In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I dive deep into the nuances of peak week, conditioning, and what it actually means to show up ready. It’s not just about how you want to look — it’s how you stack up next to others. I break down misunderstood feedback terms like “coming in full” vs. “coming in flat,” and explain how to actually interpret and apply this feedback to improve your showing. I also discuss why most athletes are under-muscled, how judging often hinges on who shows up, and how many competitors ruin their look with last-minute changes. You’ll hear the reality behind show-day outcomes, and why cookie-cutter prep plans fail more often than not.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 02:57] - Introduction: Expectations vs. reality in show prep

- [02:58 – 05:54] - Why your look is judged next to others, not in isolation

- [05:55 – 08:51] - Interpreting feedback: “Coming in full” and “coming in flat”

- [08:52 – 11:48] - How to assess fullness vs. conditioning as an art

- [11:49 – 14:45] - Should you come in flat or full? Best way to decide

- [14:46 – 17:42] - Most athletes are under-muscled: What that means

- [17:43 – 20:39] - Conditioning wins at amateur level, but depends on competitors

- [20:40 – 23:36] - Shifting standards: It depends on who shows up

- [23:37 – 26:33] - The athlete matters more than the plan

- [26:34 – 29:30] - Last-minute changes that ruin physiques

- [29:31 – 32:27] - The psychology behind “doing more” before show day

- [32:28 – 35:24] - Strategy vs. panic: Why timing matters

- [35:25 – 38:21] - Why you should stop comparing yourself to the pros

- [38:22 – 41:18] - Recap: What makes a prep plan fail or succeed

- [41:19 – 44:24] - Final takeaways: Getting smarter with each prep

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

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In this episode, I sat down with Brianny Terry to discuss performance-enhancing drug (PED) use in the bodybuilding space—especially in women’s divisions. We got candid about dosage, risks, and the unspoken sacrifices that come with elite physique development. From the idea of preserving femininity to the reality of internal health concerns, we unpack what it really means to walk the fine line of physical enhancement. Brianny shares how she personally defines her “hard stop,” the value of choice even when it’s not fun, and the realities behind compounds like anavar and winstrol.

This conversation is a must-listen if you’re an athlete considering performance enhancement, a coach looking to support your athletes better, or someone curious about the lived experience behind the physique stage.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 02:00] – Intro to Brianny Terry and the focus of today’s conversation

- [02:00 – 04:32] – Setting the stage: transparency in drug use

- [04:33 – 08:21] – PED usage & anavar dosing: what’s considered moderate or aggressive?

- [08:21 – 11:55] – Navigating femininity in a muscle-forward sport

- [11:56 – 16:15] – Defining boundaries: “What does your hard stop look like?”

- [16:16 – 21:30] – Balancing aesthetic goals with internal health concerns

- [21:31 – 26:40] – Impact of oral steroids on liver health

- [26:41 – 30:58] – Athlete responsibility and self-accountability in enhanced prep

- [30:59 – 34:00] – Developing the ability to “know your why” and commit through discomfort

- [34:01 – 38:00] – Internal resistance: the grind of showing up daily

- [38:01 – 42:00] – Are you doing this for you—or someone else?

- [42:01 – 44:56] – Using Winstrol: benefits, drawbacks, and limitations

- [44:57 – 49:00] – Supplement stacks: when do they help, when do they backfire?

- [49:01 – 52:00] – Decision fatigue and the importance of deloads

- [52:01 – 59:21] – Closing thoughts: redefining success and choosing discomfort

Links & Resources:

Follow Brianny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannyt/?hl=e

https://coryfit.com/

Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

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In this episode, I talk through critical issues around hormone therapy and lab testing, especially for women navigating TRT (testosterone replacement therapy). I break down common pitfalls in provider care, how symptomology is often overlooked, and why proper lab work is a non-negotiable. If you're confused about DHEA, TRT, or the impact of low-fat diets on hormone production, this one’s for you.

I also tackle how to read ovulation signs properly, the role of functional health coaches, and the importance of subjective data in optimizing hormone protocols. We close with tips on adjusting dosages, how libido reflects hormonal balance, and why you should never treat lab ranges like hard rules.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 03:15] - Opening thoughts on lab work and hormone optimization

- [03:15 – 06:30] - When subjective data matters more than lab numbers

- [06:30 – 09:45] - Dangers of improper provider protocols

- [09:45 – 13:00] - Ovulation, cycle tracking, and hormonal accuracy

- [13:00 – 16:15] - Female TRT and understanding where it fits

- [16:15 – 19:30] - The danger of low-fat diets for hormone production

- [19:30 – 22:45] - Functional coaches, DHEA, and questionable care

- [22:45 – 26:00] - Most common TRT missteps in women

- [26:00 – 29:15] - Symptomology vs numbers in diagnosing low testosterone

- [29:15 – 32:30] - TRT administration methods: pros and cons

- [32:30 – 35:45] - The importance of titrating doses correctly

- [35:45 – 39:00] - Libido as a reflection of hormonal health

- [39:00 – 42:15] - Overcorrecting TRT protocols too fast

- [42:15 – 45:30] - Escalation risks in hormone therapy

- [45:30 – 48:46] - Final takeaways: test smarter, not harder

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode of the Self Selecting Podcast, I take a deep dive into Anavar, one of the most commonly discussed and misunderstood oral anabolic steroids in physique sports. Drawing from real experience, we break down the misconceptions, physiological effects, and potential long-term consequences of using Anavar — especially for bikini competitors.

I talk about why "Anavar is harmless" is one of the most dangerous myths, how the fitness industry often misuses it for fat loss, and why your genetics, goals, and timing must dictate its application — if at all. Whether you’re currently cycling or just curious about PEDs in the bodybuilding space, this conversation is a must-listen before making any decisions.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 00:56] – Opening thoughts: real regrets and revisiting Anavar use

- [00:56 – 02:54] – Why “Anavar is harmless” is a dangerous myth

- [02:54 – 05:12] – The direction bikini bodybuilding is going & the PED conversation

- [05:12 – 07:06] – Explaining what Anavar actually is: origin, function, anabolic profile

- [07:06 – 09:08] – Anavar’s real potential: does it help build muscle or burn fat?

- [09:08 – 10:52] – Liver toxicity and why “mild” doesn’t mean safe

- [10:52 – 12:26] – Cardiovascular risk: how Anavar negatively impacts your lipids

- [12:26 – 15:13] – Why an Anavar-only cycle is problematic

- [15:13 – 17:45] – Understanding Anavar’s half-life and timing mistakes

- [17:45 – 20:41] – Using it for fat loss: the industry’s biggest misuse

- [20:41 – 23:27] – The myth of Anavar as a “hardening agent”

- [23:27 – 26:05] – Overdosing and staying on Anavar for too long

- [26:05 – 29:11] – “Should I use Anavar in the off-season?” Pros and cons

- [29:11 – 32:00] – Wrapping up: takeaways for competitors considering PEDs

- [32:00 – 34:04] – Real-world impact vs expectations: why results may disappoint

- [34:04 – 36:15] – Final notes on risk, responsibility, and being honest with your goals

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

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⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I sit down with bikini competitor Elisabet Vang to discuss what it truly takes to isolate and develop the glutes, train with intensity during prep, and avoid common programming mistakes in the bikini division. We dig into why blindly following a plan won’t get you the physique you’re after, how to adjust your training mindset, and what role performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) actually play when paired with suboptimal intensity.

We break down how movement intention, not just movement selection, matters—especially in the context of the hip thrust. Elisabet shares how she's refined her form and effort over time, and we both get honest about what’s required to train like a pro in bikini when the division lacks standardized criteria.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 03:40] - Intro: Meet Elisabet Vang and the training topic at hand

- [03:40 – 07:20] - Program design, progression, and glute isolation philosophy

- [07:20 – 11:00] - Problems with common programming and movement patterns

- [11:00 – 14:40] - Overusing hip thrusts and what’s missing from execution

- [14:40 – 18:20] - Not just what you do—but how you do it (neuromuscular connection)

- [18:20 – 22:00] - What you’ve actually done to isolate glutes

- [22:00 – 25:40] - When the hip thrust becomes a crutch vs a tool

- [25:40 – 29:20] - Getting real with intensity: effort during training

- [29:20 – 33:00] - PED use: it’s not a shortcut if you lack effort

- [33:00 – 36:40] - Form, feel, and focusing too much on a checklist

- [36:40 – 40:20] - Executing during fat loss: intensity matters more

- [40:20 – 44:00] - Lifting heavy when calories are low

- [44:00 – 47:40] - The truth about “standards” in bikini training

- [47:40 – 51:20] - How training individuality matters more than rules

- [51:20 – 55:12] - Final takeaways and building longevity in bikini

Links & Resources:

Follow Elisabet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisabetvang_ifbbpro/?hl=en

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I dive into a comprehensive comparison of the Bikini, Wellness, and Figure divisions, breaking down exactly what makes each category unique. Whether you’re deciding which division to pursue or reevaluating your current path, this episode will help you understand the judging criteria, common misconceptions, and how to assess your own physique realistically.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 02:47] – Intro and setting the stage for division breakdowns

- [02:47 – 05:27] – Bikini: what the judges look for

- [05:27 – 06:48] – Breaking down Wellness structure and shape

- [06:48 – 08:02] – Bikini athletes transitioning to Wellness too soon

- [08:02 – 08:41] – What separates Figure from the rest

- [08:41 – 14:45] – How conditioning varies for each division

- [14:45 – 17:05] – Bikini vs. Wellness: criteria vs. competition realities

- [17:05 – 21:24] – Sacrificing waistlines in pursuit of glutes

- [21:24 – 25:24] – Bikini balance myth and quad vs. glute development

- [25:24 – 28:41] – Comparing muscle mass across Bikini, Wellness, and Figure

- [28:41 – 30:39] – Knowing your ceiling in Figure before transitioning

- [30:39 – 34:00] – How to assess if you’re ready for another division

- [34:00 – 37:00] – Are you actually ready for Wellness or just carrying more fat?

- [37:00 – 39:46] – Embracing discomfort in Wellness and Figure

- [39:46 – 41:52] – The discipline needed to maintain division-level conditioning

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I dive deep into a question many physique-focused individuals face: How much does body fat percentage really matter? From DEXA scans and calipers to at-home smart scales, I break down the science, the myths, and the practicality of various body fat measurement tools.

I also discuss what truly impacts scan results—like sodium, hydration, and the time of day—and why getting too caught up in a number might hurt more than help. If you’ve ever second-guessed a scan or obsessed over lean body mass, this episode is your guide to understanding the data and using it to actually move the needle in your health and fitness goals.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 01:10] - Intro: The confusion around body fat percentage

- [01:10 – 05:50] - Why we obsess over body fat numbers and what to ask instead

- [05:51 – 10:31] - Misconceptions about lean body mass and DEXA scans

- [10:32 – 11:27] - What DEXA really tells you—and what it doesn’t

- [11:28 – 18:22] - BOD POD accuracy and use in real-world settings

- [18:23 – 21:49] - Hydrostatic weighing: gold standard or outdated?

- [21:50 – 23:59] - Calipers: are they still valid in 2024?

- [24:00 – 29:55] - BIA tech: from gyms to doctor’s offices

- [29:56 – 32:34] - At-home scales and MRI/CT scans for tracking fat

- [32:35 – 33:59] - What makes these tools vary so much? (hydration, sodium, time)

- [34:00 – 38:46] - Pitfalls of body scans: tracking wrong data

- [38:47 – 40:31] - How sodium, carbs, and water impact scan readings

- [40:32 – 42:28] - Build a routine for consistency in tracking

- [42:29 – 46:29] - How to track trends, not obsess over numbers

- [46:30 – 48:59] - Spotting when muscle is being lost in a cut

- [49:00 – 52:12] - Final takeaways: stop chasing body fat percentage

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode of the Self Selecting podcast, I sit down with Nick Ridpath to unpack common myths, mistakes, and overcomplications around glute training. From misunderstood exercise programming to improper warm-ups and misguided attachment to weight, we discuss what really matters in developing strong, functional glutes. We also break down common errors in RDLs, share thoughts on hip thrusts, and dive deep into programming around pain, progress, and performance.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 01:29] – Intro and setting the stage for today’s glute-focused conversation

- [01:30 – 05:49] – The truth about “special” glute programs and why simple usually wins

- [05:50 – 08:39] – How overcomplicating movements sabotages glute growth

- [08:40 – 12:41] – Assessment for glute-dominant training and understanding diminishing returns

- [12:42 – 16:41] – Most common RDL mistakes I see and how to fix them

- [16:42 – 20:23] – Managing and preventing lower back pain during RDLs

- [20:24 – 24:44] – Glute pumps ≠ glute growth: what to prioritize instead

- [24:45 – 29:59] – Emotional attachment to heavy weights and its downside

- [30:00 – 31:29] – The warm-up mistake holding your glute training back

- [31:30 – 35:59] – Why smart exercise selection matters more than intensity

- [36:00 – 38:42] – The most overlooked variable in glute-focused programs

- [38:43 – 42:59] – Thoughts on hip thrusts: are they overrated or misunderstood?

- [43:00 – 45:59] – Why I prefer the 45-degree hip extensio

- [46:00 – 50:04] – Training glutes to failure: how far is too far?

- [50:05 – 56:21] – Programming reps, rest, and recovery for real progress

Links & Resources:

Follow Nick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickridpath_/?hl=en

Work With Nick: https://www.unbranded-performance.com/contact

Join The Advisory Membership Portal: https://www.unbranded-performance.com/advisory

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I take a deep dive into evaluating whether the Fit Model division is the right fit for you. From physique structure and muscle mass to fat loss capability and PED stance, I walk you through the exact criteria I use to help competitors make informed decisions. We discuss how your ability to maintain conditioning, previous stage experience, and rate of muscle gain all impact division selection. Whether you're an aspiring competitor or a coach, this episode will give you the clarity you need to align your training and aesthetic goals with the right division.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 02:00] – Intro: What to consider when choosing a competition division

- [02:00 – 06:01] – What makes Fit Model different: Aesthetic and division criteria

- [06:02 – 06:54] – Conditioning expectations in Fit Model and where competitors go wrong

- [06:55 – 09:27] – Judging inconsistencies: Pros penalized vs regional wins from conditioning

- [09:28 – 11:13] – Learning to read between the lines of judge feedback

- [11:14 – 14:19] – Bikini division: Why structure often determines outcome

- [14:20 – 16:00] – Are you too muscular for Bikini? Recognizing physique mismatches

- [16:01 – 18:52] – Have you competed before? Using past experience to assess goals

- [18:53 – 23:14] – How much fat do you need to lose—and how fast can you do it?

- [23:15 – 26:59] – Metabolic rate, dietary fatigue, and ease of fat loss

- [27:00 – 30:00] – Assessing your muscle mass: Are you too big or not big enough?

- [30:01 – 32:52] – How easily do you gain muscle? Training response and growth potential

- [32:53 – 35:14] – PEDs in competition: What is your stance and why it matters

- [35:15 – 39:34] – PED overview: Critical self-assessment questions before deciding

- [39:35 – 43:14] – Psychological readiness and practical decision-making

- [43:15 – 45:46] – Final takeaways: Align your physique, mindset, and goals

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

In this episode, I walk you through the full checklist I use with clients to determine if they’re ready to use PEDs. This isn’t just about physical progress—it’s about mindset, consistency, labs, recovery, and long-term health.

We talk about the real risks of PEDs, including androgenic side effects, fertility complications, and long-term suppression of your hormonal axis. I explain why “maxing out your natural potential” isn’t always black and white, and how I help clients make smarter, slower, and safer decisions when it comes to physique enhancement.

If you’re curious about PEDs but unsure where you stand, this episode gives you the tools to assess your readiness and protect your future.

Timestamps:

- [00:00 – 01:10] – Introduction: Why this conversation matters

- [01:10 – 02:35] – A client’s curiosity about PEDs for aesthetics—not competition

- [02:35 – 04:05] – What PEDs are and how I define “readiness” for them

- [04:05 – 06:00] – Goal clarity: abstract vs concrete physique goals

- [06:00 – 08:11] – The danger of having no clear end point when using PEDs

- [08:11 – 10:05] – How to set physique goals that avoid long-term PED misuse

- [10:05 – 12:14] – The difference between anabolic and non-androgenic PEDs

- [12:14 – 14:21] – Why virilization still happens and how to minimize risk

- [14:21 – 16:34] – “Should I wait to max out my natural potential?”

- [16:34 – 18:36] – PEDs as compensation vs optimization

- [18:36 – 20:43] – The bloodwork baseline: labs you must get done first

- [20:43 – 23:10] – Health red flags and hidden comorbidities to watch for

- [23:10 – 26:22] – Fertility concerns: menstrual cycle, ovulation, egg/sperm preservation

- [26:22 – 30:05] – HPA axis suppression, cycle design, and post-cycle recovery

- [30:05 – 36:39] – Informed consent, when to wait, and making a decision you won’t regret

Links & Resources:

https://coryfit.com/

⁠Coaching: Let's Chat⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/15min

⁠Consults: Book a Call⁠https://calendly.com/coryfit-coaching/one-time-consultation

For more content, follow along:⁠Instagram⁠: https://www.instagram.com/cory_fit/

⁠Patreon⁠: https://patreon.com/CoryFit?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink