Trying to balance running and lifting… and feeling like you don’t have enough time?

You’re not alone.

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/BtY7Ze4Z8cM

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/ 

One of the biggest struggles in hybrid training is figuring out how to structure your week so you can build strength AND improve endurance without burning out.

In this video, I break down my favorite hybrid training splits and how to actually make running and lifting work together.

We cover:

• The best 2-day, 3-day, and 4-day lifting splits for hybrid athletes

• Why most people don’t need “bro splits”

• How to balance recovery between lifting and running

• How to train efficiently if you’re short on time

• Why quality matters more than volume

• How to adjust your split based on your season (in-season vs off-season)

Hybrid training requires compromise. You can’t go all-in on both lifting and running at the same time—but you CAN train both effectively with the right structure.

For most people, less volume and higher quality training leads to better results, better recovery, and more consistency.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you can’t fit everything into your week, this is where to start.

🤘🏻 FOLLOW ME ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

If you’ve ever wondered what to do after time off training, whether recovery trackers like WHOOP actually work, or how to balance running and lifting, this video is for you.

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/n847Dr_8YFo

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

In this Q&A, I’m answering your real questions about hybrid training, recovery, strength training, cardio, and performance. As a PhD in exercise physiology and hybrid athlete myself, I break down what actually matters—and what doesn’t—so you can train smarter, recover better, and avoid common mistakes.

We cover topics like:

• What to do when returning to training after time off

• Should interval recovery be walking or jogging?

• How to structure your weekly running distances

• Are recovery trackers like WHOOP actually useful?

• Vibration plates for bone density—fact or fiction

• Should beginners start with lifting or running first?

• How to combine cycling with running and lifting

• How to structure hybrid training effectively

Hybrid training doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does require understanding how to manage recovery, intensity, and consistency.

The goal isn’t perfect training. It’s sustainable training that helps you improve long-term.

If you have questions you want answered in a future video, drop them in the comments.

Subscribe for science-based hybrid training, endurance, and strength content.

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW ME ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

🤘🏻 GRAB MY FREE ZONES CALCULATOR → https://doc-lyss-fitness.myflodesk.com/zones-help-yt

This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/b188Rx_-zUk

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/ 

Are you doing striders in your running training?

If not, you might be leaving free speed on the table.

In this video, I break down exactly what striders are, how to do them properly, and why they’re one of the most effective (and most underrated) tools for improving running speed — without adding extra fatigue.

We cover:

• What a strider actually is (and what it’s not)

• The difference between striders and sprinting

• How to perform them correctly (acceleration, hold, deceleration)

• Why striders improve neuromuscular efficiency

• How they help you recruit more power without heavy fatigue

• How beginners and advanced runners should use them

• When to add striders into your week

• How many to do and how to progress

Striders are short accelerations at 80–95% effort that help train your body to run faster efficiently — without the lactate buildup or stress of full speed workouts.

They’re perfect for:

• Beginner runners adding speed work

• Intermediate runners stuck at a plateau

• Advanced runners wanting more efficient speed

• Warming up before races

• Improving stride length and cadence

• Sneaking in form work without formal drills

If you want a simple way to improve speed without burnout, this is it.

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW ME ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

📲 Get my free lifting calculator & RPE guide to start actually training hard enough in the gym: https://bit.ly/4mtleF5

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/yjKbgjwXq34

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Took time off from lifting — whether for vacation, sickness, or just life getting in the way — and not sure how to start again? In this video, Dr. Alyssa Olenick (PhD, Exercise Physiology) walks you through exactly how to ease back into resistance training safely and effectively.

You’ll learn:

• How much strength and muscle you actually lose during time off

• Why you get so sore after your first sessions back

• How to adjust weights, reps, and sets when restarting

• The “1 week off = 1 week easing back” rule

• How to rebuild consistency without burning out or getting injured

Whether you took a week off, a month off, or even longer, this science-based guide will help you return to lifting the right way — so you can build strength again without frustration.

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW LYSS ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction

0:45 - 3 Week Long Vacation

1:42 - Piece of Advice

2:24 - Return to Your Program (Tip 1)

3:50 - Adjusting RPE to 5-6

5:30 - Reintroduction Week

7:48 - Maintain Volume (Tip 2)

8:27 - Eating and Sleeping (Tip 3)

9:30 - Taking Months Off & Where to Start

11:30 - Wrap Up

🔥 Get my free ZONES CALCULATOR & PhD-backed running tips here:

→ https://bit.ly/4lYPHKK

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/i_9jfbUNY_E

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Want to run faster without burning out? In this video, Doc Lyss breaks down science-based strategies to increase your speed efficiently. Learn how to integrate speed work drills like striders and pick-ups, build a strong mileage foundation, and balance easy Zone 2 runs with high-intensity training to get FASTER.

🎥 Beginners Runner Video → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twuSS9Uu2p0

🤘🏻 TRAIN & RUN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW ME ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

Timstamps:

0:00 - Introduction

1:40 - Striders

3:00 - Pick-up runs

4:38 - Speed work day and examples

8:50 - Volume of training

10:08 - Run slow to get fast

11:11 - Summary/recap

🔥 Get my free ZONES CALCULATOR & PhD-backed running tips here: → https://bit.ly/4lYPHKK

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/wvZScbcEbEc

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Zone 2 cardio doesn’t have to be boring. In this video, Dr. Alyssa Olenick, PhD in Exercise Physiology, shares three different ways to do Zone 2 training—from the classic steady-state session to more creative interval-based approaches that keep you engaged and consistent.

You’ll learn:

- What Zone 2 training really means

- Classic Steady-State Zone 2 Cardio

- Multi-Machine / Erg Interval Zone 2 Training

- CrossFit-Style / Metcon-Inspired Zone 2 Workouts

- How to choose the best option for your goals

Whether you’re a runner, hybrid athlete, or just looking to improve your cardio fitness, these methods can help you build endurance, improve recovery, and actually look forward to your easier training days.

📌 RESOURCES

🎯 Download my Zones Mini Guide: https://bit.ly/4i2k4Ot

🏋️‍♀️ Train with me in The Lyss Method: https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW ME ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction

1:35 - Traditional steady state

3:35 - Multiple ergs option

5:04 - METCON style approach

6:28 - Different variations

6:55 - The Lyss Method & recap

#Zone2Cardio #EnduranceTraining #HybridTraining #RunningTips #CardioWorkout #FitnessTips #TheLyssMethod #zone2

🔥 Get my free ZONES CALCULATOR & PhD-backed running tips here → https://bit.ly/4lYPHKK

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/Yl56Q6ZK4HU

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Are you relying on your running watch for heart rate training? 👀 You might be getting inaccurate data! In this video, Dr. Alyssa breaks down the differences between optical heart rate sensors (like those in Garmin, Apple Watch, and Coros) and chest strap monitors.

Learn how wrist-based HR monitors actually work, when they fail, and why chest straps are still the gold standard for accurate heart rate training.

Whether you're training by heart rate zones, doing Zone 2 cardio, or looking to improve performance, this video will help you understand which device gives you the most reliable data for smarter training.

TOPICS COVERED:

- How optical heart rate sensors work

- Why wrist-based monitors are often inaccurate

- Benefits of chest strap HR monitors for runners and endurance athletes

- Tips for getting the most accurate heart rate data during workouts

Perfect for runners, cyclists, endurance athletes, and anyone training with heart rate.

📌 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and drop a comment if you’ve noticed differences between your watch and chest strap readings!

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW ME ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com

Time Stamps:

0:00 – Should You Use a Watch or Chest Strap?

0:07 – Intro: Why Accuracy Matters

0:25 – How Watches Measure Heart Rate

0:50 – Photoplethysmography Explained

1:35 – Why Wrist Sensors Are Less Accurate

2:10 – When a Watch Is 'Good Enough'

2:45 – Examples of Inaccuracies from Different Devices

3:13 – Chest Straps vs Armbands vs Watches

3:55 – How Chest Straps Work

4:30 – Best Chest Strap Brands & Options

5:10 – Tips for Getting Accurate Readings

5:53 – When to Use a Chest Strap

6:45 – Summary: Choose Based on Your Goals

7:22 – Free Zones Calculator & Final Thoughts

#zone2 #hybridtraining #runningtips #heartratemonitor #marathon #halfmarathon #hyrox #hyroxtraining #hybridfitness

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/l8Wlj-hwkL4

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/ 

📲 Get my free lifting calculator & RPE guide to start actually training hard enough in the gym: https://bit.ly/4mtleF5

Are you really lifting heavy enough to make progress? In this video, Dr. Alyssa Olenick shares three simple checks — RPE, rest times, and rep speed — to see if your training intensity is high enough to build strength, muscle, and endurance in the gym.

You’ll learn:

• How to use **RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion)** to choose the right weight

• Why your last reps should slow down if you’re lifting close enough to failure

• How needing the *full rest period* is a sign your weights are heavy enough

• How increased focus and effort indicate the right training intensity

• Tips for beginners vs. experienced lifters when applying RPE

This video is for:

• Beginners learning how to train with RPE

• Lifters stuck in a plateau

• Athletes wanting to push harder safely and effectively

Related videos:

🎥 How to Choose the Right Weight: https://bit.ly/4bQirzU

🎥 Make Progressive Overload More Fun: https://bit.ly/3RiDSRN

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW LYSS ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction

0:25 - Underload/underestimate

0:50 - Are your reps slowing down?

2:12 - Do you need the full rest period?

3:35 - Does your lift require focus?

5:03 - Lift within the comfort of your skill

5:35 - Wrap up

#LiftingTips #RPETraining #StrengthTraining #MuscleGains #HowToLiftHeavy #GymTipsForBeginners #StrengthTrainingForWomen #HypertrophyTraining #WeightTrainingTips #ProgressiveOverload

📲 Get my free lifting calculator & RPE guide to start actually training hard enough in the gym: https://bit.ly/4mtleF5

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/BbT4XGUwGXs

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Do you struggle when the next dumbbell or barbell jump feels way too heavy? You’re not alone — this is one of the most common lifting frustrations, especially in commercial gyms where weights only increase in 5–10 lb jumps.

In this video, I’ll walk you through exactly what to do when you’re stuck between weights so you can still progress, get stronger, and apply progressive overload without stalling.

What you’ll learn:

- How to progress if the next dumbbell jump is too heavy

- Smart ways to increase reps instead of weights

- How to use cluster sets and partial sets to bridge the gap

- Why change plates (even fractional plates) are a game-changer

- How to use top sets and back-off sets for continued progress

These strategies work whether you’re training with dumbbells, barbells, or machines — and are especially useful for women, beginners, and anyone lifting in a gym without smaller increments.

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW LYSS ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction

0:30 - What to do with dumbbells

1:00 - Increasing reps/matching RPE

2:00 - 1/2 heavier sets

2:30 - Break up your sets

4:00 - Increasing barbell movements

4:25 - Change plates

5:20 - Backoff sets

#StrengthTraining #ProgressiveOverload #WeightLiftingTips #GymProgress #DumbbellWorkout #LiftingTips #GetStronger #BarbellTraining #BeginnerLifting #HybridTraining

📲 Get my free lifting calculator & RPE guide to start actually training hard enough in the gym → https://bit.ly/4mtleF5

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/MjQwtiiK6Bg

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Stop wasting 30 minutes on warm-ups you don’t need — and stop jumping under the bar cold. In this video, Dr. Alyssa Olenick, PhD in Exercise Physiology, shares her simple, effective, and time-efficient warm-up method for strength training.

This is the exact approach she uses for herself and her clients inside The Lyss Method to get warm, get moving, and start lifting — without wasting time.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Cardio warm-up: How to get your heart rate up and prime your body for lifting

• Foam rolling: Benefits for muscle activation and injury prevention

• Dynamic stretches: The importance of flexibility and mobility before lifting

• Core exercises: Activating your core for better stability during lifts

• Movement prep: Preparing your joints and muscles for the workout ahead

This warm-up routine is perfect for anyone looking to optimize their workout and reduce the risk of injury. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned lifter, Alyssa’s tips will help you improve performance and get the most out of every training session.

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW LYSS ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction

0:57 - Getting warm via cardio

1:40 - Thoughts on foam rolling

3:02 - Dynamic movements/stretches

4:45 - Mix in core work

5:50 - Movement prep

7:15 - Possible plyometrics

7:40 - Get under the bar

11:00 - Warm-ups set jumps

15:05 - Recap and wrap-up

#WarmUpForLifting #StrengthTrainingTips #WeightliftingWarmUp #TheLyssMethod #LiftingTips #PreWorkoutRoutine

🔥 Get my free MACRO CALCULATOR here to help figure out how much to start eating to support your training → https://bit.ly/4d8ZTMJ

→ This video is a podcast version of a full YouTube video! Watch it here on Spotify (video edition) or YouTube: https://youtu.be/8N7SMYXW00w

Get $20 off your first month with code PODCAST:

→ https://www.thelyssmethod.com/

Struggling to eat enough carbohydrates for your training? In this video, Dr. Alyssa Olenick shares her go-to strict carb sources — foods that are mostly carbohydrates — to help you fuel endurance training, recovery, and performance.

You’ll learn:

• What “strict carb sources” are and why they matter for active people

• Why runners or endurance athletes often need 300–600g+ of carbs per day

• How to balance whole-food carbs with easy-digesting carb options

• The best carb sources for pre-workout, post-workout, and everyday meals

• How to increase carbs without unintentionally raising fat intake

• Practical examples from breads, grains, potatoes, fruit, juice, and more

This video is for:

• Runners, cyclists, hyrox racers, lifters, and hybrid athletes

Anyone training 4–6 days per week with high energy demands

• People who struggle to hit their daily carb targets without GI distress

FED & FAST MINI GUIDE (Code: FED15) → Get it Here: https://doclyssfitness.com/fed-fast/

🎧 Top 3 for Active Females → Listen Here: https://bit.ly/461WQlT

🤘🏻 TRAIN WITH ME HERE → https://www.thelyssmethod.com/programs

🤘🏻 FOLLOW LYSS ON IG → https://www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness/

🤘🏻 LEARN MORE + FREE RESOURCES → https://doclyssfitness.com/

Time Stamps:

0:00 - Introduction

0:27 - How do I get in enough?

1:30 - What is a "strict" carb?

2:30 - Variety of carbs available

4:00 - My favorites!

4:07 - Breads

5:15 - Pancakes/waffles

6:25 - POTATOES

7:41 - Grains/pasta

9:09 - Fruit

10:15 - Honey

11:30 - Applesauce pouches

12:13 - Juices

14:00 - Wrap up

#CarbSources #EnduranceNutrition #SportsNutrition #FuelForPerformance #HybridTrainingNutrition #RunningFuel #CarbohydrateLoading #PreWorkoutFuel #PostWorkoutFuel #EatForPerformance