Episode 54

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Published on:

11th Aug 2025

Ep. 54: Bone Density, Fat Loss & Weighted Vests—What the Evidence Really Says

Are weighted vests the next must-have fitness tool—or just another overhyped trend? In this episode of The Fit Physician Podcast, Jake and Dr. Suzanne Rutherford tackle the growing buzz around weighted vests, especially in the women physician community. With social media flooded with influencers promoting their benefits for bone health, fat loss, and strength, Suzanne dives into the science to separate fact from fiction. They unpack what the evidence actually says about their effectiveness—particularly for midlife women navigating menopause and beyond—and why many of the claims being made don’t hold up under scrutiny.

Suzanne shares her personal experience with the vest, the potential risks to watch out for, and when—if ever—it makes sense to include in your routine. You’ll also learn why resistance training remains the gold standard for bone density and fat loss, and how to focus on sustainable strategies that truly move the needle for long-term health and confidence.

Studies referenced:


PMID 22338922

PMID10995045

PMID 946-743

PMID17724395

PMID 30540267

PLID30095153


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About the Podcast

The Fit Physician
Are you a busy woman in medicine looking to take your fitness and nutrition to the next level to thrive in all aspects of your life? Look no further! Welcome to The Fit Physician podcast.

As women in medicine, it’s your nature to care for others, often at the expense of your own physical and mental well-being. This can go on for months, even years. It’s time to put an end to this narrative, for all women physicians! And it starts now, with you, and The Fit Physician podcast!

Hosted by Jake Wright, BSc, a women’s fitness specialist with over 15 years of experience and joining him is, Dr. Suzanne Rutherford, MD, a practicing physician with an undergraduate degree in nutritional sciences. You’d be hard pressed to find two experts more passionate about empowering women physicians to live life to the fullest through prioritizing health and fitness.

Suzanne & Jake have dedicated the past 6 years transforming the lives of 100s of women in medicine such as yourself. Their passion for inspiring physicians shines through every episode, sharing stories, insights, expert advice, and providing actionable steps to prioritize yourself guilt-free.

So, if you're a busy woman physician ready to break free from the constraints of guilt, elevate your health, and become the best version of yourself, join Jake and Suzanne on The Fit Physician podcast. They're not just coaches; they're your partners in this transformative journey towards a life where you thrive, unapologetically.

Dr. Suzanne Rutherford, MD (Instagram: @slmmd1976)

Search the globe and it will be hard to find someone more dedicated to women physicians health & well-being than Suzanne.

A practicing physician, Suzanne combines her medical expertise with a foundation in nutritional sciences from her undergraduate studies.

Her passion lies in evidence-based nutrition and empowering fellow women physicians to embrace strength, health, and confidence in their own skin.

Suzanne doesn’t just talk the talk. After completing medical school and welcoming her second child into the world, she found herself facing personal health and fitness challenges that left her feeling like a stranger within her own body.

Determined to make a change, Suzanne rekindled her knowledge of nutrition while introducing strength training into her weekly routine.

The result? She lost over 30 lbs, has kept it off, and feels better in her 40s than she did in her 20s!

Now she spends the better part of her professional career helping other busy women physicians to achieve similar life-altering results.


Jake Wright, BSc

(Instagram: @thefitphysiciancoach Facebook: Jake Wright Facebook page: The Fit Physician Coach)

Meet Jake, also known as The Fit Physician Coach.

Jake’s experience includes a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology, over 15+ years as a women's fitness specialist, along with several advanced certifications in strength and condition, nutrition, and joint health.

For the past 6 years and counting, Jake has spent his career dedicated to inspiring busy women physicians to overcome barriers with time, energy, and the demands of their profession, to build a sustainable fitness routine that delivers life-changing results.

What separates Jake from the pack is not his education or his experience but his compassion.

Jake's gift is guiding women to discover strength they never thought possible. In turn, helping them to build confidence in the gym, in their bodies, and in every other aspect of their life.

About your host

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Jake Wright