#130 - Powerlifting for real life — Whiskey and Barbells episode

This is a really common misunderstanding people have about powerlifting:They think it's all about "maxing out" and chasing medals.But the best powerlifters I know train to be better in life — not just for meets.In this in-person episode of Whiskey and Barbells, I sat down with my own coach, Kurtis Tallaire — a national-level powerlifter who's been in the game for over a decade, both as an athlete and a coach.Today, he trains athletes who are crushing international meets.Kurtis and I take a deeper, practical look at powerlifting principles — not just for competitors, but for the everyday lifter who wants strength that supports their life, their body, and their longevity.We get into:Why powerlifting is a mindset, not just a sportHow a strong squat looks different from a “textbook” squatThe right way (and wrong way) to use a weight beltStrength training vs. bodybuilding — and why they feel so differentProgressive overload and why it still worksHow to build strength without obsessing over your 1RMTraining principles that make workouts feel easier over timeThe importance of sleep and recovery for strength gainsSpecific cues for improving bench, squat, and deadliftCore strength tips to protect your backMy recent competition recap — what I’d do differentlyThis episode is great if you care about getting stronger for real life — whether you train for performance, health, or just to feel powerful in your body.Find more from Kurtis on Instagram:​​@kurtis.t