This week Kevin and I interviewed Sage Burgener. Sage started coaching at a young age due to her exposure to weightlifting through her father Mike Burgener. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining athleticism as we age and how Olympic weightlifting can contribute to overall fitness and longevity. She focuses on non-PR victories and attitude when coaching athletes, encouraging them to be proud of their effort and approach to the barbell. Sage believes that mental resilience is developed through acknowledging and working on our shortcomings and acting the way we want to feel before we actually feel that way. In this conversation, Sage discusses the importance of mindset and overcoming fear in Olympic weightlifting. She emphasizes the need to approach lifts with confidence and bravery, recognizing that the weight on the bar is only a temporary challenge. Sage also highlights the significance of footwork in weightlifting, explaining how proper foot positioning can improve stability and overall performance. She acknowledges the individuality of athletes and the importance of finding the right shoe and training balance for each person. Finally, Sage shares information about the Bergener strength courses and the Ultra Strength business she and her boyfriend have launched.

00:00 The Influence of Early Exposure to Weightlifting

08:16 The Role of Olympic Weightlifting in Overall Fitness and Longevity

12:01 Starting the Olympic Weightlifting Journey

23:18 Developing Mental Resilience in Competitive Sports

28:44 Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence in Olympic Weightlifting

30:34 The Importance of Footwork in Weightlifting

36:40 Finding the Right Shoe and Training Balance

46:07 How to become a successful hybrid athlete