The Leo Alves Podcast

Are you trying to build strength and muscle but not seeing the desired results? In this episode, learn seven key tips that can help you maximise your progress and avoid common mistakes along the way. Find out why good form is more important than lifting heavy weights, the significance of not skipping muscle groups, and how progressive overload is crucial for muscle growth. I’ll also discuss the im...

Are you obsessed with your fitness tracker's calories burned feature? You might be surprised to learn that this focus could hinder your progress. In this episode, I explain why tracking calories burned during workouts can lead to inaccuracies, create unhealthy relationships with exercise and nutrition, and distract you from more meaningful metrics like strength and form.   1-2-1 Online Fitness Mem...

In this episode, I dive into my Japanese language learning journey and how breaking a 1,800-day streak taught me lessons I now apply to fitness coaching. From setting high and low motivation goals to identifying and breaking through plateaus, I explore parallels between learning a language and progressing in your fitness journey. Whether you’re stuck in a plateau or just starting out, this episode...

Struggling to find time for fitness in your busy schedule? In this episode, learn seven effective strategies to stay fit without spending hours in the gym. From simple changes like taking the stairs to 15-minute full-body workouts, these tips will help you implement exercise into your daily routine effortlessly. Discover what "exercise snacks" are, the importance of accountability, and why overthi...

Are you struggling to set your nutrition goals for fat loss? This episode teaches a simple yet effective approach to creating a sustainable nutrition plan. Find out how to set up a calorie deficit using my free online calorie calculator, establish a protein goal to help with muscle building and satiety, and incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. These strategies are all covered to...

In this episode, I cover 5 essential push exercises to help you build strength in your chest, shoulders, and triceps. From bodyweight dips to the standing overhead press and machine-based exercises, these moves will help you achieve a well-rounded upper body. Plus, I share my free Effortless Eating Guide to make nutrition simple and flexible. Whether you’re new to push workouts or looking to optim...

In this episode, I share 25 essential fitness lessons from my 29 years of life, including my personal journey, coaching experiences, and life-changing insights. From gym etiquette and debunking fitness myths to understanding the importance of sustainable habits, this episode is packed with practical tips to improve your fitness journey. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your ap...

In this episode, I discuss 5 great upper-body pull exercises for building a strong, balanced physique. I cover the key moves for developing your back and biceps, from classic chin-ups to incline dumbbell rows. Learn how to execute each exercise with proper form, get tips on warming up, and discover how to balance your workout routine for solid strength gains. Plus, grab my free Effortless Eating g...

In this episode, I discuss the top 5 exercises you need to build strong, sculpted legs. Whether you’re new to strength training or looking to improve your leg day routine, these essential exercises will help you achieve impressive lower body gains. I cover everything from Static Lunges and Romanian Deadlifts to Goblet Squats, Glute Bridges, and Seated Leg Curls. Plus, get solid tips on proper form...

In this episode, I discuss a part of my journey growing up in South London and how early experiences shaped my relationship with fitness. From watching my mum skip rope to enduring military-style workouts as a cadet, exercise initially felt like a punishment rather than a source of joy. I share how this mindset led me to distance myself from physical activity and how I eventually transformed my ap...

In this episode, Ben Cure and I discuss common mistakes you might make when tracking fat loss progress. We expand on why relying solely on scale weight can be misleading and discuss smarter, more effective indicators of progress, including body measurements, progress photos, and even old clothes. Ben and I also highlight the importance of tracking improved habits, strength gains, and mental well-b...

"Best Home Gym Equipment to Invest in for 2025" discusses the best exercise gear for building a home workout space that suits any fitness level. This episode covers the best home gym equipment to consider, whether starting a home gym from scratch or upgrading your existing setup. I discuss the benefits of adjustable dumbbells, barbells, resistance bands, pull-up bars, gym benches, suspension train...

In this episode, I share my personal journey after tearing my left hamstring during a Jiu-Jitsu session. From the initial injury to getting an MRI and adjusting my fitness and nutrition plans, I detail the highs and lows of recovery. Learn how I’ve adapted my workouts, focused on upper body training, and approached setbacks with a positive mindset. Whether you’ve faced a similar injury or are navi...

In this episode, I discuss "The Unsexy Health Habits You Need to Prioritise." I felt it was crucial to address the essential fitness and wellness habits often overshadowed by social media trends but are vital for a healthier life. So, don't miss this informative episode that cuts out the crap and focuses on what truly matters for your well-being.   1-2-1 Online Fitness Member Inquiry Form Instagra...

"Balancing Nutrition and Social Meals: A Guide" shares strategies for maintaining healthy eating habits while enjoying a social life. I suggest avoiding back-to-back meals, sticking to one plate, and reconsidering dessert choices. I also share the benefits of tracking calories starting from your meal, waiting 10 minutes before seconds, and having protein beforehand. Set realistic expectations for...

In this episode, "Get Your First Chin-Up: Beginner's Guide," everything needed to achieve that first chin-up is covered. The episode starts with a personal chin-up story, followed by advice on purchasing a chin-up bar and adopting the grease-the-groove approach to build strength. Various chin-up variations are discussed to keep workouts effective and engaging. Additionally, there's a focus on the...

In this episode, find out how to break through fat loss plateaus with suggestions and tips. Ashleigh and I discuss common reasons for fat loss plateaus, such as inaccuracies with calorie tracking and a natural decline in consistency. Learn about metabolic adaptation, the myth of "starvation mode," and effective ways to tackle self-sabotage. Whether you're struggling with food tracking, eating out,...

Join me in this episode as I sit with renowned fitness coach Susan Niebergall. Find out about Susan's journey from being a teacher to becoming a top personal trainer, and get a sneak peek into her upcoming fitness book. Learn valuable tips on communication in fitness coaching, strength training while injured, and the importance of personalised training. Susan shares her personal story of hip surge...

This episode explores the carnivore diet, focusing on its main principles, benefits, and drawbacks. I discuss what the diet involves, its high protein content, and its simplicity. On the downside, I cover its unbalanced nature, lack of fibre, and sustainability issues. I also address social limitations and the potential for disordered eating. Finally, I share my thoughts on the diet. Tune in for a...

In this short solo episode, I discuss the dangers of falling into the fitness comparison trap. Whether it's comparing your progress to a coworker, a friend on a trendy diet, or someone with elite genetics on social media, this mindset can hold you back. Learn how to focus on your sustainable fitness journey and avoid the pitfalls of unrealistic expectations.   Inquire About Becoming a 1-2-1 Online...

In this episode, I’m joined by repeat guest and longtime friend Myles Nesbeth, a strength and conditioning coach now based in Toronto. We dive into the nuances of training splits, comparing full-body, upper-lower, and bro splits, and explore the value of cardio and community in fitness. Myles shares his insights on adapting workouts to your lifestyle and why enjoying your routine is crucial for co...

In this solo episode, I break down my 30-day fat loss documentation. From my daily non-negotiables and calorie targets to lessons learned about plateaus and aggressive fat loss, I share my transparent experience. Tune in to learn about my mindset shifts, nutrition swaps, and how I used a consistency calendar to stay on track. If you're considering a cut or want insights into sustainable fat loss,...

Melissa de Sousa returns to share her fitness journey after 2 years of online coaching. We discuss her transition to intuitive eating, insights from the 75 Hard challenge, and how she balances fitness with a corporate lifestyle and travel. Melissa also shares her mindset shifts, including her changed relationship with scale weight and the small wins that keep her motivated. Tune in for an inspirin...

Laura McKee shares her inspiring 45kg weight loss journey and how her fitness goals have evolved. We discuss her transition from tracking protein to focusing on fibre, the importance of realistic progress in training, and her mindset shifts. Laura also dives into life in Norway, balancing fitness with travel and her goal to achieve unassisted chin-ups.   Inquire About Becoming a 1-2-1 Online Fitne...

In this episode, I sit down with Alex d’Itaben, a long-term 1-2-1 online fitness member, to dive deep into his inspiring fitness journey. From shedding 9kg of body fat to gaining strength and building muscle, Alex shares the challenges and triumphs of transforming his lifestyle while balancing a demanding job and social life. We discuss calorie deficits, calorie surpluses, protein strategies, and...