152: Why Ex-Athletes Gain Weight After Sports (and How to Fix It For Good)

You used to crush two-a-days, eat whatever you wanted, and still stay lean. But now? The workouts are inconsistent, the scale keeps creeping up, and nothing seems to work the way it used to. In this episode, I break down exactly why ex-athletes struggle with a slower metabolism after sport—and more importantly, the proven strategies to reset your body, burn fat, and feel athletic again.We’ll cover:Why your metabolism isn’t “broken”—but it is adaptedThe biggest mistakes ex-athletes make when trying to get back in shapeHow to eat MORE (not less) to fire up your metabolismThe training shifts you need to make to actually see results againIf you’ve ever thought, “What happened to my body after I stopped playing?”—this episode will finally give you the answers and the plan forward.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

Is cardio really killing your gains? Or can you actually run and build muscle at the same time? In this episode, Madie and Baylee break down why strength training is the foundation no matter your goal — whether it’s toning up, running faster, or just feeling strong in everyday life. We tackle the myths about cardio, explain how it can support your goals instead of sabotaging them, and share exactly how to balance lifting with running without burning out. If you’ve ever wondered how much cardio is too much, this one’s for you.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

From beauty hacks to binge-worthy shows and the snacks we’re currently living for, Baylee and I are spilling all our latest obsessions. Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

Step by step process on how to finally get in shape and feel your best.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

In this episode, Baylee and Madie get real about binge eating — why it happens, how to stop, and what actually works. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of “I’ll start over Monday,” this one’s for you. Expect tough love, real strategies, and the mindset shift you need to break free for good.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

Feel like you’ve tried everything but still aren’t seeing results? You’re probably not eating too much… you’re just eating the wrong way for your body. In this episode, I’m breaking down Macros 101 — what they are, why they matter, and how to start tracking without becoming obsessive, burnt out, or bored of your food.Whether you’re brand new to tracking or you’ve tried before and quit, this episode will give you the truth about fat loss, food freedom, and fueling your body the right way. No more guessing. No more starving. Just real talk, real strategy, and real results.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

In this episode, Baylee and I break down how we stay consistent with our goals without skipping out on fun. Whether it's a girls' night, a weekend trip, or just dinner out — you don't have to choose between results and real life. We’re talking strategy, mindset, and what actually works when it comes to living your healthiest life without sacrificing your social life.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

In this episode, Madie and Baylee break down why real meals are the key to staying full, hitting your protein goals, and actually seeing fat loss results. If you're sick of constantly being hungry, struggling to hit your protein, or just confused on what counts as a real meal… this one’s for you.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

Heading into the 4th of July wondering how you’re supposed to stay on track without skipping all the fun?In this episode, Madie and Baylee are breaking down their real-life strategies for navigating holidays like the 4th — without spiraling, starting over, or feeling guilty. We’re giving you practical tips to enjoy the food, the drinks, the parties, and still wake up the next day feeling proud and on track.We cover:What to eat before the BBQHow to handle alcohol without overdoing itWhat NOT to do the day afterWhy restriction always backfiresOur go-to mindset for staying consistent through any holiday🎆 If you want a balanced, realistic approach to fitness that actually fits your lifestyle — this episode is for you.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581

Are you stuck wondering whether you should be eating more to fix your metabolism… or cutting calories to lose fat?In this episode, I break down the difference between reverse dieting and going into a calorie deficit, and exactly how to know which one is right for you based on your body, your habits, and your goals.You’ll learn:What a reverse diet actually is (and what it’s not)Signs your metabolism is downregulatedWhen a calorie deficit is actually not the moveHow to transition out of chronic dietingThe #1 mistake women make when trying to lose fatI also share what I personally did to heal my metabolism and how I coach my clients through both phases for sustainable, long-term results.🚨 Spoiler: If you’ve been under-eating, over-training, or stuck at the same weight despite trying everything… this episode will be a game-changer.Tik tok: @madie_BunkerIG: @madie_bunkerBaylee:Ig: @baydelauriApply for our 1:1 coaching here: https://www.strong4life.online/program-5362-1368-1696-6972-2258-3581