How to Build Real Strength Without Destroying Your Body (w/ Dr. John Rusin)
Thu Feb 05 2026
If you feel like your workouts are “working”… but your body constantly hurts, this episode is going to change the way you think about strength training.
Because the truth is: most people don’t get injured because they’re weak. They get injured because they’re following programs that ignore how their body is actually built.
In this episode of the Redefining Strength Podcast, I sit down with Dr. John Rusin. A world-renowned performance coach, physical therapist, and creator of the Pain-Free Performance system.
Together, we break down:
Why true strength isn’t about specific exercises like squats, deadlifts, or bench press
Why the “no pain, no gain” mindset is secretly sabotaging your progress
How forcing “perfect form” can actually be what’s causing your pain
Why there is no single ideal way to move—and how to find the best movements for YOUR body
How to build strength, muscle, and resilience without beating up your joints
The biggest recovery mistake most people make (and how to fix it)
Why doing less—at higher quality—often produces better results
How to train hard AND stay pain-free for life
If you’ve ever thought:
“I’m getting stronger… but everything hurts.”
“I feel like workouts are slowly breaking me down.”
“I’m afraid to lift heavy because I don’t want to get injured.”
“I don’t know which exercises are actually right for me.”
This episode is for you.
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If you feel like your workouts are “working”… but your body constantly hurts, this episode is going to change the way you think about strength training. Because the truth is: most people don’t get injured because they’re weak. They get injured because they’re following programs that ignore how their body is actually built. In this episode of the Redefining Strength Podcast, I sit down with Dr. John Rusin. A world-renowned performance coach, physical therapist, and creator of the Pain-Free Performance system. Together, we break down: Why true strength isn’t about specific exercises like squats, deadlifts, or bench press Why the “no pain, no gain” mindset is secretly sabotaging your progress How forcing “perfect form” can actually be what’s causing your pain Why there is no single ideal way to move—and how to find the best movements for YOUR body How to build strength, muscle, and resilience without beating up your joints The biggest recovery mistake most people make (and how to fix it) Why doing less—at higher quality—often produces better results How to train hard AND stay pain-free for life If you’ve ever thought: “I’m getting stronger… but everything hurts.” “I feel like workouts are slowly breaking me down.” “I’m afraid to lift heavy because I don’t want to get injured.” “I don’t know which exercises are actually right for me.” This episode is for you.