193. Unf*ck the Middle: Why You’re Not “Stuck” - You’re in Maintenance
Jan 24, 2026
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention in the fitness world: MAINTENANCE.
Nope…It’s not sexy, or flashy, and it’s definitely not talked about enough.
But… if you're serious about building a sustainable, strong, AND energized body? It’s a phase you need to understand and embrace!
Maintenance is not a “break”. You’re still training with intention, intensity, and you’re pushing for progress (just in a different way). You CAN still lose fat and build muscle while in maintenance - it will be slower progress, but you’re no longer chasing constant fat loss or being ruled by the scale (thanks to body recomp)!
I’ve experienced plenty of my own setbacks this year (it’s been a bit of a shitshow honestly), BUT, I’ve still been consistent with my simple + powerful habits that keep me moving forward!
Whether you’re in a season that feels tough, or you’re ready to stop the ridiculous yo-yo diets and start OWNING your strength, I promise - you can still navigate the “middle” with confidence!
Episode Recap:
- Quick health + personal update
- Why summer is the perfect season for maintenance
- How body recomp works + why maintenance calories can still change your body composition
- Viewing your workouts as a “power season” vs. an “off season”
- The mental struggle of “the middle” + why maintenance can feel hard even when it’s right
- How to reframe progress beyond the scale
- The all-or-nothing trap many fitness pros fall into
- How to know if you’re in a solid maintenance zone for YOUR body
- Key reminders to keep you grounded during your maintenance phase
Links/Resources Mentioned:
- Ep. 192 | THIS Is the Whole Point of Your Fitness Journey
- Ep. 183 | How Sprinting Can Boost Your Fitness Routine (Even When You’re Not a Runner)Grab your FREE Body Recomp Meal Prep and get the UFYF Newsletter
- Listen to the Girls with Opinions Podcast
- Join FIT CLUB, my monthly membership with workouts you can do at home or the gym
- PRIVATE COACHING is my 1:1 program (choose 3 or 6 month option)
- Connect with me on Instagram @kristycastillofit and @unfuckyourfitnesspodcast so we can keep this conversation going-be sure to tag me in your posts and stories!
- Join my FREE Facebook group, Unf*ck Your Fitness
- Click HERE for my favorite fitness & life things!
More about the Unf*ck Your Fitness Podcast:
If you've tried all the fad diets and are sick and tired of not achieving your health and fitness goals long-term, you've come to the right place! Welcome to the Unf*ck Your Fitness Podcast with me, Kristy Castillo. I'm here to help you break the annoying diet cycle, gain confidence, and reach your health and fitness goals.
This podcast will show you how to be proud of the body you have, build the body you want, and enjoy the process along the way. I'll cover topics like how to get the most from your workouts, the importance of feeding your body what it needs, and key mindset shifts that will empower you. I've broken through the BS surrounding diet culture and built my dream body, all while being a busy wife, Mom and business owner, and I know you can too!
Connect with me on Instagram at @kristycastillofit
Learn more about working together by visiting my website: https://www.kristycastillo.com/