The Hypertrophy Hierarchy (Which Training Variables Actually Matter) | Ep 396

Get your free Strength Training for Hormone Health guide at witsandweights.com/free to learn how to structure your training to support healthy hormone levels as you age, applying the principles from this episode. -- Every week there's new advice about training. Train to failure. Don't train to failure. Do more volume. No, you're overtraining. Meanwhile, you're stuck making zero progress because nobody's telling you what actually matters. Today, Philip ranks the 5 training variables that drive 80% of muscle growth, plus one hidden foundation that amplifies them all. Using the concept of Leverage Points from systems thinking, you'll discover which variables create disproportionate results and which ones are just noise distracting you from real progress. This is an evidence-based blueprint to stop spinning your wheels and start building the physique you want. Episode Resources 12 Rules of Training Volume to Build More Muscle | Ep 348 Join Physique University for Training Templates and Lifting Lessons Try MacroFactor for free with code WITSANDWEIGHTS Timestamps 0:00 - Why you're stuck and overwhelmed by conflicting training advice 3:18 - Variable #1: Training volume (the primary driver of muscle growth) 8:02 - Variable #2: Training effort and proximity to failure 12:54 - Variable #3: Progressive overload (the adaptation mechanism) 20:37 - Variable #4: Exercise selection and mechanical efficiency 25:14 - Variable #5: Frequency (how to distribute weekly volume) 30:05 - Bonus variable 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