The PJF Podcast: Elite Sports Performance 061: GLP-1's for Athletes, Losing Fat Without Losing Strength + More
Jan 19, 2026
Explore the intriguing link between body fat and athletic performance, highlighting how genetics play a critical role. Learn about the potential benefits and risks of GLP-1 drugs for athletes, including appetite control and muscle loss concerns. Discover why cravings might indicate a need for specific nutrients. Dive into the debate of plyometrics versus approach jumps for optimized training, all while considering the trade-offs of specificity and overload in workouts. Get ready to rethink performance strategies!
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Calipers Underestimate Body Fat Versus DEXA
- Skinfold caliper results often underreport true body fat compared to DEXA scans by several percentage points. Paul Fabritz warns that a reported 3.5% by caliper may be closer to 8–10% by DEXA, so interpret caliper numbers cautiously.
Lean Targets Should Be Individualized
- Optimal body-fat for performance is individual and depends on genetics rather than a universal cutoff like 10%. Paul Fabritz emphasizes that forcing everyone under 10% can harm performance for those who must chronically diet to get there.
Avoid Long Deep Deficits; Reverse Diet Instead
- Avoid prolonged, deep caloric deficits because they lower NEAT and impair recovery, strength, and muscle mass. Paul Fabritz recommends reverse dieting back to maintenance to restore performance and support muscle growth.