditions.

But they are not a replacement for lifestyle.

They do not build muscle. They do not improve your strength. They do not train your cardiovascular system. They do not address every behavioural, emotional, or environmental factor that may have contributed to weight gain in the first place.

They can be part of the solution, but they should not be the whole solution.

If you are using a GLP-1 medication, strength training should be a priority. So should protein, movement, sleep, and a realistic long-term plan.

The goal is not just to lose weight.

The goal is to lose weight in a way that protects your muscle, supports your health, and helps you function better for years to come.

This post is intended for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing, or stopping any medication.

References

Aronne, L. J., et al. (2024). Continued treatment with tirzepatide for maintenance of weight reduction in adults with obesity: The SURMOUNT-4 randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 331(1), 38-48.

Kolli, R. T., Aoutla, S., Jyothi, N., et al. (2025). Rebound or retention: A meta-analysis of weight regain after the discontinuation of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and other anti-obesity drugs. Cureus, 17(10), e94926.

Moiz, A., Filion, K. B., Knäuper, B., et al. (2026). Weight maintenance after discontinuation of GLP-1 therapies. eClinicalMedicine, 96, 103992.

Rubino, D., et al. (2021). Effect of continued weekly subcutaneous semaglutide vs placebo on weight loss maintenance in adults with overweight or obesity: The STEP 4 randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 325(14), 1414-1425.

Wilding, J. P. H., et al. (2022). Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: The STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(8), 1553-1564.

Diabetes Care. (2025). Standards of care in diabetes. Diabetes Care, 49(Suppl. 1), S89-S131.

Endocrine Practice. (2025). Clinical practice guidance related to obesity and incretin-based therapies. Endocrine Practice, 31(11), 1351-1394.

Metabolism. (2025). Lean mass changes during GLP-1 based therapy. Metabolism, 164, 156113.

Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. (2025). Tirzepatide trial data and cardiometabolic outcomes. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 27(10), 5386-5392.

BMJ. (2025). Warning regarding unregulated GLP-1 products. BMJ, 390, r1917.

Health Canada. (2026). Public advisory on unauthorized GLP-1 products.

Therapeutic Goods Administration. (2026). Safety alert regarding counterfeit GLP-1 products.

Osteopenia and Strength Training for Women: What Happens Before Menopause

Written by Evelyn Calado, MKin, CSCS, RKin

There is a persistent misconception that bone loss is something that “just happens” after menopause. By the time many women start thinking seriously about bone density, the process of loss is already well underway.

Osteopenia and strength training are directly linked, yet most women are not told how early bone loss actually begins.

Bone health is not a passive outcome of aging. It is an active, dynamic process shaped by hormones, mechanical loading, and energy availability across the entire female lifespan.

Understanding osteopenia requires understanding one central principle: bone is living tissue, constantly undergoing remodeling through the opposing actions of osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

Bone Remodeling: The Balance Between Formation and Breakdown

At any given moment, your skeleton is not static. It is metabolically active.

• Osteoblasts are responsible for bone formation

• Osteoclasts are responsible for bone resorption

In a healthy system, these processes are tightly coupled. Bone that is broken down is replaced with new, strong bone. The integrity of your skeleton depends on the balance between these two forces.

Estrogen plays a critical regulatory role in maintaining this equilibrium.

Estrogen as a Regulator of Bone Turnover

Estrogen is not just a reproductive hormone. It is deeply involved in musculoskeletal health.

It functions, in part, by:

• Inhibiting excessive osteoclast activity

• Supporting osteoblast survival and activity

When estrogen levels are stable, bone turnover remains balanced. But when estrogen becomes low or erratic, this regulatory system begins to fail.

Estrogen does not “leach calcium from bone.” Its decline removes inhibitory control over osteoclasts, allowing bone resorption to outpace formation.

The result is a gradual reduction in bone mineral density, what we clinically recognize as osteopenia, and eventually osteoporosis if left unchecked.

Perimenopause: The Underappreciated Inflection Point

Much of the conversation around bone health focuses on postmenopause. However, perimenopause is a critical and often overlooked phase.

This is not simply a state of low estrogen. It is a state of hormonal volatility.

During perimenopause:

• Estrogen levels fluctuate unpredictably

• Progesterone exposure becomes inconsistent

• The coordination of tissue remodeling processes becomes impaired

These fluctuations influence:

• Bone turnover

• Muscle protein synthesis

• Recovery capacity

The net effect is a physiological environment that becomes increasingly catabolic, meaning tissue breakdown can begin to exceed tissue formation.

This is why bone density decline can begin before menopause is complete.

The Muscle–Bone Unit: Why Strength Matters

Bone does not exist in isolation. It is functionally linked to muscle through what is often referred to as the muscle–bone unit.

When muscle contracts, it exerts mechanical force on bone. This mechanical strain is the primary stimulus for bone adaptation.

Without sufficient loading, the body interprets bone as metabolically expensive and unnecessary, and osteoclastic activity increases accordingly.

Strength training directly targets this system.

Through high-load resistance exercise:

• Muscle force increases

• Mechanical strain on bone increases

• Osteoblast activity is stimulated

• Bone mineral density is preserved or improved

This is not a marginal effect. It is one of the most powerful non-pharmacological interventions available for maintaining skeletal integrity.

If you are unsure where to start, this is exactly where an individualized approach matters. [Start with an Initial Assessment]

Why Endurance Alone Is Not Enough

Many active women assume that being “fit” is sufficient to protect bone health. However, endurance training does not provide the same osteogenic stimulus as resistance training.

In fact, without adequate nutrition and strength work, high volumes of endurance exercise can:

• Increase cortisol and systemic stress

• Contribute to low energy availability

• Impair bone formation

Bone health requires specific, targeted mechanical loading, not just general activity.

Why Strength Training Is Essential for Women’s Bone Health

Dr. Stacy Sims is explicit. Strength training is not optional for women. It is a lifelong requirement.

General recommendations include:

• At least 2 to 3 strength sessions per week

• Emphasis on heavy resistance, not just light weights

• Inclusion of compound lifts and power-based movements

This becomes even more critical during perimenopause and beyond, when:

• Muscle mass becomes harder to maintain

• Hormonal support for tissue repair declines

• The risk of accelerated bone loss increases

Strength training is not simply about preserving aesthetics or performance. It is about maintaining structural integrity.

For most people, this requires structure, progression, and accountability. [Explore Personal Training Options]

The Compounding Effect of Muscle Loss

Muscle loss and bone loss are interconnected.

As muscle mass declines:

• Mechanical loading on bone decreases

• Bone formation signals weaken

• Risk of fragility increases

Hormonal environments during this phase can also increase muscle protein breakdown, making it harder to maintain lean mass without intentional intervention.

This creates a feedback loop:

Less muscle leads to less bone stimulus, which leads to weaker bone and higher injury risk.

Strength training interrupts this cycle.

Bone Health Is Built, Not Preserved

One of the most important reframes is this:

You are not trying to hold on to bone. You are trying to continually build and reinforce it.

Bone is responsive tissue. It adapts to the signals it receives.

• If the signal is inactivity, bone loss occurs

• If the signal is chronic stress without adequate fuel, bone loss occurs

• If the signal is heavy loading with adequate nutrition, bone strength improves

Perimenopause does not mark the end of this adaptability. It simply raises the stakes.

Final Thoughts

Osteopenia is not an inevitable consequence of aging. It is, in large part, the result of mismatched physiology, where hormonal changes are not met with appropriate mechanical and nutritional support.

Estrogen may set the stage, but behavior determines the outcome.

Strength training, done consistently and with sufficient intensity, provides the necessary stimulus to:

• Maintain bone mineral density

• Preserve lean muscle mass

• Counteract the catabolic shifts of hormonal fluctuation

For women entering perimenopause, this is not optional. It is essential.

And the earlier this foundation is built, the more resilient the system becomes over time.

This is why most of the women we work with are already incorporating structured resistance training before these changes begin. [Learn More About Hybrid Coaching]

Source

Dr. Stacy Sims, ROAR

Stop Balancing on a BOSU Ball: What the Research Actually Says About Unstable Surface Training

Written by Evelyn Calado, MKin, CSCS, RKin

Let’s get one thing straight: balancing on a BOSU ball is not a badge of athleticism. Yet, I constantly see people in the gym doing squats or biceps curls on unstable surfaces thinking they're improving ankle strength, core function, or stability.

It’s a well-intentioned but misguided strategy. So, what does the research actually say about unstable surface training?

What Is Unstable Surface Training (UST) Really Training?

Unstable surface training—using tools like BOSU balls, wobble boards, or foam pads—adds instability to exercises, forcing the body to work harder to stay balanced. This does a few things:

• Increases neuromuscular coordination demands

• Engages the vestibular system and visual feedback

• Activates postural muscles through reflexive adjustments

• Requires greater core and small muscle engagement

Sounds like a win, right?

Not so fast.

The Ankle Stability Myth

Ankle sprains make up about one-third of all sports injuries, and the recurrence rate is shockingly high—up to 70%. A lot of this is due to poor proprioception—the body’s ability to sense joint position and movement.

So people assume that training on unstable surfaces improves proprioception and ankle stability.

But here's the problem: it doesn’t.

One study looked directly at proprioceptive training and found that exercises performed on unstable surfaces did not effectively improve proprioception or joint position sense. In other words, wobbling doesn’t equal proprioceptive adaptation (Wright & Arnold, 2012).

Strength Loss on Unstable Surfaces

Not only are you not improving ankle function—you might be compromising your strength, too.

A 2021 study found that grip strength and overall power output were significantly reduced when resistance exercises were performed on unstable surfaces (Zemková et al., 2021). That’s because your body’s focused on not falling over rather than producing force.

Another systematic review echoed this, concluding that unstable surface strength training has limited transfer to strength and power in stable, real-world conditions (Behm et al., 2015).

Translation: You’re getting worse at lifting and still not preventing that ankle sprain.

So What Should You Do for Ankle Stability?

There’s solid evidence that certain proprioceptive and strength training strategies actually reduce ankle sprain recurrence:

Controlled Strength Training

• Calf raises (bent and straight knee)

• Tibialis raises, toe walks

• Split stance and single-leg exercises with tempo

Sensory-Motor Work

• Eyes-closed balance drills on a firm surface

• Controlled single-leg deceleration (hop and stick)

• Multidirectional landing mechanics

Reactive & Perturbation Training

• External taps or light band perturbations while holding position

• Partner drills mimicking sport-specific movement

These strategies are rooted in actual performance and rehabilitation research (Schiftan et al., 2015), and more importantly—they help you move better, get stronger, and build confidence after injury.

Final Thoughts

Unstable surface training isn’t evil—it has its time and place, especially in rehab or return-to-play. But for most people chasing strength, resilience, or better ankle stability, it’s a poor substitute for well-designed, progressive training.

So unless your goal is to join Cirque du Soleil, maybe leave the BOSU ball alone.

Train smart. Get strong. Train. Play. Repeat.

References

Behm, D. G., Muehlbauer, T., Kibele, A., & Granacher, U. (2015). Effects of strength training using unstable surfaces on strength, power and balance performance across the lifespan: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine, 45(12), 1645–1669. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-015-0384-x

Behm, D. G., & Colado, J. C. (2012). Instability resistance training for health and performance. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 34(3), 33–48. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0b013e31824f2552

Schiftan, G. S., Ross, L. A., & Hahne, A. J. (2015). Proprioceptive training for the prevention of ankle sprains: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 18(3), 238–244. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2014.04.007

Wright, C. J., & Arnold, B. L. (2012). Fatigue and muscular performance during dynamic activities: A comparison of stable and unstable conditions. Journal of Athletic Training, 47(4), 407–416. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-47.4.16

Zemková, E., Jeleň, M., Čepková, A., & Uvaček, M. (2021). There is no cross effect of unstable resistance training on power produced during stable conditions. Applied Sciences, 11(8), 3401. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11083401

Why Strength Training Is Essential for Women in Their 30s

If you’re a woman in your 30s, you’ve likely started to hear the term “muscle loss” more often—and for a good reason. Beginning in your 30s, women can lose about 3-5% of muscle mass per decade if they’re not engaging in strength training. This decline, known as sarcopenia, doesn’t just affect your ability to stay active but also impacts your metabolism, bone density, and overall quality of life. So let’s talk about why lifting weights and building muscle is one of the best things you can do for your body and your long-term health.

What Does It Mean to Build Muscle?

Building muscle isn’t about looking bulky—it’s about preserving and enhancing your lean body mass. Muscle is metabolically active tissue, meaning it burns calories even when you’re at rest. The more muscle you have, the more energy your body uses throughout the day, which can make it easier to manage body fat levels. Additionally, having more muscle mass supports joint health, improves posture, and helps you maintain independence as you age.

Why Muscle Loss Matters

Starting in your 30s, your body naturally begins losing muscle mass unless you actively work to maintain or build it. This decline can:

• Lower your metabolism: Less muscle mass means fewer calories burned at rest.

• Increase fat storage: Without strength training, your body composition can shift toward higher fat percentages, even if your overall weight doesn’t change.

• Impact daily function: Everyday tasks like carrying groceries or playing with kids can become harder.

• Weaken bones: Muscle-strengthening exercises stimulate bone growth, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

The Science Behind Strength Training

Research consistently shows that strength training is one of the most effective ways to combat muscle loss. Unlike cardio, which primarily burns calories during the activity, strength training creates a lasting metabolic boost through a process called excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). This means your body continues to burn calories as it repairs and rebuilds muscle tissue after your session.

The Misconceptions About “Toning”

Many women express a desire to “get toned,” but what does that really mean? “Toning” is simply a combination of building muscle and reducing body fat to reveal that muscle. To achieve this, you need to lift weights with enough intensity to stimulate muscle growth and follow a consistent, progressive program. Activities like switching up workouts every week or focusing solely on cardio won’t build the muscle needed for that “toned” look.

Benefits of Building Muscle for Women in Their 30s

1. Improved Metabolism: More muscle mass means your body burns more calories throughout the day.

2. Fat Loss: Muscle tissue uses energy, helping you burn fat more efficiently.

3. Bone Health: Weight-bearing exercises strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

4. Hormonal Balance: Strength training can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate other hormones tied to stress and metabolism.

5. Mental Health: Lifting weights has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and boost confidence.

6. Longevity: Strength training supports better balance and mobility, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as you age.

Common Mistakes That Sabotage Progress

• Going Through the Motions: Lifting without intention or intensity won’t challenge your muscles enough to grow.

• Chasing the Burn: Prioritize progressive overload (gradually increasing weights, reps, or sets) over just “feeling the burn.”

• Skipping Rest Periods: Adequate rest between sets allows you to lift heavier, which promotes muscle growth.

• Not Tracking Progress: Without tracking, it’s hard to measure improvement or identify areas to adjust.

• Inconsistent Programming: Random workouts won’t deliver the same results as a structured plan.

How to Build Muscle Effectively

1. Lift Heavy: Don’t be afraid of heavier weights. Training close to failure (when you can’t do another rep with good form) is key.

2. Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the challenge by adding weight, reps, or sets over time.

3. Consistency: Stick with a program for several weeks to master exercises and track improvements.

4. Nutrition Matters: Fuel your body with enough protein and carbs to perform well and recover effectively. Aim for about 0.7-1.0 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily.

5. Rest and Recovery: Sleep is essential for muscle repair and growth. Aim for 7-9 hours per night.

A Plan for Your 30s and Beyond

By incorporating strength training into your routine, you’re not just building muscle—you’re investing in your future health. Focus on compound movements like squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows that target multiple muscle groups. Combine these with accessory exercises to address specific areas, and don’t forget to celebrate your progress along the way.

If you’re unsure where to start, consider working with a coach to create a tailored program. At Avos Strength, we specialize in helping women build strength and confidence with evidence-based training plans that fit your lifestyle. Let’s take the guesswork out of your training and help you build a stronger, healthier you.

Ready to lift? Let’s get started!

Why Your Workouts Aren't Working: The Case for Progressive Overload

Progressive overload is a fundamental principle in strength training and fitness that involves gradually increasing the demands placed on your muscles to stimulate growth and adaptation. Without this essential concept, many individuals find themselves stuck in a plateau, performing the same exercises with the same volume and load, and wondering why they’re not seeing results. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of progressive overload, the ideal length of a training block, the concept of rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and why you need to push yourself to make progress.

What is Progressive Overload?

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Progressive overload refers to the gradual increase of stress placed upon the body during exercise training. This can be achieved by:

- Increasing the weight lifted

- Increasing the number of repetitions or sets

- Reducing rest periods between sets

- Enhancing the complexity or difficulty of exercises

By continually challenging your muscles and body systems, you encourage them to adapt and grow stronger.

Why Repeating the Same Exercises Isn’t Effective

Performing the same exercises with the same volume and load over extended periods does not provide the necessary stimulus for muscle growth and strength gains. Here’s why:

- Lack of Stimulus: Muscles adapt to the workload you give them. Without increasing the challenge, muscles have no reason to grow or get stronger.

- Plateau: Repeating the same routine leads to a plateau where progress stalls because the body is no longer challenged.

- Boredom and Motivation: Sticking to the same routine can lead to boredom, decreasing motivation and adherence to your training program.

Ideal Length of a Training Block

A training block typically lasts between 4 to 8 weeks. This timeframe allows sufficient time for adaptation to occur without causing overtraining or staleness. After a training block, a deloading phase or a change in the training program can help reset the body and mind, preparing you for the next cycle of progressive overload.

Understanding Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE)

RPE is a scale that measures the intensity of your exercise based on how hard you feel you are working. The scale typically ranges from 1 to 10, with 1 being very light activity and 10 being maximum effort. Here’s how to use it effectively:

- 6-7 RPE: Moderate effort, sustainable for longer periods.

- 8-9 RPE: Hard effort, challenging but doable for shorter periods.

- 10 RPE: Maximum effort, only sustainable for brief bursts.

For optimal progress, you should generally aim to train in the 7-9 RPE range. This ensures that you are pushing your limits enough to stimulate growth and adaptation without overreaching and risking injury.

A Common Question: "Can't I Just Do More Reps?"

A common question we get from clients is, "Well, can't I just do more reps?" The issue is that often these clients are using very light weights (5-20 lbs) and doing 20+ reps. Sure, you can do that IF you are working within the correct RPE – it needs to be challenging enough. The other point is that you are likely just wasting time and going through the motions, which is why we recommend using higher loads.

Strength Endurance vs. Max Strength

Understanding the difference between strength endurance and max strength is crucial for setting the right goals and expectations:

- Strength Endurance: This refers to the ability to perform many repetitions of an exercise without fatiguing. Training for endurance typically involves higher reps (15-20+ reps) with lighter weights. This is beneficial for activities that require prolonged muscle activity but is less effective for building significant muscle mass or max strength.

- Max Strength: This is the maximum amount of force that a muscle can generate in a single effort. Training for max strength involves lower reps (1-5 reps) with very heavy weights. This type of training is highly effective for increasing muscle strength and size.

Ideal Rep Range and Intensity for Building Muscle Mass

For building muscle mass (hypertrophy) and increasing strength, the ideal rep range is typically 6-12 reps per set with a weight that is challenging enough to bring you close to failure by the end of each set (RPE 7-9). This rep range strikes a balance between lifting heavy enough weights to stimulate muscle growth and performing enough repetitions to maximize muscle fiber engagement.

Benefits of Progressive Overload

1. Increased Muscle Strength: By progressively increasing the weight or resistance, muscles grow stronger to handle the new demands.

2. Enhanced Muscle Hypertrophy: Progressive overload stimulates muscle growth by causing microtears in muscle fibers, which then repair and grow back stronger and larger.

3. Improved Endurance: Gradually increasing the volume of exercise improves cardiovascular and muscular endurance.

4. Greater Motivation and Adherence: Seeing progress and overcoming new challenges can boost motivation and commitment to your fitness journey.

5. Reduced Risk of Injury: Properly implemented progressive overload helps build resilient muscles and joints, reducing the likelihood of injury.

Conclusion

Sticking to the same exercises with the same load and volume will not bring the results you’re aiming for. Progressive overload is crucial for continued growth, strength, and overall fitness improvement. By understanding and implementing progressive overload, setting appropriate training blocks, and monitoring your RPE, you can break through plateaus and achieve your fitness goals. Challenge yourself, embrace the process, and watch your body transform.

Remember, the key to making progress is consistent, incremental challenges that push your limits and encourage your body to adapt. If you’re unsure how to incorporate progressive overload into your routine, consider consulting a qualified coach who can create a customized program tailored to your needs and goals.

Uncovering the Hidden Cause of Scapular Winging: A Comprehensive Approach

Have you ever noticed your shoulder blade sticking out awkwardly? This is called scapular winging. You might have been told that it’s due to a problem with your serratus anterior and that reaching or punching exercises are the key to fixing it.

However, there’s more to the story. Most advice on scapular winging overlooks a critical element that can make all the difference.

The Overlooked Role of the Scapulothoracic Joint

While much attention is given to the muscles surrounding the scapula, the ribcage, which acts as their stage, is often ignored. The scapula is concave, needing a convex surface to move smoothly. This surface is provided by the ribcage.

But what happens when there are restrictions in the ribcage? The ribcage might position itself forward in relation to the scapula, creating the appearance of scapular winging. This isn’t a problem with the scapula itself; rather, the shoulder blade lacks a stable platform to move upon.

The Rotator Cuff’s Dual Function

Commonly, the rotator cuff is thought to solely influence the shoulder joint. Yet, these muscles also play a significant role in moving the scapula. The posterior rotator cuff muscles, specifically the infraspinatus and teres minor, facilitate internal rotation of the scapula. This movement can make the inner border of the scapula lift away from the ribcage, mimicking scapular winging.

When there is insufficient space between the scapula and the thorax, these muscles are forced to multitask, acting on both the humerus and the scapula.

Understanding Ribcage Expansion

The relationship between the thorax and scapula is well-documented. Poor posture, which often limits ribcage expansion, can greatly reduce shoulder mobility. When the ribcage doesn't expand adequately, it restricts scapular movement and places additional stress on the humerus. Therefore, enhancing ribcage expansion is crucial to improving overall shoulder function including scapular winging.

Step by Step Process to Help Improve Ribcage Expansion

To effectively address scapular winging, we must enhance ribcage dynamics through a specific sequence of exercises:

1. Increase Front-to-Back Thoracic Shape (Anterior and Posterior Expansion)

2. Fill the Gap Between the Ribs and Shoulder Blade (Upper Back Expansion)

3. Retrain Scapular Gliding (Chest Expansion and Glenohumeral Mechanics)

Step 1: Front-to-Back Expansion

Enhancing the front-to-back dimension of the ribcage can be achieved through a side-lying position with a foam roller:

Setup: Position a foam roller at the middle third of your ribcage, approximately at chest height. Use a pillow for comfort if necessary to support your head.

Position: Lie on your side with your knees stacked.

Action: Roll forward and slightly sidebend over the foam roller, you can reach forward as shown in the video or reach your top arm toward the ceiling while looking at your hand. You can even hold a dumbbell or kettlebell in an arm bar position while on the roller.

Breathing: Inhale silently through your nose. On the exhale, relax into the foam roller.

Reps: Perform 2-3 sets of five breaths, twice daily for 2-4 weeks

Step 2: Upper Back Expansion

Next, we aim to create space between the ribs and the shoulder blade by driving upper-back expansion: (Rolling drills are great for achieving this)

Setup: Set up depends on the variation, for the first variation, sit on the floor with both feet in front of you.

Position: Hold onto your legs by grabbing behind your knees, keeping your eyes forward.

Action: Inhale and roll backward, then exhale and roll forward, keep a nice rhythmic tempo.

Reps: Do 3 sets of 8-12 rolls (per side), a few times daily for 2-4 weeks.

Step 3: Chest Expansion

To facilitate proper scapular movement, we need to expand the front of the chest. The "pump handle" action of the ribcage can be stimulated using a downward dog position:

Setup: Begin on your hands and knees with hands below shoulders and knees below hips.

Contact Points: Focus on the pisiform (small wrist bone) and the base of the index finger.

Action: Exhale and lift your hips upward while keeping weight on your hand points and looking toward your feet.

Breathing: Inhale silently through your nose. On the exhale, press more heavily through the hand points.

Note: unlike the video you can also pause and breathe in the top position.

Reps: Perform 2-3 sets of five breaths breathing in the hips up position, then do 6-12 reps of the bear to down dog. Perform twice daily for 2-4 weeks.

Conclusion

Scapular winging is not solely a scapular issue. It's a complex interaction between the scapula and the ribcage. Addressing ribcage expansion can provide a stable base for the scapula to glide efficiently, reducing undue stress on the rotator cuff muscles.

By focusing on improving the dynamics of your ribcage, you can create a better environment for your shoulder blade, leading to enhanced mobility and reduced discomfort. Remember, a well-supported scapula is key to healthy shoulder function.