How to Train Like a Pro (Even with a Full-Time Job, Kids, and Injuries)

Welcome to Past Your Prime – the podcast for active adults balancing training, rehab, family, and real life.In each episode, hosts Craig Smith (@craigsmithPT) and Alex Keicher (@spikerkeicher) dive into real-world strategies for overcoming injuries, staying strong, and living pain-free — even when life gets chaotic.💡 Learn more, access resources, and join our community: 👉 pastyourprime.comFollow us on Instagram: 📲 Alex – @spikerkeicher 📲 Craig – @craigsmithPT🔑 What We Cover TodayThis episode is a deep dive into how to stay consistent with training when life is trying to crush your soul. Craig and Alex break down real-world strategies to keep moving forward — even if you’ve got a full-time job, two kids, chronic injuries, and limited time.Highlights:How Alex structures his daily schedule to prioritize late-night trainingWhy morning workouts suck (for him) — and how to find the best time for youManaging injuries without losing momentum (rehab standard vs. performance standard)Building a simple, sustainable nutrition routine with Costco staples, teriyaki meats, and white riceSupplement stack breakdown (collagen, creatine, magnesium, multivitamins, electrolytes)Why intensity matters — and how to match it with smart recoveryThe “stretchy pants” trick that gets Alex out of bed and into the gymUsing sport vs. lifting for motivation — and planning around in-season vs. off-seasonThe mental health benefits of consistent training, even when sleep sucksWhat Craig calls the 5 Barriers to Staying Active🧠 Craig’s 5 Barriers to Staying Consistent with TrainingAccountability – Do you show up when you say you will?Comfort Level – Do you feel safe and confident where you train?Coaching Need – Are you stuck because you don’t know how to train correctly?Rehab Standard – Is an injury limiting what your body can actually handle?Physical Barriers – Do time, location, or life logistics get in the way?🧩 Key TakeawaysAlex breaks down how he overcame all five — even if he didn’t realize it at the time.Simple wins – Alex eats the same meals Monday–Thursday, saving energy and staying consistent.Stack skills slowly – Don’t try to fix everything at once. Build habits over time.Marry the gym and your life – Training has to fit, or it won’t last.Stretchy pants are for fun – Nacho Libre knows what’s up.💬 Join the ConversationStruggling with one of the five barriers? Drop us a comment or DM — we might cover your situation in a future episode.📲 Subscribe & Share✅ Like the episode ✅ Subscribe (it’s free and helps a ton) ✅ Share this with someone who’s busy, injured, or feels “past their prime”