More sets = more gains? Not so fast. In this episode of The Fitness League, we break down a brand-new meta-analysis that challenges the age-old belief that more training volume always leads to better results.

We’ll walk you through what 67 studies revealed about how many sets per muscle group actually lead to optimal hypertrophy and strength—and where doing more can actually backfire.

Whether you’re lifting 3x per week or programming for clients, this is the data-driven breakdown you’ve been waiting for. Learn the sweet spot for per-session volume, the difference between total vs fractional sets, and how to structure your week for max muscle without burning out.

You’ll walk away with clear answers to:

• How many sets per muscle actually lead to growth?

• What’s the best training split for strength and recovery?

• Are you doing too much in one workout?

• Why volume cycling may outperform flat set plans

• How to tell if your training is pushing results—or stalling them

Spoiler: Quality > Quantity. And your nervous system will thank you.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Project B Waiting List

https://quest.lvltncoaching.com/project-b

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Training Volume 02:47 The Science Behind Volume and Hypertrophy 05:42 Understanding Sets: Direct, Fractional, and Total 08:27 Hypertrophy vs. Strength: The Set Debate 11:08 Finding the Sweet Spot in Training Volume 14:18 Efficiency in Training: Avoiding Junk Volume 17:18 Personal Experiences and Misconceptions in Training 20:26 Understanding Strength vs. Hypertrophy 24:39 The Importance of Intensity in Training 27:50 Quality Over Quantity in Workouts 29:28 Real World Application of Training Volume 33:28 Optimal Training Splits for Muscle Groups 36:23 Training Frequency and Adaptation 37:37 Balancing Strength and Cardio 40:10 The Importance of Recovery 44:16 Volume and Individuality in Training 47:59 Psychological Aspects of Training 49:49 Volume Cycling and Programming Strategies 53:29 Final Takeaways and Project Updates

In this Q+A episode, we’re breaking down the real answers to the questions so many women are Googling at 2 a.m. (and not getting straight answers on). We’re covering everything from gestational diabetes to HRV, postpartum recovery, and how your menstrual cycle actually affects your workouts.

Here’s the truth: you don’t need fear-based advice, shame-loaded commentary, or influencers selling you false promises. You need real science, practical guidance, and coaches who understand your lived experience.

We dive into:

• Why gestational diabetes is hormonal, not your fault — and how nutrition plays a powerful role in managing it

• How to interpret your heart rate variability and what it actually means for stress, recovery, and performance

• The power of incline walking for cardio (spoiler: it counts more than you think)

• Why glute training isn’t just for the #bootyband crowd — it’s critical for posture, strength, and long-term function

• Electrolytes, hydration, and how to fuel pre & post workout (especially during pregnancy or postpartum)

• How your menstrual cycle shifts your training capacity — and how to stop forcing it when your body says no

• The truth about postpartum recovery: why gradual progression beats rushing back into your old routine

• And more unfiltered insights about building a strong body through every phase of womanhood

Whether you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, deep in your training journey, or just trying to navigate all the changes that come with womanhood — this episode is packed with grounded advice that meets you where you are.

Because your health journey isn’t linear — and it definitely isn’t one-size-fits-all.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Project B Waiting List

https://quest.lvltncoaching.com/project-b

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Gestational Diabetes 02:55 Nutrition Tips for Pregnancy 05:25 Exploring Heart Rate Variability 09:21 Cardio and Incline Walking 11:56 Addressing Lower Back Pain 14:49 Glute Training Essentials 17:36 Cycle Syncing and Exercise 20:13 Navigating Family Food Dynamics 22:15 Setting Boundaries with Food in Shared Living Spaces 28:52 Understanding Electrolyte Timing for Optimal Performance 36:12 Navigating Postpartum Fitness and Recovery 43:30 Embracing the Journey of Change and Growth

Feeling like fitness has taken over your life? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re breaking down a mindset shift that changed everything for us: fitness isn’t your life—it’s how you live your life.

We’ll share: ✔️ Why turning health into a full-time job backfires for most busy adults ✔️ How to stop chasing perfection and start using fitness as a tool to enhance your real life ✔️ What training and nutrition look like for us right now as parents, business owners, and normal humans ✔️ How social media’s “fitspiration” trap convinces you you’re failing—and why that’s a lie ✔️ Practical ways to reframe your goals to make progress without burnout

If you’re tired of feeling like you’re either all-in or failing, this episode will help you simplify your health routine, reclaim your identity, and build fitness into your life without letting it take over.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Project B Waiting List

https://quest.lvltncoaching.com/project-b

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters:

00:00 The Identity Trap of Fitness 02:36 Personal Journeys: From Obsession to Balance 05:39 Health vs. Aesthetics: A Journey of Healing 08:43 The Role of Desperation in Health Protocols 11:28 Finding Balance in Health and Fitness 13:59 The Extremes of Health: A Cautionary Tale 17:06 Relearning Health: The Path to Recovery 20:26 Coaching: A GPS for Your Health Journey 23:17 The Reality of Fitness Influencers 26:25 Creating Sustainable Health Routines 34:45 Understanding the Purpose of Content Consumption 35:12 Daily Routines: Training and Nutrition Breakdown 38:41 Mindset and Journaling Practices 41:57 Adapting to Life's Challenges: Balancing Family and Fitness 50:47 Creating Non-Negotiables for Success 54:53 Project B: Building a Community and Future Tools

In this practical and myth-busting Q&A episode, we’re answering your most pressing questions about fat loss, pregnancy nutrition, and supplementation. Whether you're just starting your fitness journey, navigating early pregnancy, or dialing in your recovery supplements, this episode has the no-nonsense answers you need.

We cover: ✔️ Does lifting light weights for high reps help you lose fat? We break down the truth about training for fat loss and why old-school advice might be slowing your progress ✔️ How to calculate protein intake during pregnancy—especially when dealing with nausea and low appetite in the first trimester ✔️ Should you mix creatine immediately before drinking it? We explain the science behind creatine stability, solubility, and how to get the most from your daily dose

This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you train smarter, fuel better, and cut through the fitness industry noise.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Project B Waiting List

https://quest.lvltncoaching.com/project-b

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Girls Club 03:00 Nostalgia and Parenting 06:00 Understanding Creatine: Myths and Facts 09:00 Injury Alternatives: Deadlifts and Back Care 12:40 Core Work During Pregnancy 15:39 Adapting Workouts for Injuries 18:48 Project B: A Sneak Peek 19:55 Pregnancy and Nutrition Tracking 20:18 Navigating Pregnancy Nutrition 22:42 Debunking Fitness Myths 25:47 Understanding Postpartum Nutrition 29:13 Injury Recovery and Alternative Workouts 32:40 Postpartum Fat Loss and Milk Supply 38:06 Exploring Peptides and Supplements 40:17 Joint Pain and Postpartum Recovery

Most people are stuck chasing trends that don’t work. In this episode, we break down 5 science-backed health optimization protocols that actually move the needle. From sauna and heat shock proteins to red light therapy, hypoxia training (including blood flow restriction), and breathwork — these are the proven ‘health extracurriculars’ used by top performers to amplify recovery, longevity, and mental clarity.

We’ll unpack:

• How sauna use triggers cellular repair via heat shock proteins.

• Why red light therapy supercharges your mitochondria.

• How hypoxia can boost endurance, stem cell production, and metabolic health.

• The underestimated power of breathwork for your nervous system.

• And a bonus deep dive into hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Forget gimmicks. These are tools that work.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Project B Waiting List

https://quest.lvltncoaching.com/project-b

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Health Optimization Extracurriculars 02:02 The Importance of Foundational Health 05:03 Exploring Sauna Therapy 18:49 Diving into Red Light Therapy 23:59 Exploring Red Light Therapy Claims 36:07 Understanding Hypoxia Training and Its Benefits

You train hard. You eat well. You take care of yourself. So why does it sometimes feel like your body is aging faster, not better?

In this episode, we’re breaking down two powerful — and often misunderstood — concepts: biological age and your pace of aging. We’ll explain what they actually mean, the science behind the metrics that influence them (like HRV, resting heart rate, and sleep), and how they reflect what’s really going on inside your body.

Whether you track this data with a wearable like WHOOP or not, the protocols we share today will help you slow down the clock and build a stronger, sharper, more resilient version of yourself — one habit at a time.

You’ll learn:

• The difference between biological age and pace of aging

• What metrics like HRV, RHR, and respiratory rate actually tell you

• How your training, sleep, and stress habits shape your aging process

• A reset protocol to drop your pace of aging this week

• Supplements and lifestyle tools to support long-term longevity

Because aging better doesn’t happen by accident — it happens when you show up with intention.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Biological Age and Aging Pace 02:50 The Role of Wearable Tech in Tracking Aging 06:02 Key Metrics for Assessing Aging 08:31 The Importance of Sleep and Recovery 11:19 Nutrition's Impact on Aging 15:07 Exercise and Its Effects on Biological Age 18:13 Lifestyle Factors Influencing Aging 20:59 Strategies to Lower Biological Age 23:43 The Role of Supplements in Aging 26:28 Final Thoughts on Aging and Longevity

In this week’s Q+A, we’re tackling your wide-ranging questions—from performance nutrition to endurance training quirks. Whether you're trying to elevate your recovery, improve your running, or level up your smoothie game, this episode delivers real answers with zero fluff.

We cover: ✔️ Plant-based smoothie boosters — beyond spirulina and chlorella: what other greens, roots, and functional plants can help you get more nutrient diversity in your day? ✔️ Why your legs feel heavy during slow runs — the science behind why Zone 2 training can feel harder than tempo running, and what to do about it ✔️ Creatine powder vs. gummy — does the form matter? We break down the absorption, quality, and what to watch out for before picking your supplement

This is the episode for anyone wanting smarter strategies in training, recovery, and everyday habits—without getting lost in the noise.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Body Composition and Weight Loss 02:49 The Role of Liposuction in Fitness 05:47 Choosing Quality Supplements 08:43 The Impact of Music on Workout Motivation 11:13 Tracking Progress: Body Scans and Measurements 15:12 Navigating Fitness During Pregnancy 18:51 Understanding Cardio and Heart Rate Adaptation 21:56 The Importance of Mobility and Pelvic Floor Health 24:38 Encouraging Movement in Loved Ones 26:29 Navigating Pregnancy Fitness Programs 28:41 Power Hours and Coaching Options 31:47 Exploring Fitness Programs and Their Benefits 35:15 Addressing Running Challenges and Gait Issues

Most people think they need to break bad habits and build new ones from scratch. But that’s not how your brain works. In this episode, we flip that whole narrative on its head.

We’re unpacking the truth: habits can’t be destroyed—only transformed. And if you’ve been stuck in the cycle of starting strong and falling off, this is probably why.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why habits are wired into your brain (and how they protect you)

• The myth of “breaking” habits—and what to do instead

• Our 4-step transformation method for turning bad habits into better ones

• How to actually rewire your behavior in a way that sticks

Whether you're trying to stop stress eating, scroll less, or finally stay consistent with your workouts—this episode gives you the tools to make it happen.

Because willpower fades. But systems win.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters:

00:00 Transforming Habits for Long-Term Success 02:42 Understanding the Science of Habits 02:43 Building Systems for Better Habits 08:54 The Importance of Starting Early 10:33 Navigating the Comparison Trap 14:57 Making Incremental Changes 16:25 Finding Enjoyment in Exercise 18:22 Short and Efficient Workouts 23:19 The Power of Movie Quotes 23:52 Transforming Bad Habits: The Four-Step Process 24:57 Understanding Habit Loops 26:11 Real-Life Examples of Habit Replacement 27:11 Procrastination as a Tool for Change 28:14 Mindful Eating and Distraction Techniques 31:19 The Importance of Replacement in Habit Change 31:46 Breaking Down the Habit Transformation Framework 34:32 Habit Stacking for Success 36:56 Common Pitfalls in Habit Change 44:47 The Mindset Shift: Embracing Imperfection 47:26 Recap and Action Steps for Habit Transformation

In this Q+A episode, we’re answering your real-life questions around balancing training with a busy life, staying on track while traveling, and navigating fitness trends that have popped up online.

We cover: ✔️ Split workouts — is it okay to break up your training into separate sessions throughout the day? What are the pros, cons, and key things to watch for? ✔️ Cardio and compound lifts — how to structure your workout days when you’re limited on time but still want results ✔️ Naval pulling — yes, it’s a real thing, and yes, we’ll break down what it’s about and whether it deserves your attention ✔️ Fitness on vacation — from bringing dumbbells to setting realistic expectations, we share our top tips for staying active without killing the vibe

This episode is perfect for those trying to maintain momentum without letting perfectionism or social pressure get in the way.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters:

00:00 Staying on Track During Vacation 03:00 Workout Splitting: Is It Effective? 05:46 Nutrition and Muscle Fatigue 08:18 Protein Powder Insights 10:57 Wearables and Step Tracking Accuracy 14:40 Body Image and Postpartum Changes 17:27 Homeschooling Perspectives 20:08 Intro Workout Fueling Strategies

In this episode of the Fitness League, hosts Josh, Alessandra, and Joelle discuss the transformative experience of cold plunging, the challenges of balancing parenting with personal wellness, and the importance of maintaining in-person community connections. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with cold plunges, the benefits of tracking recovery through heart rate variability (HRV), and the complexities of navigating social media as entrepreneurs. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication within family dynamics and the need to prioritize mental health during busy seasons of life.

Takeaways:

Cold plunging can be a transformative experience. The cold is a tool for mental and physical resilience. Maintaining in-person community connections is vital for mental health. Balancing parenting and work requires clear communication. It's important to prioritize self-care and mental health. Social media can be both a tool and a distraction. Tracking recovery metrics like HRV can provide insights into wellness. Seasons of life require different priorities and boundaries. It's okay to say no to social obligations for personal well-being. Creating a supportive network can enhance personal and professional growth.

APPLY FOR COACHING:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/1-1-coaching

SDE Method app:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/sde-method-app

Macros Guide

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/free-resources/calculate-your-macros

Join the Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/lvltncoaching

FREE TOOLS to start your health and fitness journey:

https://www.lvltncoaching.com/resources/freebies

Alessandra's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/alessandrascutnik

Joelle's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/joellesamantha?igsh=ZnVhZjFjczN0OTdn

Josh's Instagram:

http://instagram.com/joshscutnik

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Cold Plunge Challenge 02:46 The Experience of Cold Plunging 05:49 Adrenaline and Cold Plunge Dynamics 08:40 The Aftermath: Energy and Recovery 11:20 Data Insights: HRV and Cold Exposure 14:56 Parenting Insights and Lessons Learned 17:55 Navigating Parenting Challenges 19:09 Family Connections and Nature 23:41 The Importance of Digital Detox 29:18 Balancing Work and Family Life 35:10 Communicating Needs in Parenting 40:55 Reflections on Family Dynamics