Today, we explore a radical rethinking of fitness—one that challenges the belief that more time in the gym equals better results.

I sat down with Andrei Yakovenko, founder of New Element Training and co-author of Deep Fitness, to uncover the science, philosophy, and purpose behind his 30-minute-per-week workout method. What started as a personal passion transformed into a thriving movement based on high-effort, low-frequency strength training—designed to build muscle, strengthen bones, and increase longevity, especially for people over 40.

In this conversation, we unpack Andrei’s courageous leap from geophysics to fitness entrepreneurship, the importance of training to muscle failure, and how mindful embodiment creates not just physical change, but a whole new way of living. We talk about aging with strength, trusting your inner calling, and building a lifestyle that supports deep, lasting vitality.

Topics We Explore:

• Breaking free from success to follow purpose and passion
• The science behind Deep Fitness and muscle failure training
• Transforming strength and longevity with 30-minute weekly workouts
• Designing safe, sustainable fitness for every stage of life
• Reframing fitness as a mindful, embodied lifestyle

Connect with Andrei Yakovenko: https://www.newelementtraining.com/ 

Learn More about The Viking Academy: https://www.vikingacademy.com