Why You Don’t Need a Gym to Get Strong: Linda & Chrissy’s Coaching Story

Can women do pull-ups? Yes—absolutely. In this standalone Beast Over Burden episode, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson break down the controversy around new pull-up standards and use it as a springboard to tackle one of the most common fitness myths: that women can’t do pull-ups. You’ll learn: Why benching your bodyweight often predicts your first chin-up How to progress from bands and negatives to unassisted reps Why bench and chin training sometimes interfere—and how to fix it The truth about “high-protein” food trends like Starbucks’ new protein milk This episode is a blend of myth-busting, practical programming, and smart nutrition advice for lifters who train for strength, health, and longevity. Whether you’re a beginner or chasing your next PR, this one’s for you. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

Stronger at any age: discover why you don’t need a gym to get strong. Linda’s story proves that with the right coaching and consistency, you can build strength, health, and confidence at home—no matter your age or equipment. You don’t need a gym to get strong. In this episode of The Coaching Advantage: Real Stories of Strength & Nutrition, Niki and Andrew reflect on the powerful journey of Linda, a 70-year-old lifter who transformed her health with the guidance of Barbell Logic coach Chrissy. From overcoming intimidation and training at home with nothing but bodyweight, to building a simple home gym, battling osteopenia, and learning to shift her mindset around progress, Linda’s story proves that strength training is for everyone—at any age, with any level of equipment. You’ll learn how coaching adapts to your unique situation, why building strength is the best defense against aging, and how even small, consistent efforts can add up to lasting health and independence. Whether you’re starting late, training at home, or just wondering if strength training is worth it, this episode shows why you don’t need a gym to build the confidence, resilience, and vitality you want for life. Timestamps 0:00 – Why you don’t need a gym to get strong 1:30 – Gym intimidation and the hidden barriers for older lifters 4:50 – Training at home: starting with nothing and building over time 9:00 – Strength training vs. osteopenia and aging 13:00 – Redefining progress: from PRs to preparing for life What You’ll Learn Why you don’t need a gym to begin strength training How online coaching can empower people at any age Practical ways to train at home with minimal equipment The role of strength training in aging and bone health How creative coaching adapts principles to real lives Hashtags #StrengthTraining #HomeWorkouts #Longevity #FitnessPodcast #YouDontNeedAGym #BarbellLogic #HealthyAging #StrengthForLife PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

In this episode of The Coaching Advantage: Real Stories of Strength & Nutrition, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson sit down with Barbell Logic coach Chrissy and her client Linda to share how consistent coaching transforms life at every age. Linda began lifting in her 70s while navigating scoliosis and later osteoporosis. With the right coaching and smart training modifications, she built confidence, strength, and muscle that carry over into everyday life—from carrying groceries to picking up grandkids. You’ll learn how coaching provides accountability and structure, why restraint matters more than chasing soreness, and what it looks like to keep training for health, longevity, and hypertrophy through the decades. This inspiring conversation proves it’s never too late to start, adapt, and thrive with strength training. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

Struggling to turn your training into lasting results? In this kickoff to The Coaching Advantage series, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson share their personal journeys, why they coach every day, and how strength and nutrition coaching transform everyday life. From breaking through plateaus to reclaiming health and longevity, this conversation shows why coaching matters for everyday lifters who want more than just numbers on the bar. What You’ll Learn Why Niki and Andrew became coaches — and what keeps them motivated after years of daily coaching. The “magic moments” when coaching clicks and creates lasting transformation. How strength and nutrition coaching transform everyday life, from reduced pain to renewed confidence. Why progress isn’t linear and how coaching helps lifters push through plateaus. The unique benefits of long-term online coaching relationships for accountability and results. What to expect from this new interview series with real coaches and clients. Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to Beast Over Burden and the new interview series. 2:15 – Why we coach: the deeper meaning behind daily coaching. 4:50 – Niki’s start in CrossFit and how it led to strength coaching. 7:20 – Andrew’s roots in sports, family coaching influence, and the transformative power of strength training. 12:50 – Coaching vs. corporate work: why helping lifters feels more rewarding. 16:20 – Client stories: from grim outlooks to renewed visions of the future. 20:00 – How lifters respond to setbacks and learn resilience through coaching. 23:40 – The long-term benefits of online coaching relationships. 25:40 – What’s next in this interview series: coaches and clients share real journeys. Hashtags #StrengthTraining #NutritionCoaching #FitnessPodcast #Longevity #Hypertrophy #EverydayLifters #BarbellTraining #QualityOfLife PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

Feeling stuck under the barbell? This Strength With Purpose episode dives into how to find your why so you can train with consistency and purpose even when motivation fades, life gets messy, or the excitement of chasing PRs wears off. Nikki Sims and Andrew Jackson share how to punch the clock with minimum-viable sessions, bring variety into your training without losing progress, and lean on coaching and community to reignite purpose for the long haul. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to recognize when your training motivation has dipped—and what that really means. Practical strategies to find your why and keep training consistent. The power of “minimum-viable” workouts that hold strength and muscle through busy or stressful seasons. Why variety (hypertrophy, machines, exercise swaps) can renew purpose without derailing goals. When to talk to a coach, remove “buzzkill” lifts, and reset your program with smart structure. Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome to Beast Over Burden: why lifters lose motivation 1:00 – Feeling stuck and the importance of purpose in training 3:00 – Recognizing ruts: apathy, boredom, and hidden signals 5:00 – Faith over hype: trusting you’ll feel better after training 7:00 – Punch-the-clock sessions: how to define your minimum-viable workout 12:00 – Travel, schedules, and training through life chaos 16:00 – Buzzkill lifts and how to swap them guilt-free 20:00 – Variety with purpose: hypertrophy, machines, and refreshing programs 24:00 – Coaching consults and the value of real-time feedback 26:00 – Closing thoughts: how to find your why again Hashtags #StrengthWithPurpose #FindYourWhy #StrengthTraining #LongevityFitness #Hypertrophy #StrengthForLife #BarbellLogic #BeastOverBurden PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

Taking a break from lifting can feel like you’ve lost it all—but most lifters bounce back faster than they expect. In this episode of Strength With Purpose, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson share the exact steps for getting back into lifting without overdoing it or losing motivation. Whether you’ve been away for a couple of weeks or more than six months, you’ll learn how to adjust your training, reframe your mindset, and rebuild consistency for long-term success. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why getting back into lifting feels harder than it is—and how to make the first step easier The key differences between a short layoff (2–4 weeks) and a long layoff (3–6 months) How to ease back into training without excessive soreness or injury risk The “runway” approach to comebacks that keeps you training consistently Why comparing your comeback to your lifetime PRs can slow your progress Simple programming adjustments for a faster return to strength and muscle Why Listen: If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to get back in the gym, this episode is your sign. You’ll leave with a practical plan, a mindset shift that sticks, and the confidence to start training again—stronger and smarter. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

In this episode of Strength With Purpose: Goals-Driven Training & Exercise, Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson unpack everything you need to know about how to grow your glutes. From hip thrust mechanics to Bulgarian split squats, glute kickbacks, and programming principles, this episode gives you practical strategies to get stronger, look better, and train smarter. The hosts also share real-world coaching experiences, explore accessory work for glute isolation, and provide insights on balancing calorie surpluses, deficits, and recovery for optimal growth. Whether your goal is performance, aesthetics, or longevity, this episode has actionable tips to take your training to the next level. ⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 – Intro & fun banter 1:20 – Training goals & fitness myths 5:01 – Weighted vests: benefits & limitations 9:38 – How to grow your glutes: the real focus 12:28 – Why the hip thrust works so well 17:03 – Accessory lifts that deliver results 20:48 – Back extensions & glute targeting 23:36 – Programming for glute growth 26:27 – Balancing fatigue, strength, and hypertrophy 29:59 – Nutrition and realistic body composition goals 32:54 – Outro & final thoughts 🔗 Key Topics: How to grow your glutes without wasting time Hip thrust biomechanics and setup tips Best accessory lifts for glute development Programming strategies for hypertrophy and strength Balancing calorie intake, deficits, and physique goals 📢 Hashtags:#GluteTraining #StrengthTraining #Hypertrophy #FitnessPodcast #HowToGrowYourGlutes PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

In this live Q&A, we unpack one of the most challenging fitness goals: how to get stronger and lose weight at the same time. You’ll hear practical advice on balancing training, diet, and recovery while cutting fat without losing hard-earned muscle. From nutrition strategies to lifestyle and mindset, this episode is designed for lifters who train for strength, health, longevity, and everyday quality of life. ✅ What You’ll Learn How to combine fat loss and strength goals sustainably Key nutrition strategies: protein intake, carb timing, and realistic deficits Training adjustments that preserve muscle while leaning out Why sleep, stress, and recovery are as important as sets and reps Mindset principles that keep lifters consistent long-term ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Q&A kickoff 03:15 – How to get stronger and lose weight (overview) 08:30 – Nutrition priorities for fat loss and strength 14:20 – Smart training adjustments when dieting 21:00 – Balancing hypertrophy and strength goals 26:45 – The role of sleep, stress, and recovery 34:00 – Real-world Q&A: cardio, timelines, and expectations 40:15 – Key takeaways for everyday lifters 🔖 Hashtags (Podcast App Optimized) #HowToGetStrongerAndLoseWeight #StrengthTraining #FatLossForLifters #StrengthWithPurpose #HealthAndLongevity #FitnessPodcast #BarbellLogic #StrengthForLife PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

Ready to compete? In this episode of our Strength With Purpose series, Barbell Logic coaches Niki Sims and Andrew Jackson break down how to train and prepare for a powerlifting meet—from setting your timeline and peaking properly to managing stress, rules, travel, and equipment. You’ll learn how meet prep differs from general strength training, how to avoid common first-time mistakes, and how to approach meet day with clarity and confidence. Whether you're chasing a PR or simply want to step on the platform, this episode is packed with actionable coaching advice for lifters who care about health, strength, longevity, and competing with purpose. ✅ What You’ll Learn How to shift from general strength training to powerlifting competition prep Ideal meet prep timelines (why 6 months is best—but 6 weeks can work) How to peak and taper each lift for maximum results What to expect from rules, weigh-ins, and meet-day logistics How to manage life stress, travel, and realistic expectations The role of strategy, openers, handlers, and pacing on meet day ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: caffeine-free Squirt, dead rats, and deadlifts 02:30 – Ready to compete? Why competition training is different 04:00 – Ideal meet prep timelines: 6 months, 6 weeks, or 6 days 08:00 – Peaking and tapering: testing what works for you 11:00 – Niki’s meet prep: chasing PRs, real-life planning, and equipment updates 16:00 – Weight class strategy: to cut or not to cut? 20:00 – The importance of heavy singles in competition prep 24:00 – Managing fatigue, volume, and travel while training 30:00 – Meet day 101: weigh-ins, warmups, and avoiding burnout 34:00 – Powerlifting vs. weightlifting meet formats explained 37:00 – Attempt selection strategies: 9-for-9 or PR-focused? 39:00 – Final thoughts and where to get coaching help 🧭 Ready to Compete? Begin with the Platform in Mind If you’re ready to compete, the first thing to change is your mindset. Training for a competition isn’t just lifting—it’s lifting with a deadline, under pressure, and by the rules. Lifters who thrive on the platform know that every part of training—from volume and intensity to rest and nutrition—starts to serve one date: meet day. Whether you're still running linear progression or already an intermediate lifter, your training will need to evolve. You’ll shift toward heavier singles, greater specificity, and timed peaks. This episode outlines exactly how and when that shift should happen. 🕰️ The Power of a 6-Month Prep Window Niki and Andrew both agree: six months is the sweet spot for powerlifting prep. This longer runway allows lifters to test peaking strategies, experiment with taper timelines, and handle unexpected life events without derailing progress. But not everyone has six months. So what then? If you're just a few weeks out, don’t panic. You can still prepare—but you’ll need to prioritize heavy singles, reduce volume carefully, and avoid overreaching. Lifters often underestimate how long it takes to recover from stress and fatigue, especially with the deadlift. Learning what your body needs is part of the journey. 🛠️ Equipment, Rules, and Platform Psychology Meet day isn’t the same as gym day. From calibrated plates that feel heavier to pause benches and strict command timing, the competition platform demands precision. Practicing those standards ahead of time is essential. You’ll also need to adjust mentally. Lifters often forget that judges are watching every move. You’ll be lifting in a singlet, in front of a crowd, following a cadence you don’t control. That pressure is real—but manageable—with preparation. Niki shares her own prep experience, from choosing gear to learning the rulebook to re-learning how to lift for a judged audience. ✈️ When Real Life Doesn’t Care About Your Meet Let’s be real: most lifters have jobs, families, and stress that don’t disappear during meet prep. Niki’s own prep includes four major trips—including one during peak week. So how do you keep training? By staying flexible. You don’t need perfection to make progress. Plan around travel. Prioritize sleep. Adjust volume where needed. If you’re in a stressful phase of life, it's okay to shift timelines. The point of training with purpose isn’t to chase flawless execution—it’s to pursue meaningful strength in the midst of real life. 🎯 Meet Day Strategy & Performance The biggest mistake new lifters make? Thinking they’ll just “figure it out” on meet day. From weigh-ins and warmups to food, rest, and timing—there’s a lot to manage. And you can’t just lift when you feel good. You lift when the platform calls your name. That’s why attempt selection and pacing matter. Do you want to go 9-for-9? Hit a lifetime PR? Treat your opener as your last warm-up? Each strategy has trade-offs. A good handler or coach can help. So can a solid plan built around realistic expectations. Meet day success starts long before your first lift—it starts the moment you ask, “Am I ready to compete?” 🔖 Hashtags (Podcast App Optimized) #ReadyToCompete #StrengthTraining #PowerliftingMeet #StrengthWithPurpose #MeetDayTips #LiftingForLife #BarbellLogic #FitnessCoaching #PowerliftingPrep #CompeteWithConfidence PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]

Your training should match your goals — but what happens when those goals go beyond PRs? In this episode of Beast Over Burden, we show you how to adapt strength training for any goal, whether that means balancing swim workouts with barbell lifts, building knee resilience for high-altitude hunting, or nailing the StrongFirst kettlebell snatch test. Through three in-depth case studies, you’ll hear exactly how we adjusted programming to fit real-life demands: Reducing gym volume for a competitive swimmer in peak season Using high-bar squats, pause squats, and rucking to prepare a hunter for steep terrain Prioritizing kettlebell snatch work without sacrificing barbell strength We cover how to use the SAID Principle to match your training to your outcome, what to change in your volume and intensity when another sport takes priority, and how to manage recovery so you can perform when it matters most. Whether you lift for performance, adventure, or everyday life, you’ll walk away knowing how to adapt strength training for any goal without losing the muscle, strength, and motivation you’ve worked hard to build. PS - IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN TAKING ONLINE COACHING FOR A TEST RUN, CHECK IT OUT HERE.  Connect with the hosts Niki on Instagram Andrew on Instagram Connect with the show Barbell Logic on Instagram Podcast Webpage Barbell Logic on Facebook Or email [email protected]