The Gospel of Fitness: A Conversation with Steve McKinney

Liam "TAKU" Bauer • March 3, 2025

What does it really take to build strength, improve health, and sustain longevity?

In episode #187 of the Truth Not Trends Podcast, I sit down with Steve McKinney—Personal Fitness Trainer, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, and author of the recently published The Gospel of Fitness. Steve brings decades of experience to the table, combining real-world training wisdom with the principles he lays out in his book.

Steve’s approach to fitness is refreshingly straightforward: focus on what works, avoid distractions, and train with purpose. In The Gospel of Fitness, he cuts through the noise of fads and gimmicks, emphasizing evidence-based strength training, mobility, and conditioning. Whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or just someone looking to stay strong for life, Steve’s insights are invaluable.

In our conversation, we dive into topics like:

The biggest fitness myths and how to avoid them
Why strength training is the foundation of long-term health
How his experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu influences his training philosophy
Practical advice from The Gospel of Fitness that you can apply today
The importance of consistency and recovery in achieving fitness goals
How to navigate the overwhelming amount of fitness information available today

One of the standout themes from our discussion is the importance of developing a sustainable, long-term approach to fitness. Steve emphasizes that the best training program is the one you can stick with over the years, not just for a few weeks. His philosophy aligns perfectly with the Truth Not Trends mission—cutting through misinformation and helping people find real, lasting strength.

Beyond the gym, Steve’s extensive background in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has given him a unique perspective on movement, injury prevention, and mental resilience. He shares how the principles of martial arts apply directly to strength training, discipline, and overall fitness longevity.

TAKU's NOTE: Steve’s passion for fitness and no-nonsense approach make this episode a must-listen. If you’re tired of the endless cycle of fitness trends and want a clear path to getting stronger, healthier, and more resilient, this episode is for you.

Check out episode #187 of the Truth Not Trends Podcast and grab a copy of The Gospel of Fitness to start applying these principles to your own training. Stay strong!

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