In today's episode, we answer listener questions all about STRENGTH TRAINING.

We discuss how a post-mastectomy woman can train toward her first pull-up (spoiler: yes, it’s absolutely possible), and how to use smart progressions like hangs, inverted rows, and eccentrics to build the right kind of strength. We also break down the differences between pull-ups, chin-ups, and neutral-grip variations so you can choose the option that fits your shoulders and your goals.

We dig into the “Pilates body” myth, what Pilates can do well, and why it’s NOT a substitute for progressive overload if your goal is muscle (tone) and strength. We chat about how to avoid losing muscle on a 2-week vacation, when to adjust calories if you’re suddenly less active, and how to approach training to failure without turning every set into a grind.

“Be there and be in it. And be about it. And pay attention. Do the work.”

- Amy Rudolph

“There’s a difference between working out and training. If you have specific goals, you have to train for them.”

- Iris Deadlifts

“All movement is good movement. Is all movement equal movement? No.”

- Meri

This week on Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck:

• Pull-ups vs. chin-ups, an important difference
• Training vs. testing: how progressive programming beats “let’s see if I can do one today”
• Why “lengthening” muscles is marketing, and where Pilates can actually support strength goals
• How to avoid muscle loss on a 2-week vacation
• “Forced to be sedentary” - keep calories steady, or adjust?
• What machines or equipment to focus on when starting
• Progress you can measure: tracking loads, using fractional plates
• How to take sets to (or near) failure, safely and on purpose

Connect with Us:

• Meri on Instagram
• Iris Deadlifts on Instagram
• Amy Rudolph on Instagram
• Together We Are Stronger Group Coaching Community
• Cut the Crap Patreon
• How Fast Does Muscle & Strength Loss Happen When Taking Time Off?
• Managing Nutrition In Unexpected Circumstances & Work Travel

Thanks for tuning in to this week’s episode of Here’s the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don’t Want Life to Suck, where we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

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Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram, Meri on Instagram, and Amy Rudolph on Instagram.