Muscle for Life

Do you deal with rest-day guilt? What’s with the marketing of essential amino acids? How can you start waking up earlier? Can HIIT replace the “10,000 steps rule”? How do you calculate your cutting macros if you’re nursing? These are just some of the questions I’m answering in this Q&A episode. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a burning question, follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and keep an eye out for these Q&A opportunities. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. --- Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:34 - What is the most you ever benched? 2:50 - Why do people market essential a

Aggressive dieting often has a negative connotation, but does it actually work for weight loss and muscle maintenance?  To delve into this topic and other aspects of nutrition science, I interview Martin MacDonald in this episode. Martin is a Clinical Performance Nutritionist, a senior lecturer at the Mac-Nutrition Uni (an evidence-based online nutrition course), and a renowned speaker in the realm of nutrition science. With his deep knowledge of nutrition science and experience in the field, Martin shares his perspectives on dieting and nutrition in this episode. In our conversation, Martin and I discuss . . . The concept of aggressive dieting and the evidence in its favor for weight loss and maintenance The impact of traditional calorie-restricted diets on muscle loss (and how to recover it) How to calculate your maximum calorie deficit The challenges of aggressive dieting and how to adopt a flexible approach The myths around muscle loss during weight loss and the reality behind it The nega

Many gym-goers want to know if using marijuana can interfere with their gains or negatively impact their progress. However, the controversial ban of American sprinter, Sha’Carri Richardson, from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics due to a positive marijuana test also ignited a global debate about whether weed can be performance-enhancing. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the scientific research surrounding marijuana and its potential impacts on athletic performance, muscle growth, strength, and endurance.  We'll discuss what marijuana is and evaluate its potential benefits and drawbacks in the context of athletic performance and bodybuilding. Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or someone interested in the science of fitness, this episode will provide you with evidence-based insights into the complex relationship between marijuana and fitness. --- Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:27 - What type of performance

In this installment of the Best of Muscle For Life, you’ll hear hand-picked clips from three popular MFL episodes: an interview with Dan John on quick, efficient strength training workouts, a monologue on whether taking naps can help you gain muscle and strength faster, and a motivational episode on doing the real work and developing skill over “hacks” and shortcuts.  Some people—my favorite people—listen to most or even all of my podcasts, but my wizbang analytics tell me that while many listeners tune in on a regular basis, they don’t catch every installment of Muscle for Life and thus miss out on insights that could help them do at least a little better inside and outside the gym. That’s why I do “best of” episodes that contain a few of the most practical and compelling ideas, tips, and moments from the more popular episodes I’ve published over the years. This way, you can learn interesting insights that you might have otherwise missed and find new episodes of the show to listen to. So, in this installment

What do “rest ethic,” goofing off, and Artificial Intelligence have in common?  This episode of the podcast is a bit different, but I think you’re going to enjoy it. In this interview, Kevin Kelly unwraps the art of living excellently in a world steered by technology.  Our discussion explores the intersections of AI, creativity, work, productivity, and even how rest plays a vital role in our lives. In case you’re not familiar with him, Kevin is the co-founder of Wired Magazine, influential writer, renowned futurist, and author of the new book Excellent Advice For Living.  I wanted to get him on the podcast because this book is absolutely chock-full of practical, easily-digestible nuggets of advice for living a more fulfilling life. And as a man who has spent decades envisioning the future, he has a unique perspective compared to other guests I’ve had on the show. This conversation covers a variety of topics such as . . . Kevin's motivation for writing Excellent Advice for Living The importance of balan

When the gym isn't an option, how do you stay in shape?  In this podcast, I’m sharing practical, science-backed strategies for keeping your fitness on track anywhere, anytime.  From enhancing your daily steps to nutritional tips, mastering home exercises, and even implementing a standing desk, you’re going to gain a new perspective on fitness that you can adopt no matter where you are.  Tune in to level up your fitness adaptability! Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 0:23 - It’s easier to maintain than to gain 1:22 - 10,000 Daily Steps 4:39 - Push ups and Pullups 5:38 - Sprints 7:01 - Handstand Pushups 7:53 - Pistol Squat 8:43 - Mile Time 9:29 - Rope Jumps 9:56 - Plank Times 10:09 - Flexibility 11:10 - Rucking 11:37 - The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/the-little-black-book-of-workout-motivation/ Mentioned on the Show: The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation is a bestsel

The world of anabolic steroids often seems shrouded in mystery and controversy.  In this episode, seasoned sports medicine and exercise scientist Dr. Guillermo Escalante aims to dispel some of those myths and clarify the complex topic of steroid use in bodybuilding and the health and fitness space. Together, we delve deep into understanding anabolic steroids, focusing on their potential implications, responsible usage, and strategies to mitigate associated risks.  Specifically, Dr. Escalante stresses the importance of taking an evidence-based approach to steroid usage. In case you’re not famiiliar with him, Dr. Escalante is a Professor of Kinesiology and Dean Fellow for the College of Natural Sciences at California State University San Bernardino. He has authored over 52 peer-reviewed publications, and regularly presents at regional, national, and international conferences on his research. He has also been a competitive bodybuilder and coach. In this conversation, Dr. Escalante and I discuss . . . What anab

Ever been baffled by uneven abs? Do you feel weaker during your period?  Can you enhance fat loss in your legs? What’re the pros and cons of fat grips? In this Q&A episode, we delve into a medley of topics including hypertrophy versus strength training for fat loss, deloading, squatting with long femurs, and much more. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a burning question, follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and keep an eye out for these Q&A opportunities. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 2:00 - What are you most afraid of? 2:27 - What is your opinio

Creatine is one of the most researched supplements in the fitness industry, yet myths and misconceptions still abound.  Is it safe for teenagers? Can endurance athletes benefit from it? Should you cycle it?  If these are the questions you've been pondering, you've come to the right place. In this episode, you’ll get answer to these questions and I’ll delve deeper into the myriad benefits of creatine. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness beginner, press play to learn how creatine supplements can help your fitness journey and get guidance on how to take it properly.  Timestamps:0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 0:55 - How does creatine work? 2:15 - How is creatine made? 3:32 - Which form of creatine is best? 4:52 - Can creatine expire? 5:18 - Is creatine bad for you? 8:32 - Does creatine need to be a powder or a capsule? 9:28 - Try Recharge today! Go to https://buylegion.com/recharge and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20%

What if you could train smarter, not harder? That’s the promise of auto-regulation, which you can use to increase autonomy and individualize your program, enhancing gains while staying injury-free. In this episode, we have fitness expert Luke Tulloch breaking down the concept of auto-regulation in resistance training. This approach tailors workouts to your physical and mental readiness, ensuring optimal results. Luke Tulloch is an online trainer and fitness educator with an in-depth understanding of exercise science. He uses his knowledge to help fitness professionals become better coaches by breaking down complex topics and teaching them in a simple way, and helping other personal trainers become more confident through education. Of course, he also knows how to help individuals make the most out of their workouts, and in this conversation, Luke and I discuss: The definition of auto-regulation in resistance training and how it increases autonomy and individualizes workouts. Practical tips for modifying yo

A topic that has piqued the interest of many gym-goers, and especially men who want defined, plate-of-armor pecs, is the lower chest. In the pursuit of a well-rounded, strong, and aesthetic chest, the lower chest often comes into discussion. However, its existence and importance are subjects of debate and confusion.  In this episode, I’ll bring clarity to the concept and explore the best ways to improve the lower chest area. Can the lower chest be emphasized in our training? And if so, what exercises work best for it?  If you've been pondering these questions, this episode holds the answers. Tune in as we delve into the intricacies of lower chest workouts, providing you with practical guidance for your training regimen.Timestamps:0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:16 - Is there such a thing as the lower chest? 8:02 - What is the best way to improve the lower chest area? 16:26 - Find the Perfect Strength Training Program for You: ⁠www.musc

Just as life challenges us with limited time, resources, and information, excellence demands a strategy beyond innate talent and colossal effort.  That's where Ron Friedman's Decoding Greatness comes into play, offering a new approach: deciphering greatness through reverse engineering the triumphs of others.  This book isn't just a collection of thought-provoking ideas; it's a practical toolbox filled with applicable tactics for your life's journey.  In this podcast, I’m sharing my top 10 insights from the book.  “Can you recommend a book for…?” “What are you reading right now?” “What are your favorite books?” I get asked those types of questions a lot and, as an avid reader and all-around bibliophile, I’m always happy to oblige. I also like to encourage people to read as much as possible because knowledge benefits you much like compound interest. The more you learn, the more you know; the more you know, the more you can do; the more you can do, the more opportunities you have to succeed.

Does protein before bed impact your sleep? How do you prevent muscle breakdown if you can only train fasted in the morning before breakfast? Will training 5 days per week give better results than 4 days per week? Are gluten allergies and intolerance real, or just another health fad? How long can someone use the program in Bigger Leaner Stronger and still make progress? All of that and more in this Q&A podcast. Over on Instagram, I’ve started doing weekly Q&As in the stories, and it occurred to me that many podcast listeners might enjoy hearing these questions and my short answers. So, instead of talking about one thing in an episode, I’m going to cover a variety of questions. And keep in mind some of these questions are just for fun. :) So if you want to ask me questions in my Instagram stories, follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness), and if I answer your question there, it might just make it onto an episode of the podcast! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@

What is hybrid training?  Well, that's exactly what you will learn about in this podcast interview with Dr. Alyssa Olenick.  At its core, hybrid training (also known as concurrent training in the scientific literature) is a fusion of strength and cardiovascular training.  Many people feel these types of training are at odds, but in this episode, you’re going to learn how hybrid training is not only possible, but can be complimenting, helping you excel in both strength and endurance. In case you’re not familiar with Alyssa, she’s an Exercise Physiologist, sports nutritionist, weight lifter, and ultra runner. And with her strong academic background, she’s dedicated herself to both the practical and theoretical sides of fitness, helping thousands of clients crush both their lifting goals and their race finish lines.  Her unique perspective combines the rigors of scientific research with practical, hands-on coaching experience. In chat, Alyssa and I discuss . . . The concept of hybrid training, blending s

The allure of testosterone booster supplements is obvious.  They’re a perennially popular topic because the promises are highly enticing, from giving you a surge of energy, to enhancing muscle growth, speeding up fat loss, and even aiding in quicker recovery post-workout. People also claim these supplements improve your sleep, uplift your mood, and even boost your sex drive. The purported benefits are so vast, these products often seem like a bargain, leading many to believe that even if they delivered just half of what's promised, it would still be worth the investment. So, I thought it was high time to record an updated episode on the current state of testosterone boosters.  In this episode, we're going to explore some of the most popular supplements currently available in the market that are reputed to increase testosterone levels.  Tune in because we'll discuss creatine, D-Aspartic Acid, ashwagandha, tongkat ali, zinc, boron, and more. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wh

In this installment of the Best of Muscle For Life, you’ll hear hand-picked clips from three popular MFL episodes: an interview with Nick, who used my coaching program to lose 19 pounds and 11% body fat in 90 days, a monologue on whether the benefits of deadlifting outweigh its risks, and a book club episode on Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose.  Some people—my favorite people—listen to most or even all of my podcasts, but my wizbang analytics tell me that while many listeners tune in on a regular basis, they don’t catch every installment of Muscle for Life and thus miss out on insights that could help them do at least a little better inside and outside the gym. That’s why I do “best of” episodes that contain a few of the most practical and compelling ideas, tips, and moments from the more popular episodes I’ve published over the years. This way, you can learn interesting insights that you might have otherwise missed and find new episodes of the show to listen to. So, in this installment of The Best of

Most diets, especially fad diets, are about restriction and what you can’t eat.  Of course, losing weight requires being in a calorie deficit, but what if there were specific foods you could eat more of that actually boost fat loss? That’s the idea behind Dr. William Li’s new anti-diet book, Eat to Beat Your Diet, which explores the relationship between body fat and metabolism, and why the food choices we make matter. In this episode, you’ll learn how specific foods can help burn excess body fat, why body fat plays a crucial role in our health and how it influences our hormones, the importance of micronutrients, the benefits of various vegetables, the impact of dietary choices on overall health, and a lot more.  In case you’re not familiar with Dr. Li, he’s an internationally renowned physician, scientist, and author of the New York Times bestseller Eat to Beat Disease, which I interviewed him about previously on the podcast. He’s also the president and medical director of the Angiogenesis Foundation, which i

Some people say they “don’t have time” to exercise, but watch an hour of Netflix every night.  Or they buy produce and watch it slowly wither in their fridge.  Or spend time looking for that game-changing supplement while only getting 5 hours of sleep per night.  Listen to this episode to find the motivation to start, develop habits, and ultimately win at your fitness journey. --- Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 0:54 - My award-winning fitness books for men and women: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/ --- Mentioned on the Show: My award-winning fitness books for men and women: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/

How do you go on vacation and enjoy yourself without losing progress or gaining body fat? How often should you adjust your calories while bulking or cutting?  How can you maintain your physique without counting macros or calories? Is it better to get 6 hours of sleep or get 5 hours of sleep to fit in a workout? Is one full-body workout per week enough to maintain muscle? All of that and more in this Q&A podcast. Over on Instagram, I’ve started doing weekly Q&As in the stories, and it occurred to me that many podcast listeners might enjoy hearing these questions and my short answers. So, instead of talking about one thing in an episode, I’m going to cover a variety of questions. And keep in mind some of these questions are just for fun. :) So if you want to ask me questions in my Instagram stories, follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness), and if I answer your question there, it might just make it onto an episode of the podcast! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mik