From 280 Pounds to Well-Muscled Boston Qualifier at Age 55 with Hybrid/Concurrent Training | Ep 188

Wits & Weights | Smart Science to Build Muscle and Lose Fat

Have you ever dreamed of running a marathon but felt it was impossible due to your weight or fitness level? Or that lots of cardio will kill your muscle and gains? Discover how Ben went from 280 pounds to qualifying for the Boston Marathon at 55 without losing muscle mass.

In this episode, Philip (@witsandweights) interviews Ben Lewis, who began his fitness journey at 52, weighing over 280 pounds. Now, at 55, Ben has transformed his life, shedding over 100 pounds and improving his cardiovascular health while building muscle. Ben's remarkable story includes qualifying for the Boston Marathon, showcasing the potential of combining weight loss with muscle gain.

Philip and Ben dive deep into the strategies that enabled Ben's incredible transformation. They discuss the importance of balancing nutrition, training, and physique goals, all while doing what you love. Ben shares insights on sustainable fat loss, hybrid training approaches, and the significance of setting realistic goals. He also emphasizes the role of mindset and consistency in achieving long-term success.

Tune in to learn from Ben's journey and discover practical tips for reclaiming your health and fitness. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable lessons on balancing various aspects of fitness while maintaining a fulfilling lifestyle.

Today, you’ll learn all about:

1:35 What goes through Ben's mind during his workout
4:49 Training for the Boston Marathon
6:31 His fitness journey and weight fluctuations
12:51 His fitness journey starting at age 52
16:20 Lessons and motivations from his initial 2021 weight loss
21:21 Tracking progress and managing the scale
26:46 Maintaining a calorie deficit and recomposition
30:51 Using the Physique Tracker (a WWPU tool)
40:10 Hybrid training: balancing lifting and running
53:05 Prioritizing performance vs. health
57:31 What question Ben wished Philip had asked
1:00:08 Advice for others on a similar journey
1:03:48 How to connect with Ben
1:04:40 Outro
Episode resources:

• Join our Facebook group to get the FREE physique tracker
• Ben’s IG: @benelou_fitness

📲 Send me a text message!

Support the Show.

🎓 Join Wits & Weights Physique University
👩‍💻 Schedule a FREE nutrition/training audit with Philip
👥 Join our Facebook community for live Q&As & support
✉️ Join the FREE email list with insider strategies and bonus content!
📱 Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS. The only food logging app that adjusts to your metabolism!
🩷 Enjoyed this episode? Share it on social and follow/tag @witsandweights
🤩 Love the podcast? Leave a 5-star review

📞 Send a Q&A voicemail

Chapters

1. From 280 Pounds to Well-Muscled Boston Qualifier at Age 55 with Hybrid/Concurrent Training | Ep 188 (00:00:00)

2. Fitness Transformation Journey (00:00:01)

3. Weight Loss Struggles and Sustainability (00:07:32)

4. Seizing Moments for Weight Loss Success (00:12:51)

5. Nutrition Tracking Empowers Food Choices (00:21:48)

6. Body Measurement Tools and Fitness Progress (00:31:26)

7. Balancing Fitness and Health Goals (00:40:30)

8. Strategic Planning for Sustainable Fitness (00:44:23)

9. Healthy Fitness and Weight Loss Approach (00:55:46)

10. Supporting Fitness Journeys on Instagram (01:04:03)