What Happens When Your Trainer Teams Up with Your PCP?

When we talk about health, most of us think in silos: diet, exercise, sleep, mental health, and medical care all exist as separate entities.

But what if they were meant to work together?

When I started Purposeful Strength, I always believed that fitness should be functional, personal, and connected to the bigger picture of your life. It’s not just (entirely) about aesthetics—it’s about moving better, feeling better, and thriving as you age. And that’s exactly where a quality primary care physician (PCP) comes in.

Casey LeeJuly 1, 2025Comment

3 Surprising Benefits of Walking with a Weight Vest

Now, before you picture yourself strapping into some kind of military-grade armor, let me assure you—modern weight vests are comfortable, adjustable, and super beginner-friendly. And here’s the kicker: just adding a little extra load to your daily stroll can seriously level up your fitness without needing more time, effort, or fancy equipment.

ArticlesCasey LeeJune 10, 2025strength training, weight vestComment

Mediocre Miles: Preparing for My First 10K Race: Training, Shoes, and Strategy

Training for my first 10K as part of the Vermont Triple Crown was a rewarding challenge and key step toward my 2026 ultramarathon goal. Over five weeks, I followed a strategic 10K training plan that included MAF runs, speed intervals, hill work, and mobility-focused strength training. I also made a major shoe switch that improved comfort and performance. In this post, I share my full preparation process, training schedule, gear insights, and tips for runners tackling their first 10K. Whether you're racing in Vermont or anywhere else, this guide will help you train smarter and show up strong on race day.

ArticlesCasey LeeJune 6, 2025runningComment

Mediocre Miles: SAP Run Recap! (8.5 Mile Race)

16 weeks of running prep came to fruition on Sunday April 27th. 8.5 miles along route 7 from Swanton to St.Albans. I went in to the prep with little expectations but eventually set three goals for myself.

1) Complete the race in under 70 minutes - this would put me at a sub 8:30 minute mile.

2) Don’t poop your pants mid-run

3) Don’t walk.

When I crossed the finish line I came in at 68 minutes - right at an 8 minute mile - had clean spandex, and didn’t walk once.

SUCCESS!

ArticlesCasey LeeMay 3, 2025RunningComment

Dumbbell Strength Training for Beginners on GLP-1 Medication: A Smart Start to a Stronger, Healthier You

If you’ve recently started taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro to support weight loss or manage type 2 diabetes, you’re already taking a powerful step toward better health. But here’s something you might not know: pairing your medication with regular strength training—I’m biased, I think dumbbells are a great choice!—can dramatically improve your results and help you feel your best.

ArticlesCasey LeeApril 25, 2025strength training, GLP-1Comment

Mediocre Miles: Maximize Your Fitness- MAF for New Runners

When starting out as a runner, understanding your Maximum Aerobic Function (MAF) heart rate is crucial. MAF is the highest heart rate you can maintain while still staying in an aerobic zone. This zone helps build endurance, improve fat-burning capacity, and prevent overtraining. For new runners, training at or below the MAF allows your body to adapt to running without straining the cardiovascular system.

Needless to say, it was a mistake I made during the first two months of my SAP run build. I was just running, not really looking at my heart rate.

ArticlesCasey LeeApril 17, 2025running, workoutComment