Blogs & Articles
Individualization in Training: Important, But Not Everything
When it comes to exercise, individualization often gets praised as the most important principle—but the truth is more balanced. Yes, everyone is unique: age, genetics, training history, and injuries all influence how you respond to workouts. But despite these differences, the fundamentals of human movement and adaptation remain the same. We all squat, hinge, push, pull, rotate, and carry. Muscles grow when challenged progressively, and cardiovascular systems improve with consistent effort. What changes is not the movement itself, but the intensity, load, or variation that suits your current ability. The key is to individualize enough to respect personal needs while never losing sight of the universal foundations that apply to all humans. This article explores why chasing hyper-personalized training isn’t necessary for most lifters, and why mastering the basics—movement, progression, and recovery—will take you further than endlessly seeking a “perfect” plan.
Why Variety Matters in Fitness: The Principle of Variation
Doing the same workout every week may feel safe, but it often leads to plateaus, boredom, or even injury. That’s where the principle of variation comes in. By making smart changes to your exercises, intensity, and training style, you can keep your body adapting and your motivation high. In this post, we explain why variation matters, how to apply it without losing focus, and why it’s especially important for older adults. Whether your goal is strength, endurance, or general fitness, learning how to rotate and refresh your workouts will help you stay consistent and see results for the long haul.
Why One-Size-Fits-All Training Doesn’t Work: The Principle of Individualization
Ever wonder why the same workout plan works wonders for your friend but leaves you stuck? That’s the principle of individualization at work—fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your genetics, age, lifestyle, and goals all affect how your body responds to training. In this post, we explain why cookie-cutter programs often fail, how to recognize what works for you, and practical steps to tailor your training. Whether you’re new to exercise, a seasoned lifter, or an older adult looking to stay strong, understanding individualization will help you maximize progress and avoid frustration.
The Science of Progress: How to Keep Getting Stronger Without Burning Out
Progressive overload is the principle that keeps you getting stronger over time. Learn the science behind it, practical ways to apply it, and the common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lifter, this guide will help you train smarter and make steady gains.
Reversibility in Fitness: Use It or Lose It
Fitness progress isn’t permanent—it follows the principle of reversibility, often called “use it or lose it.” When training stops, strength, endurance, and flexibility begin to fade, sometimes within weeks. Endurance declines the fastest, while muscle strength and size stick around longer but aren’t immune. Older adults may lose fitness more quickly, but they also benefit greatly from even small amounts of consistent exercise. The good news? Muscle memory means regaining lost progress is much easier the second time. In this post, we break down how reversibility works, what factors affect it, and simple strategies to slow down fitness loss during busy schedules, vacations, or injury.
Why Training Specific to Your Goals Matters More Than You Think
Specificity is one of the most important principles in training: you get better at what you practice. Learn the science behind the SAID principle, common myths, and how to align your workouts with your goals—so you can see faster progress whether you’re chasing strength, endurance, or long-term health.
The Problem with “Dirty” Calorie & Nutrition Calculators: Why Your Numbers Might Be Lying to You
Calorie and macro calculators promise precision, but most rely on rough estimates and assumptions. This post breaks down why those numbers can be off—and how fitness enthusiasts can use calculators smarter to fine-tune their nutrition without getting misled by “dirty” data. Perfect for anyone serious about lifting, cutting, or building lean muscle.
The Truth About Training Intensity: How Hard Should You Really Be Working Out?
Training intensity is how hard you’re working in each workout—and getting it right is key to building strength safely. This guide explains what intensity really means, how to measure it with the RPE scale, and how to safely increase effort without risking injury. Perfect for beginners and everyday lifters who want smart, effective workouts that deliver results without burnout.
The Truth About Training Volume: A Simple Guide for Everyday Lifters
Training volume might sound complicated, but it’s simply the total work you do in each workout. This beginner-friendly guide explains how many sets and reps you really need, when to add more, and how to avoid overtraining. Learn the “just right” amount of work to build strength safely and keep making progress week after week.
The Best Beginner-Friendly Gym Equipment (And How to Use It)
Starting strength training? Here’s the best beginner-friendly free weight equipment—and how to use it safely.
Strength Training for Beginners Over 50: How to Start Safely
Thinking about starting strength training after 50? Here’s how to begin safely, build confidence, and feel stronger every day.
Maximal Recoverable Training Volume & Minimal Effective Training Volume
Coach Pierce discusses workout training volume. How much training is too much? What is not enough training? And how much you should be doing in your workout.
Muscle Hypertrophy: Intro
Unlock the secrets of muscle growth with our guide to hypertrophy. Learn how to train, eat, and recover effectively to build your ideal physique. Get the science-backed tips you need.
How To Read A Food Label
What to look for when reading a food label? How do you read a food label? Coach Pierce covers the most important things about reading a food label.
The Truth About Calories
Is a calorie a calorie? Coach Pierce dives into this nutrition concept for all of his personal training clients.
How To Start Your Running Plan
Starting a running plan can be tricky. But coach Pierce has all the tips you need to start running and reach the end of your running plan.