Synopsis
The Garage Gym Athlete Podcast was born from a community of underground athletes you've probably never heard of before. The idea for this show stemmed from Jerred Moon, the creator of Garage Gym Athlete programming, when he would do weekly coaching calls with Garage Gym Athletes. He found each athlete had such a unique story, an inspirational journey, and had overcome their own set of challenges that could help impact other athletes...but only if the stories could be told to all. The athletes all have a diverse background; some from Powerlifting, CrossFit, Olympic Lifting, Endurance Training, Military Operators, Collegiate Athletes, Spartan Racers, Obstacle Course Racers, and many other forms of physical training. It takes the experience of these athletes braving the extreme heat, bitter cold, early mornings, and late nights to tackle their training and become athletes. This podcast is for Garage Gym Athletes and by Garage Gym Athletes. Athletes share their experience (whether a beginner or advanced), share their knowledge, and give us a glimpse into the life of a Garage Gym Athlete!! We all know the gym SUCKS...And it comes with a long commute, crowds of people, occupied equipment, and much worse...Also, home fitness SUCKS...Because the treadmill becomes a clothing rack...Or you spend an hour with a DVD jumping around in your living room...But we're changing the game...By providing the other guy (who's strapped for time) with intelligent training to help them perform and look like an athlete. Our aim is for this podcast to inspire your own Garage Gym journey and to pick up as much as you can from other Garage Gym Athletes who are crushing it!! We'll help you find out why people like Jocko Willink, Tim Ferriss, Rich Froning, Joe DeSena, and Mathew Fraser are all training in their garage.
Episodes
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What's Quietly Killing Your Performance | 333
09/03/2026 Duration: 40minSummary In this episode, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss their recent training updates, the Daily Over Decades challenge, and common performance killers. They share insights on maintaining consistency during travel, the impact of supplements like creatine, and nutrition strategies for optimal performance. Key Topics Daily Over Decades Challenge updates Sneaky performance killers in training Effects of creatine on strength and endurance Nutrition and blood sugar management Strategies for maintaining consistency during travel Additional Topics training challenge, performance killers, creatine, nutrition, consistency, fitness updates, garage gym Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Daily Over Decades Challenge 04:40 – February Performance Update 13:37 – Navigating Challenges and Performance Killers 20:36 – The Impact of Carbohydrate Reduction 23:00 – Balancing Carbs and Performance 25:46 – Understanding Blood Sugar and Health 29:06 – Nutrition and Performance in Daily Life 30:58 – Accessory Work and Strength Trainin
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How To Run Longer WITHOUT Getting Tired | 332
02/03/2026 Duration: 39minEpisode Summary: In this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave break down how to run longer without fatigue. They unpack five proven strategies that improve endurance and delay exhaustion: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) Strength Training Lactate Threshold Training Smart Pacing Hydration and Nutrition Backed by scientific research and real-world experience, this episode emphasizes a balanced training approach that blends intensity, recovery, and intelligent programming. Keywords: running, endurance, HIIT, strength training, lactate threshold, pacing, hydration, carbohydrates, fatigue, performance Key Takeaways: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) improves endurance and running economy. Heavy strength training enhances performance and reduces fatigue. Lactate threshold training improves metabolic efficiency. Smart pacing strategies like negative splits conserve energy. Hydration and nutrition delay fatigue during prolonged efforts. Recovery is often the missing piece
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Chasing Speed and Strength Simultaneously? Here's the Problem for Hybrid Athletes | 330
23/02/2026 Duration: 36minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave delve into the concept of concurrent training, which combines strength and aerobic training. They discuss a recent study on concurrent training, exploring its effects on muscle protein synthesis and hypertrophy. The conversation covers personal experiences with concurrent training, the interference effect, and the importance of proper programming and nutrition. They emphasize the need for athletes to set clear performance goals and the significance of recovery in achieving those goals. The episode concludes with insights on how to effectively approach hybrid athlete training. Takeaways Concurrent training is essential for overall fitness. The interference effect can impact strength and endurance. Proper programming is crucial for concurrent training success. Nutrition plays a vital role in hybrid athlete training. Setting clear performance goals helps in training. Recovery is as important as training itself. Hypertrophy can be achieved while
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Your Brain Is Limiting Your Strength & Endurance Gains | 329
16/02/2026 Duration: 42minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss the concept of brain endurance training and its significance in enhancing physical performance. They share personal experiences and insights on how mental resilience can impact athletic performance, particularly in high-pressure situations. The conversation delves into scientific studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of cognitive load during physical training and offers practical applications for garage gym athletes. The hosts emphasize the importance of pushing through mental fatigue and embracing challenges to foster growth and resilience in both training and daily life. Takeaways Brain endurance training can significantly enhance physical performance. Mental resilience is crucial for success in high-pressure environments. Cognitive load during workouts can improve endurance and strength. Training when mentally fatigued can build mental toughness. The Stroop test is an effective method for brain endurance training. Incorp
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Athletes: Drink More Coffee. Live Longer. (New Scientific Study) | 328
09/02/2026 Duration: 41minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave delve into the complexities of coffee consumption, particularly its effects on health and performance. They discuss a study involving over 40,000 participants that examines the relationship between coffee drinking patterns and mortality risks. The conversation shifts to personal experiences with caffeine, its role in training, and reflections on fitness regrets, emphasizing the importance of moderation and understanding individual health habits.
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This is what Consistency ACTUALLY Looks Like | 327
02/02/2026 Duration: 49minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss the importance of consistency in fitness, particularly through their 300 Challenge. They share insights from the community, strategies for maintaining daily and weekly training goals, and the significance of front-loading workouts. The conversation also covers the epic version of the challenge, which includes additional volume and step goals, and how to effectively track and adjust these metrics. The hosts emphasize the need for intentionality in workouts and the benefits of community support in achieving fitness goals. Takeaways Consistency is key for success in fitness challenges. Breaking down goals into manageable chunks helps maintain motivation. Daily habits, like hitting 300 calories, can be challenging but rewarding. Front loading workouts can provide a buffer for busy weeks. Community support plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency. Tracking volume and steps can help in achieving fitness goals. Kettlebell exercis
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Maximize Your Fitness: The Power of Heart Rate Zones | 326
26/01/2026 Duration: 47minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete Podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave dive deep into the concept of zone training, focusing on how to effectively utilize heart rate zones for optimal fitness and performance. They discuss the importance of calculating maximum heart rate accurately, emphasizing that understanding your max heart rate is crucial for effective zone training. The conversation highlights the various heart rate zones, from recovery (Zone 1) to high-intensity efforts (Zone 5), and the benefits and drawbacks of each zone. Jerred and Dave also critique the overemphasis on Zone 2 training, arguing that while it is beneficial for building an aerobic base, it should not dominate an athlete's training regimen. Instead, they advocate for a balanced approach that incorporates all zones to enhance overall performance and fitness. Takeaways: Zone training is essential for improving overall fitness and performance. Calculating your maximum heart rate accurately is crucial for effective training. Zone 2 is im
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Light Exposure and Athletic Performance. Kettlebell vs. Barbell. | 325
19/01/2026 Duration: 43minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss the effects of light exposure on athletic performance, focusing on a study involving elite athletes. They explore the benefits of morning light and the importance of avoiding screens before bedtime. The conversation shifts to the significance of morning routines, practical ways to implement light exposure, and the role of technology in managing light. They also delve into the debate between kettlebell and barbell training, emphasizing the importance of nutrition and timing in relation to sleep quality and overall performance. The episode concludes with thoughts on training equipment choices and the impact of light and food on circadian rhythms.
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2-Year Study Finds 5 Hours of Weekly Exercise with High Intensity Reversed Aging of the Heart | 324
12/01/2026 Duration: 42minIn this episode, Jerred Moon and Dave discuss a recent study that explores the effects of high-intensity training on cardiac health over two years. They delve into the study's methodology, participant selection, and the significant findings that suggest it's never too late to start exercising. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consistency, adherence to training protocols, and the role of heart rate monitoring. They also share insights on how to track progress effectively and maintain motivation through the Daily Over Decades challenge. Takeaways Two years of high-intensity training can reverse cardiac aging. Participants were sedentary adults aged 45-64, emphasizing inclusivity. An adherence rate of 88% over two years is remarkable. Consistency in training is crucial for long-term health benefits. Zone training and heart rate monitoring enhance workout effectiveness. Flexibility in training methods can improve adherence and enjoyment. Warm-ups and cool-downs are essential for overall health and p
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The Real Reason Your Testosterone Levels are Plummeting Right Now (and what to do about it) | 323
05/01/2026 Duration: 34minIn this episode, we tackle the wild claims about plummeting "low testosterone" levels and what it means for "men's health". We dive into the "social media" frenzy surrounding "hormones" and discuss whether these headlines truly offer useful "health tips". Join us as we cut through the noise and talk about what's really happening. 00:00 The Decline of Testosterone Levels 07:15 Understanding Measurement Changes in Testosterone 14:38 Lifestyle Factors Impacting Testosterone 21:37 Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals and Their Effects 28:38 Practical Steps for Improving Testosterone Levels
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Consistently Choosing the Hard Right Over the Easy Wrong with Dave Paczkowski | 322
29/12/2025 Duration: 33minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave explore the idea of consistently choosing the hard right over the easy wrong across fitness, business, family, and life. Using Dave's story and the philosophy behind Garage Gym Athlete as the backdrop, they discuss why long-term alignment, daily discipline, and values-driven decisions matter more than quick wins or short-term optimization. The conversation reinforces that real progress is built through consistency, self-awareness, and intentional choices made over years, not through hacks or intensity spikes. At its core, the episode challenges listeners to commit to the long game and become the kind of person who shows up—especially when it's harder, not easier. 00:00 Why This Episode Exists: Choosing the Long Game 02:10 Dave's Background and the Foundations of Discipline 05:45 Education vs. Self-Education and Owning Your Growth 09:20 Leaving Comfort: Moves, Risk, and Alignment 13:40 Marriage, Family, and Letting Constraints Sharpen You 18:3
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Forget 75 Hard...Try a REAL Challenge (Daily Over Decades) | 321
22/12/2025 Duration: 32minIn this episode of the Garage Gym Athlete podcast, Jerred and Dave discuss the Daily Over Decades challenge, a unique fitness initiative designed to promote long-term consistency and sustainable habits. They delve into the structure of the challenge, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic goals and maintaining accountability. The conversation also introduces the new Epic Challenge, which adds additional layers of complexity and engagement. Throughout the discussion, the hosts highlight the significance of community support, tracking progress, and integrating fitness into daily life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Daily Over Decades Challenge 03:00 Understanding the Challenge Structure 05:57 Consistency and Accountability in Fitness 09:06 The Importance of Setting Realistic Goals 11:59 Prizes and Community Engagement 14:57 Introducing the Epic Challenge 20:58 Tracking Progress and Volume 26:48 Mindset and Long-Term Fitness Success
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Should Hybrid Athletes Use ChatGPT for Workouts? | 320
15/12/2025 Duration: 46minIn this episode, Jerred and Dave discuss the implications of using ChatGPT for workout programming. They explore the limitations of AI in creating personalized training plans, particularly for advanced athletes. The conversation delves into specific examples, such as the Murph workout, and highlights the importance of volume, recovery, and community in fitness. Ultimately, they emphasize that while AI can assist in programming, it cannot replace the value of human experience and community support in achieving fitness goals. 00:00 Introduction to Chat GPT and Workout Programming 02:40 Challenges with Chat GPT in Personalized Programming 05:49 Evaluating Chat GPT's Workout Programs 08:35 Analyzing Specific Workouts for Murph Training 11:25 Strength and Conditioning Insights 14:18 Murph Simulation and Its Effectiveness 17:09 Final Thoughts on Chat GPT vs. Human Programming 23:51 Understanding the Importance of Strength and Conditioning 28:00 Analyzing a Training Program: The First Week Breakdown 33:29 The Nuanc
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Why I Almost Quit Garage Gym Athlete (and Why I am Coming Back) | 319
08/12/2025 Duration: 22minGarage Gym Athlete is not going anywhere. In this episode I talk directly to the Garage Gym Athlete community about where I've been, how getting injured and burned out pulled me away, and why I'm going all in again for 2026. If you train in a home gym and believe in daily over decades, this is your invite to lock back in, rebuild with us, and make Garage Gym Athlete the best home gym community on the planet.
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The LAST Calisthenics Program You Will Ever Need | 318
24/11/2025 Duration: 42minUnlock the most practical and effective calisthenics program for building real-world strength, endurance, and resilience. In this episode, we break down Strike Zero — a bodyweight system designed to rapidly improve pull-ups, push-ups, lower-body stamina, and conditioning using simple rules and smart progression. You'll learn how the Strike Zero method works, why strict rest periods matter, and how to tailor the reps to your current level. Whether you're traveling, training at home, or just need a brutally efficient calisthenics routine, this calisthenics program delivers a full-body challenge in under 30 minutes. If you want a leaner, stronger, and more capable body using only your own weight, this is the program to follow. Get ready to upgrade your fitness with one of the most powerful calisthenics programs we've ever created. Episode Chapters: 00:01 Welcome + What Is Strike Zero? 01:16 The 6 Core Rules of Strike Zero 03:35 Supersets, Rest Rules, and Why They Matter 05:50 When to Adjust Reps vs. Rest 07:2
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Science Hacks to BOOST Your Athletic Performance | 317
17/11/2025 Duration: 43minThis week on the Garage Gym Athlete Podcast, we're running three completely different scientific studies through the grinder—and none of us saw each other's ahead of time. Expect surprises, arguments, and some actionable training takeaways you can start using immediately. Jerred digs into a kettlebell snatch protocol that boosted VO₂ max without running. Joe explores how dietary nitrates (think beets, spinach, arugula) improve isometric endurance by 25%. And Dave breaks down a 2025 study showing how heavy strength work dramatically improves running economy, durability, and time-to-exhaustion in well-trained runners. We also kick things off with an update on last week's isometric training experiment—spoiler: it was brutal—and end with a practical roundtable on supplements we actually use. If you train in a garage gym, want science-backed performance strategies, and enjoy a little misery mixed with progress…this one's for you. 00:00 – Intro: This week's study mash-up 00:30 – Isometric training update & why
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How To Build Muscle FASTER (with minimal equipment) | 316
10/11/2025 Duration: 37minCan you gain real muscle with isometric holds and little to no equipment? We break down a 2025 study comparing long-muscle-length isometric training to full range of motion isotonic work for quadriceps hypertrophy in trained lifters. We translate the science into simple setups you can use at home or in a hotel gym, explain why long-length positions matter, how to hit a true 10 RPE on static holds, and when to pair pre-exhaust sets with isometrics for serious growth without beating up your joints. What you'll learn: Isometric vs isotonic for hypertrophy and when isometrics can win How to find and hold true long-length positions for chest, back, quads, and hamstrings Making bodyweight isos hard enough to matter with 30-second max-effort holds Joint-friendly use cases for tendons, pain, deload weeks, and travel A plug-and-play isometric session you can try today Sample session: Pull: Chin-over-bar hold to failure, 4 sets Push: Handstand push-up iso 3 to 6 inches off the floor, to failure, 4 sets
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How to Fuel for Performance (and life) | 315
03/11/2025 Duration: 38minFueling for Performance: Avoid the Wall, Train Smarter & Live Better | Garage Gym Athlete Podcast Have you ever "hit the wall" mid-workout — or mid-day? In this episode, Jerred Moon and coaches Joe and Dave reveal how to fuel for performance using simple, science-backed strategies — whether you're training for a 100-mile ultra, crushing CrossFit, or just want more energy as a busy parent.
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Active Rest May Increase Performance, But Should You? | 314
27/10/2025 Duration: 38minThis week we are looking at a study comparing active rest and passive rest and how it impacts performance. We break down the study, give our thoughts on if and when you should do active rest, and more on resting between sets.
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313: Making progress even when you don't feel like it
20/10/2025 Duration: 35minMotivation fades and excuses pile up. This is when most people quit (but you'll learn how not to). In this episode, we unpack a surprising study that shows how to actually keep making progress when you don’t feel like it (using Self-Determination Theory). No hype or fancy programs (these guys didn’t even follow a workout plan). Just autonomy, competence, connection, and human to human coaching. Learn the mindset strategies that keep you training (or bettering any area of your health), even when you're not feeling it.