NBSV 210: Minimal time, maximum strength — Coach Matt Taylor on training that fits your life
- Karina Inkster
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 40 minutes ago
In this episode, I’m joined by strength coach Matt Taylor to talk about what it really takes to get stronger when life is busy. We dig into the concept of bare-ass minimums: the essential actions that keep you progressing even during chaotic weeks—and how to build a training routine that fits into real life.
Matt shares how he coaches lifters to make meaningful gains in under five hours a week, why anchoring habits matters more than willpower, and how to set goals that won’t burn you out. We also dive into his own journey: from world records to an autoimmune diagnosis, and back to competitive lifting using a more flexible, sustainable approach.
Whether you’re short on time, struggling with consistency, or just want a smarter strength plan, this conversation will help you rethink what “effective training” actually looks like.
Important topics we discussed:
>> Why most people overestimate how much training they need, and underestimate what’s possible in 30 minutes
>> How to structure 30-minute workouts (warm-up, primary lift, accessories)
>> The importance of habit anchoring and how to tie workouts to existing routines
>> Navigating competing priorities, and how to choose goals that fit your life and values
Connect with Matt:
>> Matt's [free] powerlifting community
>> Matt on Instagram
Mentioned in this episode:
>> Matt's free [and downloadable] case study
Share your thoughts:
>> Comment on the episode's Facebook post.
>> Leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews really help, and I read each one!
Subscribe to the show:
>> Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify.
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