Why Aren’t You Getting Stronger?

Plateaus aren’t failure. They’re feedback. Here’s how to respond...

Photo: Justin Steele

I was going to keep things breezy today—it’s a holiday week, after all—but then I thought: my readers can handle a little heat.

So let’s dig into something that I get asked about all the time by IG followers, friends, and even my own brain on a random Saturday morning: plateaus. You’ve been showing up for your workouts—whether that’s lifting, running, walking, Pilates, yoga, or dancing around your kitchen in a weighted vest. You’ve been trying to eat well, move consistently, and do all “the right things.”

But your progress has stalled; nothing is changing. You’re stuck.

And just to be clear: “progress” doesn’t have to mean super-heavy lifts or visible abs. It might look like having more energy, staying consistent without burning out, enjoying your workouts again—or simply feeling hot in your favorite jeans (yes, you're allowed to love that).

Now that we’re officially six months through the year, I’d like to help you move through the stickiness—whatever it looks or feels like for you. Because I want you to have a best case scenario second half of your 2025…

Case Study: Me

My current goal is strength-focused—and yes, it’s kind of intense. But that’s what’s lighting me up right now. Your “plateau” might have nothing to do with a barbell.

First things first. If you’re operating in a sleep shortage, skipping meals, or trying to out-exercise chronic stress, your body is probably just doing its best to protect you. Plateaus can be your system’s way of saying I need more support not You’re failing. And if that gave you pause? It might be worth cleaning up your sleep hygiene, exploring protein timing, an amino acid supplement, or taking creatine.

Even a leveled-up wellness protocol won’t compensate for consistently poor sleep or sky-high stress. Start with the low-hanging fruit.

Here’s how I’ve personally navigated plateaus—what helped, what didn’t, and the surprising lift that just changed everything...