What does it really mean to train for life?
In this episode of The Training Project Podcast, Joe Drake sits down with Clif Harski — fitness educator, movement coach, and Director of Education for the Pain-Free Performance Training System (PPSC) — to break down what it takes to stay strong, athletic, and pain-free for decades.
With over 15 years of experience teaching certifications around the world for brands like PPSC, FitWall, MovNat, and Kettlebell Athletics, Clif has personally certified thousands of coaches and helped reshape how the industry thinks about functional training.
Clif and Joe dive into what separates good training from great training, why you don’t need “perfect” periodization to get results, and how simple consistency and smart movement can keep you performing for the long game.
Why Clif may have taught more fitness certifications than anyone in the industry
His journey from college athlete → Trader Joe’s employee → international educator
The “Be Able & Be Athletic” framework for programming
How to balance 70 % consistency + 30 % variety for long-term results
Why most people don’t need rigid periodization to get stronger
How to safely add eccentric & isometric training for power and resilience
Training tweaks that keep you athletic in your 40s and 50s
The truth about kettlebells vs. barbells and dumbbells (and what most people get wrong)
The most overrated and underrated exercises in fitness
How the Pain-Free Performance Training System helps coaches bridge the gap between performance & longevity
Clif Harski is a performance coach, educator, and fitness industry veteran known for blending athletic training with movement quality and humor. He’s worked with leading organizations including Pain-Free Performance (PPSC), FitWall, MovNat, and Kettlebell Athletics, and has personally taught 500+ certifications worldwide.
When he’s not traveling to teach, Clif trains clients and coaches on how to stay “able and athletic” well into their 40s and beyond.
🌐 Website: painfreetraining.com — Courses & Certifications📸 Instagram: @cliftonharski💼 LinkedIn: Clif Harski
🎙 Full episode library & resources: coachjoedrake.com/podcast
💪 Hosted by Joe Drake — trainer, educator, and founder of Axiom Fitness Academy
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