Garage Gym Athlete
by Jerred Moon
Welcome to the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, where we explore the world of functional fitness and performance training in the home gym. Join us as we talk to coaches, athletes, and experts about their experiences in building strength, endurance, and athleticism outside the traditional gym setting. In addition to sharing practical tips and strategies, we'll also delve into the latest scientific research on topics like exercise physiology, nutrition, and recovery to help you optimize your training and achieve your best results. Whether you're a seasoned garage gym veteran or just getting started on your fitness journey, this podcast is for you. So if you're ready to unleash your inner athlete and take control of your training, tune in to the Garage Gym Athlete podcast.
Episodes
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Mixed Modal Aerobic Training: Build Fitness for Real Life | 368
We break down mixed modal aerobic training and why combining strength movements with conditioning can build fitness for real life. We explain how it differs from simply racing through a circuit, why aerobic training does not have to mean running, and how Jerred's experience working with military...
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Goals vs. Standards: Build Fitness That Lasts | 367
We talk about setting fitness goals that matter to you and building standards you can maintain for years. Dave shares his next challenge: a 500-pound back squat and a sub-five-minute mile on the same day. We dig into the reasons behind that goal, why someone else's excitement cannot carry your...
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HRV, Pain, and Longevity: What the Research Means for Your Training | 366
We return to the science with four studies that challenge how we think about readiness, pain, and long-term health. We compare HRV-guided training with a fixed program, then look at how a structured subjective questionnaire can help athletes adjust training. We discuss the DALDA questionnaire…
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One Man One Barbell: Get Stronger Without Giving Up Conditioning | 365
We wrap up our strength program series with One Man One Barbell, the program Jerred built for athletes who want to get stronger and stay fast. We break down the four working sets, the EMOM method, and how focused strength sessions leave room for conditioning. We compare One Man One Barbell with...
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The Athlete Dad: Why Fitness Is Not Optional | 364
We have a solo episode this week. Jerred flies solo to talk about being a father and an athlete at the same time, what that has looked like over 14 years and three kids, and how he has kept training consistent from the infant years through the teenage Uber driver years. The big idea is simple…
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The Garage Gym Athlete App Is Live: Our Favorite Features | 363
We are officially live in the Apple and Android app stores, and in this episode we break down the Garage Gym Athlete app and the features we are most excited about. We start with a huge thank you to the beta community, roughly 100 athletes who left Train Heroic early, trusted us with a beta app,...
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Only Three Days a Week to Train: The Six Piece Checklist | 362
We take on the question we get more than almost any other: what do you do when you only have three days a week to train. We are done with the just do what you can answer from coaches. Constraints are exactly where programming matters most, and three days a week is plenty to make real progress if...
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The Final Training Cycle of 2026: What You Need To Know
We break down everything coming in Cycle 4, the final cycle of 2026, so you can pick your track and know exactly what your training is going to look like. We open with a community update from the last cycle: 39.4 million pounds lifted, 12.7 million meters moved, and 7,555 sessions logged. Then we...
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Rucking vs Running vs Cycling: Which One Actually Pairs With Lifting | 361
We break down the three big aerobic modalities for a concurrent training athlete and what each one actually costs you. Running has the lowest barrier to entry and the highest metabolic demand, which is exactly why it interferes with strength the most. Rucking is the easiest way to hold real Zone…
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300 Bench. 400 Squat. 500 Deadlift. Sub 20 min 5K...all in less than 1 hour | 360
In this episode: 0:10 A Massive Update Begins 0:35 Dave's Big Goal 5:14 Bench Press Under Pressure 7:16 Squat Feels Smooth 9:26 Deadlift and Bathroom Break 13:03 The 5K Start 15:14 Hitting the Wall 19:13 Final Lap Push 24:37 The Real Finish Time 27:37 Lessons From the Challenge We update the...
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Standards: How to Avoid Being Average | 359
Most people treat consistency as the finish line, but it is only the baseline. We break down the fitness standards linked to longevity, why training to the test misses the point, and how Garage Gym Athlete's Recruit, Established, and Competitor levels help you set a minimum standard you refuse to...
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Westside Barbell Conjugate: Steal the Principles, Skip the Program | 358
We take on the third leg of the strength series with Louie Simmons, Westside Barbell, and the conjugate method. Jerred lays out the actual structure, two max effort days and two dynamic effort days a week, why the max effort movement rotates every single session instead of repeating, how the…
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Your AI Coach Is Lying to You: What Two New Studies Found | 357
We dig into two new 2026 studies that audited five popular AI chatbots on health questions, and athletic performance came back as the weakest category of the whole audit. We cover why an LLM is a prediction machine and not an all knowing coach, the sycophancy problem that lets you argue a chatbot...
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Athlete Q&A: Minimal Kit Strength, Hotel Gym Training, and Coming Back After a Break | 356
We answer your questions in this athlete Q&A. We cover transitioning from a full gym to the Minimal Kit version of Hard to Kill, what the research says about building strength and fitness with minimal equipment, and which kettlebells to pick whether you are advanced or just getting started. We…
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Wendler 5/3/1 The Program and Philosophy | 355
0:00 Strength Series Begins 1:15 Wendler 531 Basics 4:44 The Plus Set Explained 8:45 Training Max Philosophy 13:22 Accessories, Conditioning, and Balance 21:01 Build Armor, Add Mass 24:10 Walrus Program and Longevity 28:47 Final Verdict on 531 In this episode, we discuss Jim Wendler's 5/3/1…
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HomeGymCon: $50K Garage Gym vs. $5K Garage Gym...Are You Any More Fit? | 354
We record live from Home Gym Con and discuss how the home gym market has evolved, with many brands now offering larger, more commercial-style equipment. We talk about the difficulty of comparing similar products, the rise of Smith machines, pulley systems, and multi-function setups, and why we...
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Our Community Proves the Method | 353
In this episode I give an update on Garage Gym Athlete after a period of burnout and uncertainty, explaining that I've spent the past seven months clarifying the company vision and rebuilding around a larger long-term mission. I cover the new website, updated branding, and new logo, as well as…
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The Melatonin Recovery Mystery: Better Recovery, Same Sleep | 352
In this episode we discuss a small placebo-controlled crossover study on melatonin and caffeine in trained young men, looking at sprint performance, sleep, and recovery markers. We go over the main findings, including improved performance with caffeine and better recovery measures with melatonin,...
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Maybe Vo2Max isn't as Important as We Thought... | 351
In this episdoe: 0:04 - VO2 Max Obsession Explained 2:58 - Study Design and Data Scale 4:41 - VO2 Max Is Only a Metric 7:34 - Performance, Not Just Endurance 8:49 - Body Fat and Activity Matter 12:59 - Why Performance Goals Work 17:16 - GLP-1s and Body Composition 21:12 - No Metric Chasing 22:09…
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Starting Strength Reviewed: Does Mark Rippetoe's Program Still Deliver? | Strength Series Pt. 1 | 350
The episode introduces Mark Rippetoe's Starting Strength, covering its alternating workouts, simple progression, and focus on squat, press/bench, and deadlift. It also explains why the program works and who it suits best. Chapters 0:03 - Getting Stronger Basics 4:45 - Strength Journeys 10:30 -...
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Behind the Scenes: The Future of Garage Gym Athlete | 349
Most gym owners and fitness enthusiasts overlook one crucial ingredient that keeps their community thriving long-term — and it's not what you think. Jerred and Dave pull back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes innovations transforming Garage Gym Athlete to serve you better, faster, and more...
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7 Cutting-Edge Fitness Innovations: What's Hype and What's Real? | 348
Most fitness trends are overhyped — but some innovative tools and technologies are actually worth your attention. If you're a health-conscious athlete tired of gimmicks, this episode is for you. Jerred, Joe, and Dave cut through the noise to reveal which cutting-edge gadgets could genuinely…
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How Drop Sets Help You Lift Smarter and Unlock More Muscle Growth | 347
Most gym goers overlook one of the most efficient tools for hypertrophy and strength: drop sets. But does sacrificing a bit of recovery time truly match traditional training results? Jerred and Dave decipher a recent 2026 meta-analysis that reveals drop sets are as effective as regular...
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The Long-Term Garage Gym Strategy That Saves You Money and Space | 346
Most garage gym setups overlook a critical factor that could save you thousands and drastically improve your space—insulation and climate control. Dave and Jerred dive into the expert strategies for designing a garage gym that lasts, stays safe, and adapts to your evolving goals. Whether you're a...
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The GLP-1 Rebound: Why the Weight Comes Back (And How to Beat It) | 345
Most weight loss medications, like GLP-1s, deliver incredible results—initially. But what happens after you stop taking them? And are the long-term risks worth the short-term gains? Jared Moon and Dave unpack the surprising truth behind these powerful drugs, based on a groundbreaking systematic...
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10 Years of Wearables: What's Actually Worth Tracking (And What to Ignore) | 344
Most wearables are a Pandora's box of useful data and confusing inaccuracies — but for serious athletes and gym enthusiasts, the real value lies in what actually influences your training and lifestyle.In this eye-opening episode, Jerred Moon and Dave break down their decades-long experience with...
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Why Most Training Programs Fail to Cover All Movement Planes—for Longevity & Power | 343
This episode isn't just about avoiding injury—it's about unlocking your full athletic potential and performing at your best while staying healthy long-term. Whether you're dialing in your own workouts or coaching others, understanding these movement streams will help you craft smarter, safer...
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How Your Body Protects Muscles From Excessive Training—And What It Means for Growth | 342
Most resistance training studies focus on untrained people, but what happens when you push the volume in trained athletes? In this eye-opening episode, Jerred Moon and Dave reveal a groundbreaking study showing that increasing training volume by up to 120% doesn't impair muscle growth or recovery...
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The Surprising Truth About Interval Walking and Its Impact on Your Fitness | 341
Most people get caught up searching for the next big fitness hack, but this episode reveals the simple truth: interval training beats steady-state for real results. Whether you're 60 or 30, if you're looking to get stronger, improve your blood pressure, or boost your aerobic capacity…
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Mastering Hybrid Athlete Training: Strength, Hypertrophy & Energy Systems | 340
Most people overlook one crucial detail: training for strength or hypertrophy isn't just about lifting heavier or doing more reps — it's about understanding which goal aligns with your long-term vision—and how to program effectively for it. This episode reveals the unseen differences between...
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How to Not Suck at Murph (2026 Edition) | 339
Most fitness programs miss the real secret to crushing Murph faster, and it has nothing to do with just working harder. In this episode, Jerred Moon sits down with physical therapist Dave to break down the proven strategies that can slash your Murph time and keep you injury-free. Whether you're...
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Field Training vs Heavy Lifting: Which Builds Real Strength? | 338
Most elite military athletes are proving that you don't need a massive gym or state-of-the-art equipment to achieve top-tier results. A groundbreaking study challenges the long-held belief that heavy barbells are essential for strength, endurance, and tactical performance. Instead, it reveals the...
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Is Exercise Snacking A Game Changer For Your Goals? | 337
Most people underestimate how tiny, consistent movements—just 30 seconds every hour—can dramatically improve metabolic health. In this episode, Jerred and Dave dissect groundbreaking research from China showing how exercise snacking can reduce blood sugar, insulin resistance, and even reverse...
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Why Many Fail at Fitness Programs (And How to Avoid It) | 336
Discover effective strategies for succeeding in your fitness journey. Learn practical tips to maintain motivation and track progress for lasting results.
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no martyrs. get it done. | 335
Jerred Moon discusses the importance of self-care, high standards, and daily discipline in health and fitness, emphasizing that no one will do it for you. He shares personal stories, exercises, and mindset strategies to help you stay committed and avoid complacency.
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How to Use Accommodating Resistance for Strength Training | 334
In this episode, Jerred and Dave dive into the concept of accommodating resistance, focusing on the use of bands and chains in strength training. They discuss a 2026 meta-analysis study that highlights the benefits of accommodating resistance for increasing maximal strength and improving jump...
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What's Quietly Killing Your Performance | 333
Summary In this episode, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss their recent training updates, the Daily Over Decades challenge, and common performance killers. They share insights on maintaining consistency during travel, the impact of supplements like creatine, and nutrition strategies for optimal...
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How To Run Longer WITHOUT Getting Tired | 332
Episode Summary: In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave break down how to run longer without fatigue. They unpack five proven strategies that improve endurance and delay exhaustion: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Strength Training Lactate Threshold…
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Chasing Speed and Strength Simultaneously? Here's the Problem for Hybrid Athletes | 330
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave delve into the concept of concurrent training, which combines strength and aerobic training. They discuss a recent study on concurrent training, exploring its effects on muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy. The conversation...
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Your Brain Is Limiting Your Strength & Endurance Gains | 329
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss the concept of brain endurance training and its significance in enhancing physical performance. They share personal experiences and insights on how mental resilience can impact athletic performance, particularly in...
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Athletes: Drink More Coffee. Live Longer. (New Scientific Study) | 328
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave delve into the complexities of coffee consumption, particularly its effects on health and performance. They discuss a study involving over 40,000 participants that examines the relationship between coffee drinking patterns and...
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This is what Consistency ACTUALLY Looks Like | 327
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss the importance of consistency in fitness, particularly through their 300 Challenge. They share insights from the community, strategies for maintaining daily and weekly training goals, and the significance of...
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Maximize Your Fitness: The Power of Heart Rate Zones | 326
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete Podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave dive deep into the concept of zone training, focusing on how to effectively utilize heart rate zones for optimal fitness and performance. They discuss the importance of calculating maximum heart rate accurately, emphasizing...
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Light Exposure and Athletic Performance. Kettlebell vs. Barbell. | 325
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss the effects of light exposure on athletic performance, focusing on a study involving elite athletes. They explore the benefits of morning light and the importance of avoiding screens before bedtime. The conversation...
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2-Year Study Finds 5 Hours of Weekly Exercise with High Intensity Reversed Aging of the Heart | 324
In this episode, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss a recent study that explores the effects of high-intensity training on cardiac health over two years. They delve into the study's methodology, participant selection, and the significant findings that suggest it's never too late to start exercising.…
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The Real Reason Your Testosterone Levels are Plummeting Right Now (and what to do about it) | 323
In this episode, we tackle the wild claims about plummeting "low testosterone" levels and what it means for "men's health". We dive into the "social media" frenzy surrounding "hormones" and discuss whether these headlines truly offer useful "health tips". Join us as we cut through the noise and...
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Consistently Choosing the Hard Right Over the Easy Wrong with Dave Paczkowski | 322
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave explore the idea of consistently choosing the hard right over the easy wrong across fitness, business, family, and life. Using Dave's story and the philosophy behind Garage Gym Athlete as the backdrop, they discuss why long-term...
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Forget 75 Hard...Try a REAL Challenge (Daily Over Decades) | 321
In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave discuss the Daily Over Decades challenge, a unique fitness initiative designed to promote long-term consistency and sustainable habits. They delve into the structure of the challenge, emphasizing the importance of setting…
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Should Hybrid Athletes Use ChatGPT for Workouts? | 320
In this episode, Jerred and Dave discuss the implications of using ChatGPT for workout programming. They explore the limitations of AI in creating personalized training plans, particularly for advanced athletes. The conversation delves into specific examples, such as the Murph workout, and...
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Why I Almost Quit Garage Gym Athlete (and Why I am Coming Back) | 319
Garage Gym Athlete is not going anywhere. In this episode I talk directly to the Garage Gym Athlete community about where I've been, how getting injured and burned out pulled me away, and why I'm going all in again for 2026. If you train in a home gym and believe in daily over decades, this is…
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About this show
Welcome to the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, where we explore the world of functional fitness and performance training in the home gym. Join us as we talk to coaches, athletes, and experts about their experiences in building strength, endurance, and athleticism outside the traditional gym setting. In addition to sharing practical tips and strategies, we'll also delve into the latest scientific research on topics like exercise physiology, nutrition, and recovery to help you optimize your training and achieve your best results. Whether you're a seasoned garage gym veteran or just getting started on your fitness journey, this podcast is for you. So if you're ready to unleash your inner athlete and take control of your training, tune in to the Garage Gym Athlete podcast.
Hosted by
Jerred Moon