Lifting Weights Builds Flexibility Better Than Stretching (New Research) | Ep 459
Failed to add items
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
-
Narrated by:
-
By:
Do you need yoga, stretching, or "mobility work" to stay flexible. Does lifting weights make you "stiff" or does it improve flexibility?
We examine 3 recent studies that compared resistance training to stretching for flexibility, and their findings challenge everything most people assume about lifting weights and mobility.
Philip covers the "lifting makes you stiff" myth and a training approach that builds flexibility and strength at the same time.
If you're over 40 and worried about losing range of motion, this one's for you. Stay for the bonus 60-second squat test at the end.
Upgrade your sleep to match your training with Cozy Earth. Cozy Earth's bamboo-derived sheets regulate temperature so you stay comfortable all night. 100-night sleep trial, 10-year warranty. Use code WITSANDWEIGHTS at witsandweights.com/cozyearth for up to 20% off.
Timestamps
0:00 - Lifting weights and flexibility
1:10 - Strength training and mobility after 40
3:00 - Partial range of motion and stiffness
6:12 - 3 recent studies on strength training vs. stretching
8:30 - Bodyweight exercises and flexibility
10:22 - Eccentric training and range of motion
12:38 - 2025 Delphi consensus on stretching
13:31 - The best way to improve recovery
14:49 - Full ROM on compound lifts
16:30 - Exercises that load muscles at long lengths
18:00 - Load intensity and flexibility gains
19:30 - Exercise substitutions for flexibility
21:00 - Olympic weightlifters and mobility
22:34 - Bonus: 60-second squat flexibility test
💪 Join Eat More Lift Heavy - A 6-month coaching program for lifters over 40 who are done collecting information and ready to have real human coaches watch their data and know what to focus on each week.
📱 Get Fitness Lab (exclusive 20% off) - The #1 adaptive fitness and nutrition app. Daily coaching, workouts, and biofeedback-based guidance to help you build muscle and lose fat over 40.
👥 Join our Facebook community - For adults over 40 who want to build muscle, lose fat, and stop following bad advice. Weekly Q&A threads, coaching insights, and real chat with other lifters.
👋 Ask a question or find Philip Pape on Instagram