Fit to Transform Podcast with Coach Nikias

In the first instalment of the Fat Loss Files mini series, I cover five common fat loss mistakes about setting weight goals, taking diet breaks, and using the scale to track progress.Links and resources:Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this solo episode, I reflect on nearly 30 years of fitness and on the two biggest mindset shifts that took me from hating exercise and constantly over-eating to finding training and healthy eating easier than ever.If you’re struggling to build consistency for the long haul, this episode will give you food for thought.Links and resources:Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This solo episode is all about plateaus:What they areWhen you might think you’re plateaued, but aren’t reallyThe nine most common reasons for training plateaus and their potential solutionsLinks and resources:Blog article: “What You Need to Know About Deloads” – https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/blog/deloads Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

If you’re tracking calories but your fat loss has plateaued, you may be thinking about lowering your calories.Which is actually the last change I make to a client’s plan when they seem stuck.Often, you don’t need fewer calories; you need to track them better.So this solo episode is about the most common calorie-tracking mistakes I’ve seen that could be holding you back from seeing the results you’re working so hard for.Links and resources:“Stop Guessing Your Maintenance Calories” video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUV6Xjxj_PA Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Dr. Christle Guevarra is a family medicine doctor who runs a telemedicine private practice.She’s back on the show to discuss the ins and outs of life on a GLP-1 medication:What to expect when you startTraining and nutrition suggestions to lose fat without losing muscleTips to avoid or reduce unpleasant side effects… And more!Links and resources:Connect with Dr. Christle on Instagram @dr.christle: https://www.instagram.com/dr.christle/ Check out her website: https://drchristle.com/ Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this solo episode, I discussed my personal approach to my latest business trip – how I navigated training, steps, and nutrition to stay on top of my bodybuilding goals.The purpose of this slice-of-life episode is to give you inspiration on how to nail your own fitness goals on your future business and leisure trips.Links and resources:Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Dr. James Steele is the current Head of Research at MacroFactor and Adjunct Industry Associate Professor at RMIT University in Australia.In this interview, we discuss the results of one of his most recent studies, exploring the relationship between low- and high-volume training and hypertrophy in trained participants.Links and resources:Read the original study: “A test of higher and lower fractional volumes of resistance training upon arm and thigh muscle area: A multi-site randomised trial” - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/403624000_A_test_of_higher_and_lower_fractional_volumes_of_resistance_training_upon_arm_and_thigh_muscle_area_A_multi-site_randomised_trial Follow James on Instagram @james.steeleii: https://www.instagram.com/james.steeleii/ Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-steele-b09a7355/v Folow his research on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/James-Steele-14 Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

If you feel like every holiday fucks up your fat loss progress, this is the episode for you.Links and resources:Sign up for one-on-one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Ben Yanes is back on the podcast to share his thoughts on:What mind-muscle connection is and how to develop itThe importance of curiosity to find the right training approach for you as an individualEmotions: an underrated variable influencing your gainsLinks and resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram @ben_yanes: https://www.instagram.com/ben_yanes/ Check out his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@The_Modern_Meathead/videos Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In the second episode of the Redemption Arc series, I’m covering the main training and nutrition updates from the last eight weeks in my current bulking phase.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Joshua Bradshaw is a coach for Beyond Bodybuilding, a pro natural bodybuilder, and an academic researcher.He joins me on the podcast today to discuss a study comparing the efficacy of myo reps to standard sets for hypertrophy.We delve into the study participants, methods, and results, then discuss practical application for everyday lifters.Links and resources:Connect with Josh on IG @joshtbrad: https://www.instagram.com/joshtbrad/ Check out Beyond Bodybuilding: https://www.beyondbodybuilding.com/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

A quick but comprehensive rant on the differences between regular and “women’s” creatine.Links and resources:Cited paper: “International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: creatine supplementation and exercise” – https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1186/1550-2783-4-6 Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this episode, returning guest sport and exercise psychologist Clara Swedlund and I delve into practical tips to prevent exercise- and nutrition-related burnout in people with ADHD, autism, or auDHD.Links and resources:Connect with Clara on IG @clara_theexerpsych: https://www.instagram.com/clara_theexerpsych/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

You’re not lazy. You’re not inconsistent. And you’re definitely not “lacking discipline.”If you either quit a diet early or push so hard that it becomes miserable, you have a strategy problem, not a motivation problem.In this solo episode, I’ll cover seven reasons of the most common reasons why, in my experience coaching them, hard-working trans lifters like you burn out dieting and what to do instead.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter and get your free copy of The Masc/Fem Physique Blueprint: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Returning guest Dr. Eric Helms and I cover what you need to know about food, drinks, and supplements to consume before, during, and after your resistance training sessions.Links and resources:Purchase Eric’s Nutrition & Strength Pyramid books (3rd edition): https://muscleandstrengthpyramids.com/ Check out the MASS Research Review: ⁠https://massresearchreview.com⁠Visit the 3DMJ website: https://3dmusclejourney.com/ Follow Eric on IG @helms3mdj: https://www.instagram.com/helms3dmj/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Jack Radford-Smith is a dietician, coach, and bodybuilder. He’s also the founder of an online coaching company, The Bodybuilding Dieticians.In this interview, we delve into all things gut health:Practical tips to improve itCommon gut health issues when cutting and bulkingOverrated, underrated, and properly rated gut health supplementsLinks and resources:Check out The Bodybuilding Dieticians on IG @thebodybuildingdieticians: https://www.instagram.com/thebodybuildingdietitians/ Visit their website: https://www.thebodybuildingdietitians.com/ Connect with Jack on IG @jack.radfordsmith: https://www.instagram.com/jack.radfordsmith/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This solo episode covers what you need to know about getting visible abs:How to train themHow to reveal themWhat it takes to get and maintain themDifferences between cis men and trans masc individualsSign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This is the start of an exciting new series, in which I’ll share personal updates about my own bodybuilding journey.To kick things off, I explain why I don’t think I’ve been able to build muscle to my full potential for years, how this has made me feel like an imposter, what’s changed, and what’s next for me.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

If you have a “trigger” food that you always seem to over-eat, you may have been told to “just keep it out of the house”.I don’t believe this strategy is effective in the long term.So, in this episode, I’m going to give you a better one, which doesn’t involve giving up on any food for the rest of your life.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Loz Vickers is a natural bodybuilder and online coach.She joins the show today to share her experience as a coach and athlete on these two thought-provoking topics:How to avoid burning out in the pursuit of building your physiqueThe mental challenges of gaining weight as a female bodybuilderLinks and resources:Follow Loz on Instagram @loz.v: https://www.instagram.com/loz.v/ Check out her podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/natural-female-muscle-podcast/id1734998424 Subscribe to her YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@loz.vickers Check out Natural Bodybuilding Worldwide: https://naturalbbworldwide.com/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this episode, I’m covering the last three foundational habits you need to create a system that will enable you to continue progressing towards your fitness goals, or maintain the results you’ve already achieved for the long haul.Links and resources:Research paper: “Eating attentively: a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of food intake memory and awareness on eating” by Robinson and colleagues – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3607652/#sec39 Research paper: “Daily distracted consumption patterns and their relationship with BMI” by Van Meer and colleagues – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195666322002276 Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Tracking calories and macros works.But if you regain weight after fat loss, or your bulk spirals without MyFitnessPal, you have yet to build the foundational habits you need to continue progressing beyond the “newbie gains” stage and to maintain the results you achieve for the long haul.In this episode, I’m covering three of these six foundational habits.If you want to level up from just “hitting macros”, tune in.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

IATBP bikini champion Lucy Cook joins the show to talk about her journey as a trans woman and bodybuilding athlete.Tune in to hear more about her inspiring story, navigating her gender identity, disordered eating, and now her passion for bodybuilding.Links and resources:Connect with Lucy on Instagram @lucy.liftsit: https://www.instagram.com/lucy.liftsit/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Is it better to bulk in a surplus or should you stay at maintenance calories?How have his thoughts on best bulking practices changed since we last discussed this in 2022?Links and resources:If you want to listen to the original podcast, click here or look up episode 13, “Fundamental principles for massing”: https://anchor.fm/fit-to-transform/episodes/Fundamental-principles-for-massing---With-Steve-Hall---Ep--13-e1osalk Follow Steve on Instagram @revivestronger https://www.instagram.com/revivestronger/Listen to the Revive Stronger podcast: https://revivestronger.com/podcast/ Visit the Revive Stronger website for their coaching, podcast, and other content: http://revivestronger.com/Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Derrick Van Every is a PhD candidate at Stu Phillips’ Protein Metabolism Lab as well as a powerlifting and nutrition coach.In this episode, we discuss the topics he addressed in one of his recent published papers, namely:What are the main drivers of hypertrophy?Does the pump cause hypertrophy?What about training-related hormonal increases?… And more!Links and resources:Derrick’s paper – “Load-induced human skeletal muscle hypertrophy: Mechanisms, myths, and misconceptions”: ⁠https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095254625000869⁠Connect with Derrick on Instagram @derrick_cbb: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/derrick_cbb/⁠ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠⁠Visit my website: ⁠⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform⁠ Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: ⁠https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/⁠ 

Derrick Van Every is a PhD candidate at Stu Phillips’ Protein Metabolism Lab as well as a powerlifting and nutrition coach.In this episode, we discuss the topics he addressed in one of his recent published papers, namely:What are the main drivers of hypertrophy?Does the pump cause hypertrophy?What about training-related hormonal increases?… And more!Links and resources:Derrick’s paper – “Load-induced human skeletal muscle hypertrophy: Mechanisms, myths, and misconceptions”: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095254625000869Connect with Derrick on Instagram @derrick_cbb: https://www.instagram.com/derrick_cbb/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Most people ask, “What’s the best diet for me?”But not enough people ask, “Am I ready to diet?”In my view, there are six skills to start working on BEFORE you start a fat loss diet in order to set yourself up for consistent results.These are core skills I help my new clients develop during their Fat Loss Primer Phase before their first ever fat loss phase under my guidance.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Dorian Varović is a coach and a researcher, currently working on his PhD on muscle length and regional muscle hypertrophy.He and his colleagues also recently conducted a very interesting study comparing regular resistance training and isometrics for hypertrophy.In this conversation, we delve into all these topics:The latest research on the importance of training muscles at long muscle lengthsHow training at long muscle lengths may or may not affect regional hypertrophyAre isometrics as good as regular training for growth?… And more!Links and resources:“Does Muscle Length Influence Regional Hypertrophy? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40570881/ “The effects of long muscle length isometric versus full range of motion isotonic training on regional quadriceps femoris hypertrophy in resistance-trained individuals” - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40911904/ Connect with Dorian on Instagram @varovicdorian: https://www.instagram.com/varovicdorian/Follow his research on ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Dorian-Varovic-2 Apply for coaching with him: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeGiZCo7fG8d78dCHgOHvgeu1dCh7AKL-sfRpw478MmGZtWxw/viewform?usp=send_form Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

To kick off 2026, I couldn’t not record an episode about mindset.In this one, I’m covering ten hard-to-swallow pills for people who struggle with perfectionistic tendencies and all-or-nothing thinking.I’ve been challenged by these tendencies all my life, and work with a lot of clients in the same boat, so I’ve seen the countless ways in which this can hold you back (and experienced a fair few of them, too).That’s why I wanted to record this episode.If you embrace these suggestions, you can finally get out of the vicious stop-and-start-again-Monday cycle that these tendencies have you stuck in, and you can start getting the results you deserve for your hard work.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Dr. Tess Kilwein is a mental health practitioner who specialises in supporting the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Since June 2025, Dr. Kilwein is also the Mental Health & Performance Consultant of IATBP (the International Association of Trans Bodybuilders and Powerlifters).In this episode, we talk about the most common issues Dr. Kilwein helps her patients with, focusing specifically on transgender bodybuilders and more broadly on transgender athletes across all sports.Dr. Kilwein owns and operates Unapologetic Psychology PLLC, a telemental health practice dedicated to psychotherapy, consultation, training, and sport and mental performance services.A specialist in integrated behavioral health, sport and mental performance, alcohol and substance use, sexual health, trauma, rural health, and LGBTQIA2S+ experiences, Dr. Kilwein is committed to dismantling barriers to mental health care. Their approach is trauma-informed, affirming, and liberatory, addressing mental health at the intersection of performance, identity, and systemic marginalization.Links and resources:Visit Tess’s website: https://www.unapologeticpsych.com/Book a free consult with Tess by becoming a member of IATBP: https://iatbp.org/ Follow Tess’s practice on Instagram @unapologeticpsych: https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticpsych/ Find Tess on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessmkilwein/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

If you choose to track your calories over the winter holidays, “borrowing” some from the days leading up to Christmas in order to have a higher-calorie day on the 25th sounds sensible, right?And yet, you keep overshooting your calories on the big day…In this episode, I’m going to cover six of the most common reasons why you can’t seem to stick to your plan, no matter how carefully you prepare, and the solutions that my clients and I have found most effective.Of course, this can apply to any social meal, but it’s Christmas season, so ho ho ho and all that!Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Cutting and bulking can feel emotionally and psychologically different when you’re trans.In this solo episode, I’m sharing three strategies I’ve found most effective to help my clients navigate these emotions while working on building their physique.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nikias_fittotransform Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This is the second and final part of my comprehensive interview with Dr. Eric Helms on all things lower body exercise selection.Links and resources:Check out the MASS Research Review: ⁠https://massresearchreview.com⁠Visit the 3DMJ website: https://3dmusclejourney.com/ Purchase Eric’s books here: https://muscleandstrengthpyramids.com/ Follow Eric on IG @helms3mdj: https://www.instagram.com/helms3dmj/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

After interviewing biomechanics enthusiast Ben Yanes on effective upper body training, this time I’m bringing back Dr. Eric Helms to discuss exercise selection for the lower body.Looking to grow hamstrings, calves, quads, glutes, or all of the above? You’re in for a treat!Links and resources:Check out the MASS Research Review: ⁠https://massresearchreview.com⁠Visit the 3DMJ website: https://3dmusclejourney.com/ Purchase Eric’s books here: https://muscleandstrengthpyramids.com/ Follow Eric on IG @helms3mdj: https://www.instagram.com/helms3dmj/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

These are the three most common mistakes I’ve seen in the online trans masc fitness space over the years, and I fell victim to at least one of them myself.I decided to dedicate this episode to them, so you don’t have to make them!Links and resources:Blog article: “What You Need to Do Before Your First Cut or Bulk” - https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/blog/before-your-first-cut-or-bulk Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

How do high achievers stick to the plan without deviation when everyone else is struggling?What does a high achiever find challenging, if not consistency?What can you learn from them to improve upon your own results?Coach and bodybuilder Natalie Lewis from coaching company Elevated Coaching Systems and I contemplate the answers to these questions while we talk about her first ever, very successful competitive bodybuilding season.Links and resources:Connect with Natalie on IG @natalieatswell: https://www.instagram.com/natalieatswell/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

These tips are for you if you’re already applying basic hunger management strategies––like increasing protein and fibre––but you’re getting very lean, your diet fatigue is rising, and the basics are no longer enough.The more aggressive your deficit, the longer you’ve been dieting for, and the leaner you are, the more consistency-saving these tips become.Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Bodybuilding coach and pro bodybuilder Steve Hall and I discuss the ins and outs of contest prep for first timers in the form of a fun role play.If you’re interested in competing or just want to gain an insight into what it takes to achieve essential body fat levels, tune into this one.Links and resources:Follow Steve on Instagram @revivestronger https://www.instagram.com/revivestronger/Listen to the Revive Stronger podcast: https://revivestronger.com/podcast/ Visit the Revive Stronger website for their coaching, podcast, and other content: http://revivestronger.com/Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this episode, I discuss the answers to thirteen cutting FAQs I’ve collected in over six years of coaching 100+ clients and talking to many more people about their physique development process.Links and resources:“Energy deficiency impairs resistance training gains in lean mass but not strength: A meta-analysis and meta-regression” by Murphy and Koehler – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623696/“Effect of Dietary Protein on Fat-Free Mass in Energy Restricted, Resistance-Trained Individuals: An Updated Systematic Review With Meta-Regression” by Refalo and colleagues – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23679146/ Blog article: “A Comprehensive Guide to Feeling Fuller on Your Weight Loss Diet” – https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/blog/guide-to-hunger Blog article: “How to Track Your Weight for Muscle Gain or Fat Loss (Part 1)” – https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/blog/how-to-track-your-weight Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this episode, Luke Leaman from Muscle Nerds and I discuss key aspects of fat loss physiology that no one is telling you about, such as:How different levels of body fat impact your ability to lose fat, and what to do about itHow to get rid of stubborn fatWhy “It’s just a calorie deficit” is correct, but overtly simplistic… And more!Luke Leaman and his wife Zoe started Muscle Nerds in 2015.He is a coach and educator with decades of academic knowledge and practical experience in the fitness industry.Links and resources:Check out the Muscle Nerds YouTube channel @MuscleNerdsEducation: https://www.youtube.com/@MuscleNerdsEducation Connect with them on Instagram @musclenerds_education: https://www.instagram.com/musclenerds_education/ Visit their website: musclenerds.net Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this episode, I discuss the answers to ten bulking FAQs I’ve collected in over six years of coaching 100+ clients and talking to many more people about their physique development process.Links and resources:“Effect of Small and Large Energy Surpluses on Strength, Muscle, and Skinfold Thickness in Resistance-Trained Individuals: A Parallel Groups Design” by Helms and colleagues – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37914977/ “Effect of nutritional intervention on body composition and performance in elite athletes” by Garthe and colleagues – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23679146/ “Nutrition Recommendations for Bodybuilders in the Off-Season: A Narrative Review” by Iraki and colleagues – https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4663/7/7/154 Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

The evidence-informed high-energy flux lifestyle coach Brandon DaCruz and I discuss in this podcast is perfect for you if your goal is to achieve a lean physique and maintain it while also performing at a high level in both your training and the rest of your life.Brandon DaCruz is an internationally accredited nutritionist and physique coach who has been working with clients exclusively online since 2013. Brandon has been featured in publications like Men’s Fitness Magazine, Muscular Development, Bodybuilding.com and the Alan Aragon Research Review where he’s been a contributing author. He’s also an internationally published fitness model and National Level NPC competitor having competed 15 times. Brandon has spent the past 15 plus years working in the coaching, sports nutrition and training industries and believes in taking an evidence-informed approach where he blends what’s been proven in the research with his own anecdotal and first hand in the trenches experience having worked with over 1100 clients ranging from Olympia-Level physique competitors and lifestyle clients to high level corporate executives, business owners and other fitness professionals to optimize body composition, improve performance and enhance health in order to help his clients achieve their goals whether that be losing body fat, building muscle, increasing performance or optimizing health in a sustainable manner. Links and resources:Email: [email protected]: https://www.instagram.com/brandondacruz_/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandondacruzfitnessWebsite: https://www.brandondacruzfit.comPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6WXEsuAYJ9lThUaObHoSAi?si=lrFtRC4cRQ2rYdpSFFBgWASign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This episode is a comprehensive guide to a crucial yet not widely discussed stage of a fat loss phase: the first two to four weeks after the diet ends, when you’re navigating the transition to maintenance calories.A lot of coaches won’t even coach clients through this phase, and just drop them after they get their “before” and “after” transformation pictures.Not only is that not my way of coaching. I decided to dedicate an entire episode to a step-by-step guide on how to approach this transition successfully.If you do it right, you will set yourself up for long-term fat loss maintenance or any other physique-related goal you may want to pursue.Links and resources:The MacroFactor website to estimate caloric expenditure: https://macrofactorapp.com/exercise-calorie-calculator/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This unique episode features a role-playing game between myself and a returning guest: HCPC Sport & Exercise Psychologist Clara Swedlund.I took on the role of an imaginary client of Clara’s, someone who’s struggling to achieve their fitness goals and thinks that the answer is to be harder on themselves.But is being tough on yourself really the most effective solution in this case?Tune in to find out!Links and resources:Connect with Clara on IG @clara_theexerpsych: https://www.instagram.com/clara_theexerpsych/ Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

This episode covers everything you need to know in order to track calories consistently and accurately enough to get results:What’s more important: consistency or accuracy?How to choose the best calorie- and macro-tracking app for your individual needsTracking at homeTracking restaurant meals, holiday food, and meals prepared by your loved ones… And more!Links and resources:Ep. 161: “Effective boundaries around food and exercise, weight stigma, and skinny shaming - With Joe Spector” –  https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/fit-to-transform/episodes/Effective-boundaries-around-food-and-exercise--weight-stigma--and-skinny-shaming---With-Joe-Spector---Ep--161-e367oco  Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Ben Yanes has been making a name for himself on social media and YouTube by taking the confusion out of lifting with his simple but effective approach to teaching biomechanics.In this episode, we…Discuss the best upper body exercises to include in your programBreak down each upper body muscle into its fundamental actions to make your technique more effectiveBust training myths… And more!Links and resources:Connect with Ben on Instagram @ben_yanes: https://www.instagram.com/ben_yanes/ Check out his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@The_Modern_Meathead/videos Download his brand-new Biomechanics Manual: https://www.modernmeathead.com/manual Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this episode, I cover the following questions:Any tips to help impatience in a cut?Do you get diminishing returns in muscle gain with each new bulk? Is there anything special about the muscle-building capacity of your first bulk?Do you need to keep dropping cals in a deficit?If you eat at maintenance (a range, but an average of the same calories a week) and train doing progressive overload, will you gain muscle slowly and does that mean the scale will go up? Or stay the same over time?How does the thyroid affect fat loss?Started lifting seriously last year in January and I was in maintenance for 13 months, then started a calorie deficit since I am overweight. I kept (and keep) on lifting hard 3 times a week. Can I still build a decent amount of muscle after another 2-3 months in a deficit and then maintenance again?What are some underrated advantages of eating at maintenance calories?Links and resources:Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Dr. Scott Stevenson is back on the show to share his stance on effective training for muscle growth.His training philosophy rests upon decades of experience training himself and coaching others, and on his understanding of the scientific literature on these topics.Links and resources:Connect with Scott on IG @fortitude_training: https://www.instagram.com/fortitude_training/ Purchase Scott’s book, “Be Your Own Bodybuilding Coach”, on eBay to donate to ASPCA: https://www.ebay.com/itm/205121965946 Or on Amazon: https://drscottstevenson.com/byobbcoach.html Purchase Scott’s eBook, “Fortitude Training”, about his training system with dietary and supplementation recommendations: https://drscottstevenson.com/fortitude-training-products.html Check out Scott’s Muscle Minds presentations: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhB9QHZc60aj2tzC48MmeY03ULd6NUpziSign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

Dr. Scott Stevenson is back on the show to share his stance on effective training for muscle growth.His training philosophy rests upon decades of experience training himself and coaching others, and on his understanding of the scientific literature on these topics.Links and resources:Connect with Scott on IG @fortitude_training: https://www.instagram.com/fortitude_training/ Purchase Scott’s book, “Be Your Own Bodybuilding Coach”, on eBay to donate to ASPCA: https://www.ebay.com/itm/205121965946 Or on Amazon: https://drscottstevenson.com/byobbcoach.html Purchase Scott’s eBook, “Fortitude Training”, about his training system with dietary and supplementation recommendations: https://drscottstevenson.com/fortitude-training-products.html Check out Scott’s Muscle Minds presentations: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLhB9QHZc60aj2tzC48MmeY03ULd6NUpziSign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/ 

In this solo episode, I’m rating the importance of the following for a bulking phase in a calorie surplus:DisciplineTrainingLarge surpluses (500+ calories)Nutritional structureSleep and stress managementScale weightTrust in the processLinks and resources:Blog article: “A Comprehensive Guide to Sleep for Fat Loss and Muscle Growth” – https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/blog/sleep-guide Sign up for one on one coaching with me: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com/coaching.html⁠Follow me on Instagram @nikias_fittotransform: ⁠http://instagram.com/nikias_fittotransform/⁠Visit my website: ⁠https://www.fittotransformtraining.com⁠Sign up for my free newsletter: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/157389602fb0/mailinglist⁠Sign up for the No Quit Kit email series on retraining your mindset for long-term fat loss success: ⁠https://mailchi.mp/4b368c26baa8/noquitkitsignup⁠Take my free “Should You Cut or Bulk First?” quiz: https://nikias-dddr9p81.scoreapp.com/