About this episode
Want to build muscle, lose fat, and train smarter? Join the new Physique University for just $27/month and get your custom nutrition plan FREE (limited time): bit.ly/wwpu-free-plan — Were women in the past weaker than men, or have we been sold a lie? What if prehistoric women could outlift most modern athletes? And how does understanding this history change the way you train today? I’m joined by Anne Marie Chaker, author of Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives. We break down archaeological evidence that shows ancient women had elite-level strength, explore how cultural narratives have stripped women of their physical identity, and reveal why midlife can be a prime time for building muscle. You’ll learn simple, sustainable ways to start lifting, structure your workouts, and rethink food as fuel, not the enemy. Today, you’ll learn all about: 0:00 – Intro 2:24 – From journalist to competitive bodybuilder 4:30 – Archaeological proof of elite ancient women 7:07 – The Viking warrior who wasn’t a man 11:10 – The mixed messages of modern fitness culture 17:37 – How to fuel like an athlete 26:10 – Navigating perimenopause and training 30:05 – First steps for women new to lifting 36:10 – A brief history of strong women in sport 40:09 – How lifting shapes identity and mindset Episode resources: Website: annemariechaker.com Book: Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives Lift Substack LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/anne-marie-chaker-62119317 Instagram: @annemariechaker Support the show 📱 Get Fitness Lab - Philip’s science-based AI app for fat loss, muscle building, and strength training for people over 40. It adapts to your nutrition, recovery, and training to improve body composition without guesswork. 🎓 Try Physique University - Evidence-based nutrition coaching and strength training to help you lose fat, build muscle, and master your metabolism with support and accountability (free custom nutrition plan with code FREEPLAN ). 👥 Join our Facebook community - Free fat loss, muscle building, and body recomposition strategies for adults over 40 who want practical, science-backed fitness guidance. 👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram