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  • Episode #375: The Sarcopenia Deep Dive- Why It's Not Just Muscle Loss (And How to Stop It)
    Episode Summary: Dynapenia, Motor Neurons, and the FirewallIn this episode, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum and Dr. Austin Baraki redefine sarcopenia, shifting the focus from simple age-related muscle size loss (atrophy) to the more critical loss of muscle strength and power (dynapenia), a process that starts in the 40s. They explain the profound pathophysiology: sarcopenia is primarily a neurological event caused by the death of high-threshold motor neurons, leading to the selective loss of fast-twitch (Type II) muscle fibers. This explains why strength declines 3x faster than size.The hosts detail the modern diagnostic framework—prioritizing functional tests like the sit-to-stand test over late-stage mass measurements. They provide the definitive, evidence-based management plan: lifelong heavy resistance training is non-negotiable as it acts as a firewall against motor neuron death. The episode concludes with a debunking of common myths (e.g., "walking is enough," "muscle turns to fat," "lifting heavy is unsafe for the elderly") and practical advice on optimizing protein and creatine use to combat anabolic resistance.⭐ Get More Value: Exclusive Content and ResourcesWant to support the show and get early, ad-free access to all episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Subscribe to Barbell Medicine Plus and get ad-free listening, product discounts, and more. Try it free for 30-days.Unsure which training plan is right for you? Take the free Barbell Medicine Template Quiz to be matched with the ideal program for your goals and experience level.For media, support, or general questions, please contact us at [email protected] TakeawaysSarcopenia is a Neurological Problem: The primary cause is the death of high-threshold alpha motor neurons, leading to the selective loss of fast-twitch (Type II) muscle fibers—the fibers responsible for power, speed, and fall prevention. This explains why strength (dynapenia) declines 3x faster than muscle size.Diagnosis Must Be Functional: Waiting for a doctor to diagnose sarcopenia via a muscle mass measurement (like a DEXA scan) is too late. Modern guidelines prioritize functional tests like grip strength and the sit-to-stand test as early warning signs, as muscle can be normal-sized but still dysfunctional.Resistance Training is the Firewall: Lifelong heavy resistance training slows motor neuron loss by 300% compared to the general population. Walking is not enough; only challenging resistance work sends the necessary signals (mechanotransduction) to preserve these critical motor neurons and Type II fibers.Nutrition for Treatment: For individuals diagnosed with sarcopenia, managing anabolic resistance is key. This requires attention to protein timing: consume a good dose of high-quality protein (rich in essential amino acids) at each meal. Supplementing with a third-party tested whey protein and 3-5g of creatine daily may be beneficial.Safety & Risk: The risk of injury from lifting weights, even heavy weights, in the elderly population is relatively low (2-4 injuries per 1,000 participation hours) and is greatly outweighed by the risk of immobility, falls, and subsequent complications.Episode Timestamps0:00 Introduction: The Silent Epidemic and Dynapenia8:50 Defining Sarcopenia: Why Size Alone is Misleading (The Green Banana Analogy)17:37 Epidemiology and Sarcopenic Obesity23:39 Screening Tools: SARC-F, Sit-to-Stand Test, and When to Screen40:53 Pathophysiology: Why Sarcopenia is a Neurological Event42:28 Motor Neuron Death and Selective Type II Fiber Loss52:33 The Problem of Anabolic Resistance53:16 Management and Prevention Strategies57:20 Exercise Prescription (The "Why" and "How" of Resistance Training)1:10:44 Nutritional Strategy (Protein Boluses and Supplements)1:16:21 Sarcopenia Myths: Walking, Muscle Turning to Fat, and SafetySection I: Sarcopenia Redefined—A Failure of the Nervous SystemDynapenia and the Shift in Diagnostic FocusThe episode establishes that sarcopenia must be understood as a problem of dynapenia (loss of strength and power) first, not just muscle size. Historically, the term, coined in 1989, focused on flesh poverty (Sarc-o-penia), but data quickly revealed that strength declines 3x faster than muscle mass. Old guidelines prioritized size, leading to a paradox: people with normal-sized muscles were still experiencing falls and fractures.The modern framework, driven by groups like the European Working Group, prioritizes functional outcomes. Waiting for a diagnosis via muscle size (like a DEXA scan measurement) means intervention is often too late. Muscle quality—the force produced per unit mass—declines dramatically due to neurological and cellular changes, even if the muscle maintains its volume through fat or water infiltration.The Pathophysiology: Alpha Motor Neuron DeathThe root cause of dynapenia is primarily neurogenic atrophy.Motor Neuron Loss: As individuals age, the high-threshold alpha motor neurons that innervate fast-twitch (Type II) muscle fibers begin to die (a process that can start in the 40s).Fiber Type Conversion: When a high-threshold neuron dies, a neighboring low-threshold (slow-twitch) neuron attempts to rescue the abandoned Type II muscle fiber. The fiber survives but is converted into a slow-twitch (Type I) fiber.Loss of Power: Since Type II fibers are responsible for rapid force production, the selective loss and conversion of these fibers means the individual loses speed and power, severely compromising the ability to perform activities like quickly rising from a chair or catching oneself during a trip (the righting reflex). This is why falls and subsequent hip fractures become common.Sarcopenic ObesityA particularly dangerous presentation is sarcopenic obesity, where a person carries both a significant amount of fat mass and poor muscle function. While individuals with obesity generally carry more lean mass, the fat infiltration (lipotoxicity) into the muscle tissue exacerbates anabolic resistance and insulin resistance, making the muscle dysfunctional and resistant to training and nutritional signals. This combination significantly compounds the risks of immobility and mortality.Section II: Management, Prevention, and Training PrescriptionResistance Training is the FirewallThe primary goal of intervention is prevention, as lost motor neurons cannot be regrown. Resistance training acts as a firewall against further motor neuron death.Mechanotransduction: Challenging resistance work sends necessary signals back to the motor neurons, signaling that the muscle fibers are still needed, slowing the rate of death.Evidence: Lifelong lifters show a neurogenic decline of only 0.35% per year, compared to the general population's decline of 1% per year—a 300% slower rate of loss. Walking is not enough to achieve this protective effect, as endurance athletes still show evidence of Type II fiber loss.Exercise Prescription: The Physical 401KFor prevention, the goal is to fully fund the "physical 401K." This means exceeding the minimum physical activity guidelines:Resistance Training: At least twice a week, training all major muscle groups.Cardio: Aim for double the minimum (e.g., 300 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per week).Progression: Individuals should build a big base of fitness, allowing them to be more aggressive with training load and resilient against co-morbidities later in life.For individuals with a diagnosis of sarcopenia (secondary prevention/treatment), the training emphasis shifts:Intensity is Non-Negotiable: Lifts must be challenging and performed with the intent of moving the load quickly to stimulate remaining Type II fibers.Start Lower, Progress Gradually: The population is more vulnerable to over-dosing due to chronic disuse. Start with a lower total volume but ensure progression is gradual and consistent.Type: While barbells are fine, machine-based training (e.g., leg press) may be a less intimidating entry point and can allow for higher training loads by mitigating the balance/fall risk of free weights.Section III: Nutrition, Supplements, and MythsCombating Anabolic Resistance with ProteinAnabolic resistance—the reduced responsiveness of muscle to nutritional signals—is prevalent in sarcopenia. To overcome this, the focus should be on protein timing and quality:Total Intake: Aim for 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day (0.6 to 0.8g per pound).Protein Bolus: Ensure each meal contains a significant bolus of high-quality protein, rich in essential amino acids, to maximize the anabolic signal. This is critical for individuals whose appetite is often low.Supplements: A third-party tested whey protein supplement can be a useful tool for those who struggle to meet targets. Creatine (3-5g/day) is also strongly advised due to data supporting its benefit in improving lean mass and functional outcomes like the sit-to-stand test.Sarcopenia Myths Debunked (The Safety of Lifting)Myth: Walking is enough. Fact: No. Walking does not provide the challenging stimulus required to save high-threshold motor neurons and Type II fibers.Myth: Muscle turns to fat. Fact: No. Muscle and fat are distinct tissues. However, chronic disuse leads to fat infiltration into the muscle (lipotoxicity), which impairs function.Myth: It's unsafe to lift heavy after 60. Fact: The risk of injury from lifting weights in the elderly is relatively low (2-4 injuries per 1,000 participation hours) and is greatly outweighed by the high risk of immobility, falls, and subsequent complications caused by inactivity.Myth: GLP-1 agonists (Ozempic/Wegovy) cause sarcopenia. Fact: This is hysteria. Data does not support excessive muscle loss, and the benefit of reducing obesity-related risks far outweighs the low risk of muscle loss when coupled with resistance training.ReferencesAdulkasem, Nath et al. “Evaluation of the Diagnosis Accuracy of the AWGS 2019 Criteria for "Possible Sarcopenia" in Thai Community-Dwelling Older Adults.” Clinical interventions in aging vol. 20 425-433. 9 Apr. 2025, doi:10.2147/CIA.S513657Ahtianen 2016 (Implied: Ahtianen, Juha P et al. “Effects of high-load vs. moderate-load resistance training on muscle hypertrophy and strength gain in younger and older men.” Journal of applied physiology 120.3 (2016): 481-487)Alan A Aragon, Kevin D Tipton, Brad J Schoenfeld, Age-related muscle anabolic resistance: inevitable or preventable?, Nutrition Reviews, Volume 81, Issue 4, April 2023, Pages 441–454, https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuac062Allen, M.D., Power, G.A., Filion, M.E., Doherty, T.J., Rice, C.L., Taivassalo, T. and Hepple, R.T. (2013), Motor unit number estimates in world-class masters athletes: is 80 the new 60?. The FASEB Journal, 27: 1150.1-1150.1. https://doi.org/10.1096/fasebj.27.1_supplement.1150.1Andreo-López, María Carmen et al. “Prevalence of Sarcopenia and Dynapenia and Related Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.” Nutrients vol. 15,23 4914. 24 Nov. 2023, doi:10.3390/nu15234914Anoohya Gandham, Giulia Gregori, Lisa Johansson, Helena Johansson, Nicholas C Harvey, Liesbeth Vandenput, Eugene McCloskey, John A Kanis, Henrik Litsne, Kristian Axelsson, Mattias Lorentzon, Sarcopenia definitions and their association with fracture risk in older Swedish women, Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, Volume 39, Issue 4, April 2024, Pages 453–461, https://doi.org/10.1093/jbmr/zjae026Bahat, G et al. “Performance of SARC-F in Regard to Sarcopenia Definitions, Muscle Mass and Functional Measures.” The journal of nutrition, health & aging vol. 22,8 (2018): 898-903. doi:10.1007/s12603-018-1067-8Bhasin, Shalender et al. “Sarcopenia Definition: The Position Statements of the Sarcopenia Definition and Outcomes Consortium.” Journal of the American Geriatrics Society vol. 68,7 (2020): 1410-1418. doi:10.1111/jgs.16372Brook 2016 (Implied: Brook, Mitchell S et al. “Novel approaches to assess muscle protein turnover.” The American journal of clinical nutrition 103.3 (2016): 658-69)Canal de Velasco, Luis M et al. “Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Men Aged 50 and Above: A Narrative Review of Evidence-Based Benefits, Safety Considerations, and Clinical Recommendations.” Cureus vol. 17,9 e92538. 17 Sep. 2025, doi:10.7759/cureus.92538Candow, Darren G et al. “Effectiveness of Creatine Supplementation on Aging Muscle and Bone: Focus on Falls Prevention and Inflammation.” Journal of clinical medicine vol. 8,4 488. 11 Apr. 2019, doi:10.3390/jcm8040488Clark, Brian C, and Todd M Manini. “Sarcopenia =/= dynapenia.” The journals of gerontology. 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Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences vol. 78,Suppl 1 (2023): 8-13. doi:10.1093/gerona/glad029Clark and Taylor 2011 (Implied: Clark, Brian C, and Jessica L Taylor. “The potential for neuromuscular adaptations to prevent age-related muscle weakness.” Exercise and sport sciences reviews vol. 39.3 (2011): 120-7)Cruz-Jentoft, Alfonso J et al. “Sarcopenia: revised European consensus on definition and diagnosis.” Age and ageing vol. 48,4 (2019): 601. doi:10.1093/ageing/afz046Currier BS, Mcleod JC, Banfield L, et alResistance training prescription for muscle strength and hypertrophy in healthy adults: a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysisBritish Journal of Sports Medicine 2023;57:1211-1220.Cuthbertson et al., 2005 (Implied: Cuthbertson, Don et al. “An oral dose of leucine, but not an isonitrogenous mixture of essential amino acids, stimulates muscle protein synthesis in older women.” The American journal of clinical nutrition 83.3 (2006): 621-8)de Vos, Nathan J et al. “Optimal load for increasing muscle power during explosive resistance training in older adults.” The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences vol. 60,5 (2005): 638-47. doi:10.1093/gerona/60.5.638 (Appears twice)Delbono 2011 (Implied: Delbono, Osvaldo. “Neural control of muscle aging.” Aging clinical and experimental research 23.4 (2011): 278-83)Delmonico 2009 (Implied: Delmonico, Matthew J et al. “Longitudinal changes in muscle strength and mass in older adults.” The American journal of clinical nutrition 90.6 (2009): 1579-85)Dent, E et al. “International Clinical Practice Guidelines for Sarcopenia (ICFSR): Screening, Diagnosis and Management.” The journal of nutrition, health & aging vol. 22,10 (2018): 1148-1161. doi:10.1007/s12603-018-1139-9Deutz, Nicolaas E P et al. “Protein intake and exercise for optimal muscle function with aging: recommendations from the ESPEN Expert Group.” Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland) vol. 33,6 (2014): 929-36. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2014.04.007Dungan, Cory M. “Less is more: the role of mTORC1 activation in the progression of ageing-mediated anabolic resistance.” The Journal of physiology vol. 595,9 (2017): 2781-2782. doi:10.1113/JP274154Francaux, Marc et al. “Aging Reduces the Activation of the mTORC1 Pathway after Resistance Exercise and Protein Intake in Human Skeletal Muscle: Potential Role of REDD1 and Impaired Anabolic Sensitivity.” Nutrients vol. 8,1 47. 15 Jan. 2016, doi:10.3390/nu8010047Frontera et al. 2000 (Implied: Frontera, Walter R et al. “Strength training and determinants of strength development in older adults.” Medicine and science in sports and exercise 32.1 (2000): 64-9)Gallagher 1997 (Implied: Gallagher, Dympna et al. “Visceral fat is associated with increased $\beta$-adrenergic-stimulated lipolysis in elderly humans.” The American journal of physiology. 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Findings from the ELSI-Brazil Study.” Cadernos de saude publica vol. 41,5 e00155624. 27 Jun. 2025, doi:10.1590/0102-311XEN155624Marcell 2014 (Implied: Marcell, Timothy J et al. “Physical activity prevents age-related loss of muscle mass and strength in healthy older adults.” The American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism 307.3 (2014): E356-62)Matthew D. L. O'Connell, Stephen A. Roberts, Upendram Srinivas-Shankar, Abdelouahid Tajar, Martin J. Connolly, Judith E. Adams, Jackie A. Oldham, Frederick C. W. 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  • 🔓 PLUS PREVIEW: When to Push Through Pain, Pre-Exhaustion Training, and Conquering Cravings
    Episode Summary This is a preview of our subscriber-only Ask Us Anything episode, where Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum and Dr. Austin Baraki tackle the most persistent problems in training and nutrition. Hear the science behind managing pain in the gym—determining the threshold for acceptable discomfort versus a true programming error. They also analyze why short-term study findings often fail in the real world, cover the science of pre-exhaust training, and give practical advice on the psychology of managing dietary cravings when transitioning to a healthier diet. Takeaways Pain Threshold: Learn the 3/10 rule for pain in training: low-level, self-limiting discomfort is common, but anything more should be addressed.Programming Fix: Recurrent pain (e.g., every 5-6 weeks) is often a programming issue caused by a lack of training tolerance, not a technique fault. The solution is modifying the total load, not just changing your form.Training Philosophy: Stop "pushing" harder every session. The best way to progress is to wait for fitness to show up (the lift feels easier) before increasing the load.Pre-Exhaust Science: Find out why techniques like leg extensions before squats are suboptimal for both strength and hypertrophy because they compromise the necessary total training load.Cravings Are Transient: The intense difficulty experienced when switching from ultra-processed, hyper-palatable foods to home-cooked meals is normal (hedonic adaptation) and transient. Understanding that this discomfort will fade is key to long-term adherence.⏱️ Preview Timestamps00:00 Introduction & Plus Subscriber Offer00:40 How Often Should I Feel Pain in Training? (Pain Threshold & Training Tolerance)09:31 The Science of Pre-Exhaust Training (Why it compromises total load)16:54 Managing Dietary Cravings When Switching Habits (Hedonic Adaptation)27:49 Conclusion: Barbell Medicine Plus Offer🔓 Unlock the Full Episode & Exclusive BenefitsThe topics above are only a fraction of what's covered in the full Ask Us Anything episode, which also includes:How to structure high-intensity conditioning intervals and why heart rate is often a poor metric.The science behind Powerlifting peaking and tapering for non-elite athletes.The latest, large-scale meta-analysis on Vitamin D and respiratory infections and why the real-world benefit is highly modest.A full discussion on the discrepancy between short-term studies and real-world results in diet and exercise.Subscribe Today to Barbell Medicine PlusWhen you join Barbell Medicine Plus, you get the full ad-free episode, access to our bonus content library, and major discounts:25% off all courses and seminars15% off consultations10% off all our programsWant to support the show and get early, ad-free access to all episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Subscribe to Barbell Medicine Plus and get ad-free listening, product discounts, and more. Try it free for 30-days.Unsure which training plan is right for you? Take the free Barbell Medicine Template Quiz to be matched with the ideal program for your goals and experience level.For media, support, or general questions, please contact us at [email protected]It is normal and acceptable for lifters to experience low-level, self-limiting discomfort during training. The threshold for acceptable pain is generally considered to be less than 3/10 on the pain scale, provided the discomfort is not sharp, does not cause fear, and is gone within 24 to 48 hours.The real warning sign is recurrent pain—when the same tweak flares up every 5 to 6 weeks. This is typically not a technique fault but a programming issue—the lifter is demanding more from their body than their current training tolerance allows. The solution is usually to reduce the overall training load, modify the volume/intensity, and rebuild capacity gradually.www.barbellmedicine.com/blog/training-with-pain-a-practical-approachwww.barbellmedicine.com/blog/the-barbell-medicine-guide-to-tendinopathy Shrier, I. (2004). Does stretching help prevent injuries? Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine. DOI: {10.1097/00042752-200405000-00002} (Review discussing prior injury as a key risk factor).Gabbett, T. J. (2016). The training—injury prevention paradox: should athletes be training smarter and harder? British Journal of Sports Medicine. DOI: {10.1136/bjsports-2016-096319} (Discusses role of prior injury and training load).Siewe et al. (2014). Injuries in powerlifting: how common are they and what are their causes? Sports Medicine - Open. DOI: {10.1186/s40798-014-0016-x} (Epidemiology and common injury sites in powerlifting).Calhoon, N. L., & Fry, A. C. (1999). Injury rates and profiles of elite competitive weightlifters. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. DOI: {10.1519/00124278-199902000-00010} (Injury rates in weightlifting).Raske, Å., & Norlin, R. (2002). Injury incidence and prevalence among elite weight and powerlifters. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports. DOI: {10.1034/j.1600-0838.2002.01188.x} (Injury sites in powerlifting).Nijs et al. (2014). Treatment of central sensitization in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain: new insights and practical implications. Physical Therapy. DOI: {10.2522/ptj.20130360} (Discusses non-mechanical factors like stress on pain).Pre-ExhaustionThe technique of pre-exhastion training (e.g., leg extensions before squats) is generally suboptimal for both strength and hypertrophy.Compromised Load: Pre-fatiguing the muscle compromises the ability to perform the subsequent compound lift with high intensity and high volume, thereby reducing the total training load. This directly hurts both muscle growth (less mechanical tension) and strength (less high-fidelity force production).Limited Use Case: This technique is primarily useful in rehab (as a load-limiting or desensitization tool) or for highly specific muscular endurance challenges (e.g., preparing for certain high-rep CrossFit workouts).https://www.barbellmedicine.com/blog/how-to-exercise-when-you-have-no-time/ (training load preservation)Schoenfeld, B. J., et al. (2018). Differential effects of attentional focus strategies during long-term resistance training. European Journal of Sport Science. DOI:10.1080/17461391.2018.1500632 (Discusses mind-muscle connection effectiveness).Schoenfeld, B. J. (2010). The mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and their application to resistance training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181e840f3(Reviews mechanical tension as the primary driver).Fisher, J. P., et al. (2013). The effects of pre-exhaustion, exercise order, and rest intervals in resistance training. Journal of Applied Sports Science Reports. DOI: 10.1016/j.jassr.2013.06.002 (Discusses pre-exhaustion's impact on load).Gentil, P., et al. (2007). Effect of exercise order on upper-body strength and muscle thickness in untrained men. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. DOI: 10.1519/R-20415.1 (Found pre-exhaustion did not enhance hypertrophy over traditional training).CravingsSwitching from ultra-processed, hyper-palatable foods (e.g., pizza, fast food) to a whole-food, home-cooked diet involves temporary challenges due to hedonic adaptation (the brain is adapting away from high food reward).The difficulty of managing cravings is complex. Switching is often easier when the body is in an energy surplus (biologically supported).The tension and cravings intensify when the lifter moves into a calorie deficit, activating biological defense mechanisms (hormonal signaling increases hunger). Recognizing that the acute cravings are transient is crucial for maintaining self-efficacy and adherence, as it reinforces the belief that the new, healthier habit will eventually become easier.https://www.barbellmedicine.com/blog/how-to-eat-a-healthy-diet/ https://www.barbellmedicine.com/blog/how-to-train-while-losing-weight/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYeh1xTnlxU&themeRefresh=1 https://www.barbellmedicine.com/blog/does-your-metabolism-change-with-weight-loss/  Rosenbaum, M., & Leibel, R. L. (2010). Adaptive thermogenesis in humans. International Journal of Obesity. DOI: {10.1038/ijo.2010.184}Considine, R. V. (2012). Leptin and the regulation of body weight. The Journal of Clinical Investigation. DOI: {10.1172/JCI65051}Sumithran, P., et al. (2011). Long-term persistence of hormonal adaptations to weight loss. New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: {10.1056/NEJMoa1005813}Finlayson, G., et al. (2011). The role of palatability in appetite regulation. Journal of Physiology and Behavior. DOI: {10.1016/j.physbeh.2011.08.016} Lally, P., et al. (2010). How are habits formed: modelling habit formation in the real world. European Journal of Social Psychology. DOI: {10.1002/ejsp.674}Baumeister, R. F., et al. (1998). Ego depletion: Is the active self a limited resource? Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. DOI: {10.1037/0022-3514.74.5.1252}Spiegel, K., et al. (2004). Brief sleep restriction alters the neuroendocrine profile of ghrelin and leptin. Annals of Internal Medicine. DOI: {10.7326/0003-4811-141-11-200412070-00008}Our Sponsors:* Check out Express VPN: https://expressvpn.com/BBM* Check out FIGS and use my code FIGSRX for a great deal: https://wearfigs.com* Check out Factor and use my code bbm50off for a great deal: https://www.factor75.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/bbm* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/barbell-medicine-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  • Q&A: Cholesterol Lowering, Volume vs. Intensity For Hypertrophy Volume, Zone 2 Efficiency, and More
    Barbell Medicine Q&A: Cholesterol, Hypertrophy Volume, and Training EfficiencyEpisode SummaryIn this Q&A session, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum addresses listener questions on optimizing training, managing health metrics, and navigating supplement use. Key topics include the latest evidence on cholesterol management (statins vs. PCSK9 inhibitors), why routine Vitamin D supplementation is usually unnecessary, and the mechanics of hypertrophy, emphasizing that volume is superior to intensity once a functional threshold is met. Dr. Feigenbaum also offers practical coaching advice on dynamic volume regulation, the importance of efficiency in the deadlift, and why training models like Pilates do not offer the same benefits as traditional strength work.⏱️ Episode Timestamps00:00 Introduction00:43 Cholesterol Lowering Medication (Statins vs. PCSK9 Inhibitors)03:27 Volume vs. Intensity for Hypertrophy06:48 Regulating Training Volume and the 5% Rule11:43 Barbell Medicine Supplement Philosophy and Safety14:14 Pilates as a Training Modality16:31 Is Zone 2 Cardio Really That Amazing?⭐ Get More Value: Exclusive Content and ResourcesWant to support the show and get early, ad-free access to all episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Subscribe to Barbell Medicine Plus and get ad-free listening, product discounts, and more. Try it free for 30-days.Unsure which training plan is right for you? Take the free Barbell Medicine Template Quiz to be matched with the ideal program for your goals and experience level.For media, support, or general questions, please contact us at [email protected]⚕️ Section I: Clinical and Healthspan OptimizationCholesterol Management: The Lower is Better PhilosophyThe core principle of managing atherogenic risk is that the risk of heart disease is proportional to the overall lifetime exposure (level $\times$ duration) to atherogenic lipoproteins, specifically LDL, triglycerides, and particles tagged with Apolipoprotein B (ApoB). These particles constitute the "atherogenic load."Lowering this load is beneficial, and the data suggests that lower is better for cardiovascular health. While powerful medications like PCSK9 inhibitors offer an immense magnitude of cholesterol lowering and are proven for both primary and secondary prevention of major adverse cardiac events, the general population will often achieve substantial risk reduction with statins or statin/ezetimibe combinations, which are more accessible and cost-effective.This approach is validated by observing individuals with genetic mutations who maintain low cholesterol levels throughout their lives—they demonstrate the lowest risk of heart disease, period. Therefore, for active lifters seeking to optimize healthspan and longevity, the goal should be active management and mitigation of this exposure. This requires understanding how to interpret blood work for active lifters and working with a physician to find the most appropriate and sustainable treatment plan, which may include setting targets to lower LDL cholesterol to near-neonatal levels.Vitamin D Supplementation: Questioning the Routine RecommendationRoutine, widespread Vitamin D supplementation for the general, otherwise healthy population is generally not recommended due to a lack of strong evidence showing that replacing low levels improves actual health outcomes. While low Vitamin D levels frequently coexist with various medical conditions, simply replacing the vitamin doesn't mitigate the primary disease trajectory.The potential risks of routine supplementation, though low, include supplement contamination and the risk of overdosing (leading to unwanted calcium deposits). Unless an individual has a specific medical condition (like chronic kidney disease, severe malabsorption issues, or high risk of fall and fracture due to osteoporosis), the benefits of routine supplementation are questionable. Barbell Medicine favors interventions where the clinical benefit is clearly demonstrated to improve meaningful health outcomes, not just laboratory values.🏋️ Section II: Hypertrophy and Training Load OptimizationVolume is the Dose: The Hypertrophy PrincipleThe relationship between resistance training and hypertrophy (muscle growth) is a dose-dependent relationship on volume, provided a functional threshold is met. This threshold means training must involve a load greater than approximately 30% of a lifter's one-rep maximum (1RM) and be taken relatively close to failure (around 4-5 repetitions left in reserve, RIR).Advising low volume training to failure, as some influencers do, is sub-optimal for muscle growth because it generates insufficient total training load. Once a lifter has achieved this functional threshold, volume is superior to intensity. High training volume is optimal for muscle growth, and only when volume has been maximized does pulling the intensity lever (training even closer to failure) provide an additional, albeit smaller, benefit.Optimal hypertrophy and how to structure a strength program for longevity relies on maximizing training load—the total volume of effective work—within the constraints of a person's time and physiological tolerance.Dynamic Volume Regulation and The 5% RuleCoaching requires dynamic volume regulation—adjusting the training plan based on a person's current performance and recovery status. One method is to use RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) caps to autoregulate volume within a session. For example, prescribing back-off sets that terminate once the prescribed RPE is reached means a lifter performs more work on a good day and less work on a slow day, ensuring sufficient training stimulus without causing excessive fatigue or burnout.For long-term progression, true strength gain must exceed day-to-day performance fluctuations. A strength gain greater than $\pm 5\%$ over a multi-week period is considered a "real" or minimal clinically important difference in strength. Tracking this trend, rather than session-to-session RPE, is how a coach determines whether to increase the overall training load, which is necessary to continue achieving fitness adaptations.🧘 Section III: Training Modalities and ApplicationsDeadlift Technique: Efficiency Over Absolute NeutralityThe belief that any slight movement in the thoracic or lumbar spine during a heavy deadlift is uniquely injurious is not supported by evidence. The human body is highly adaptable, provided the training load is progressed gradually.The primary coaching concern is not achieving an absolute "neutral spine" (which is difficult to define and rarely achieved in heavy lifting) but maintaining efficiency. Excessive spinal movement can compromise the lockout, making the lift harder than necessary. Coaching should focus on improving the efficiency of the lift to maximize the load that can be lifted strongly, not reducing an overstated injury risk.Pilates: Recreation, Not Resistance TrainingPilates is generally not a valuable addition to an individual's training if the goal is to drive the primary adaptations of resistance training: increases in strength, hypertrophy, muscle function, or bone mineral density.Pilates is simply not designed to apply the necessary loading stress to the musculoskeletal system to achieve these benefits. It is best viewed as an enjoyable recreational activity or accouterment, not a replacement for "real exercise." For individuals seeking true physical adaptations, the focus should remain on evidence-based resistance training for older adults and other populations that meet or exceed the established physical activity guidelines.Zone 2 Cardio: Efficiency and ApplicationWhile Zone 2 cardio is popular, it is not a panacea. Evidence shows that vigorous physical activity (higher intensity work, Zone 3/Zone 4) is actually more efficient for disease risk reduction than moderate intensity (Zone 2).Zone 2 work is most useful for individuals performing high volumes of conditioning (three or more hours per week), as it allows them to accumulate volume without causing undue systemic fatigue. For most people performing less than 150 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per week, incorporating more vigorous work is the most time-efficient way to achieve health benefits.Our Sponsors:* Check out Express VPN: https://expressvpn.com/BBM* Check out FIGS and use my code FIGSRX for a great deal: https://wearfigs.com* Check out Factor and use my code bbm50off for a great deal: https://www.factor75.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/bbm* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/barbell-medicine-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  • Episode #374: Mental Strategies: Neuroscience, Visualization, and Developing Resilience with Anne-Sophie Fluri
     Mental Strategies: Neuroscience, Visualization, and Developing ResilienceEpisode Summary: Training Your Brain for Performance and HealthDr. Jordan Feigenbaum welcomes Anne-Sophie Fluri, a neuroscientist with a background in experimental neuroscience and Parkinson's disease research, who now runs Brain Wave, focusing on mental fitness and performance workshops.This episode leverages Anne-Sophie's expertise to discuss powerful mental strategies applicable to life, stress management, and athletic performance. The conversation provides an evidence-based breakdown of meditation (what it is and what it isn't), the neurological mechanisms behind visualization (process vs. outcome imagery), and how these practices contribute to mental resilience and improved self-efficacy—a core component of the Barbell Medicine definition of health.⏱️ Episode Timestamps[00:00] Introduction, Guest Background, and Barbell Medicine Plus Offer[00:41] What is Anne-Sophie currently focusing on at Brain Wave[04:41] Meditation: What it is (and isn't) & Training Attentional Focus[08:31] Why people start meditating (Sleep issues, anxiety, stress relief)[12:28] Legitimate Health Benefits of Meditation (Focus, stress, health behaviors)[19:35] Meditation in Sport and Performance Enhancement[23:14] How to Start Meditating Today (Apps, YouTube, and the 5-minute approach)[33:30] II. Visualization: Mental Imagery and Performance Rehearsal[35:04] Visualization in Sport (F1, Michael Phelps, and mentally rehearsing failure)[37:02] Process vs. Outcome Visualization & Multi-sensory Engagement[43:03] How to Start Visualization Practices (Aphantasia caveat)[46:47] The Power of Immediacy and Mind-Muscle Connection[56:48] III. Mental Resilience: Self-Efficacy and the Six Components⭐ Get More Value: Exclusive Content and ResourcesWant to support the show and get early, ad-free access to all episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Subscribe to Barbell Medicine Plus and get ad-free listening, product discounts, and more. Try it free for 30-days.Unsure which training plan is right for you? Take the free Barbell Medicine Template Quiz to be matched with the ideal program for your goals and experience level.For media, support, or general questions, please contact us at [email protected] I. Meditation: Training Focus and Battling DistractionDr. Feigenbaum and Anne-Sophie begin by clarifying that meditation is not about emptying the mind or achieving spiritual transcendence. It is a simple mental practice used to train attention and awareness by focusing on an anchor (breath, sound, sensation). When the mind inevitably wanders, the practice is to bring focus back to the anchor.The True Benefits of Training AttentionWhile many people turn to meditation for sleep issues and stress relief, the strongest evidence points to its benefit as a tool to train focused attention.Focus is a Skill: Anybody can be told to "focus" on their training or work, but meditation provides the concrete skill development needed to counter distraction. Focusing on a mundane anchor like breathing forces the brain (which seeks productive activity) to practice recentering.Positive Externalities: Meditation’s primary value may be its "knock-on effects." By helping manage or reduce stress, it creates the self-awareness necessary to participate in other health-promoting behaviors (like eating mindfully, exercising, or making healthier decisions).Sports Application: Athletes, from powerlifters to soccer players, can use this training to focus on the task at hand and minimize distraction from external noise (crowds) or internal noise (self-doubt, fear of failure). II. Visualization: Mental Rehearsal for PerformanceVisualization, or mental imagery, is a form of meditation used to create mental images of desired outcomes or processes. Research suggests this practice can have a direct carry-over to performance by activating overlapping areas in the brain as if the action were happening in real life.Process, Outcome, and SafetyProcess Visualization: This is ideal for technical tasks (like a squat or a race car lap). The athlete visualizes the step-by-step execution of the task (e.g., foot placement, bar path, gear changes), creating a "brain memory" that shortens the decision-making process during competition.Outcome Visualization: Visualizing the moment of success (winning the competition, achieving a PR) can flood the brain with motivating chemicals and endorphins, bridging the gap between present reality and future possibility. However, caution is advised: for some, feeling the outcome too intensely can lead to lower motivation because the brain feels satisfied without doing the work.Mind-Muscle Connection: Visualization during a lift may be the mechanism behind the highly sought-after "mind-muscle connection." By actively diverting focused attention toward the specific muscle groups being activated, athletes may recruit a greater amount of muscle tissue, improving activation and potentially long-term gains. III. Mental Resilience and the Definition of HealthAnne-Sophie defines mental resilience mechanistically: the ability to return to an original form after force or pressure is applied. This aligns closely with the Barbell Medicine definition of health (from Huber, 2011) as the ability to adapt and self-manage in the face of social, physical, and emotional challenges.Self-Efficacy and ControlMental resilience is directly linked to self-efficacy (confidence in one's ability to exert control over one's life). Those with high self-efficacy feel in control, have good insight into their circumstances, and feel they have the resources to change the outcome.The key components of mental resilience include:Health: Physical health, sleep, and nutrition.Vision: Having a clear goal and direction for the future.Tenacity: The ability to keep going after setbacks.Composure: Self-regulation and staying level-headed under stress.Collaboration: Social support and community.The Path to ResilienceTo develop mental resilience, Anne-Sophie recommends developing self-awareness and reflection through regular practice:Practice Self-Awareness: Meditation improves the connectivity between the prefrontal cortex (executive function) and the amygdala (emotional center), allowing you to approach problems with a more level head and less emotional reactivity.Start Mono-tasking: Stop multitasking (which is actually just costly task switching) and start mono-tasking. Turn mundane activities (cooking, cleaning) into opportunities for mindfulness—focusing on one task and actively paying attention to the senses involved. This is the best nootropic for memory and cognition.Consistency: Structural changes in the brain (neuroplasticity) and lasting behavioral changes are seen after at least eight weeks of consistent practice (20–40 minutes daily).Connect With Anne-Sophie Fluri and Barbell MedicineGuest Substack: Read Anne-Sophie’s neuroscience insights and thought pieces at Rewire Me with Anne-Sophie (rewireme.substack.com).Guest Instagram: Follow Anne-Sophie for "not so serious content" and wellness trend critiques: @coochiebygucci (instagram.com/coochiebygucci).Support the Show & Save: Join Barbell Medicine Plus for ad-free listening and discounts on all courses and consultations!Our Sponsors:* Check out Express VPN: https://expressvpn.com/BBM* Check out FIGS and use my code FIGSRX for a great deal: https://wearfigs.com* Check out Factor and use my code bbm50off for a great deal: https://www.factor75.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/bbm* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/barbell-medicine-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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  • Q&A Deep Dive: Measuring Fat Loss, Testosterone vs. GainzZz, the Carnivore Diet, and More
    🎙️ Q&A Deep Dive: The Critical Cutoff for Fat Loss, Safety, and Strength📝 Episode Summary: BMI, Training Safety, and Evidence-Based NutritionIn this mini-sode, Dr. Jordan Feigenbaum answers core questions on performance and health. The discussion centers on replacing arbitrary body fat percentages with clinical, evidence-based metrics for determining when a lifter should start a fat loss phase, emphasizing BMI and waist circumference.Dr. Feigenbaum also provides critical safety information on heavy barbell training for older men, addresses the mythology of testosterone and its role in strength gains, outlines a strategy for losing weight without losing strength through modest deficits and high protein, and critiques the common use cases for stretching and the risks of the popular carnivore diet.⏱️ Episode Timestamps[00:00] Introduction & Barbell Medicine Plus Offer[00:43] Body Fat Percentage vs. Clinical Metrics for a Cut (BMI and Waist Circumference)[07:22] The Clinical Use of Stretching and Injury Risk (Entry point for pain)[09:51] Losing Weight Without Losing Strength (Modest deficit & high protein)[13:19] Heavy Barbell Training and Heart Problems in Older Men (Cardiac safety)[15:00] Favorite Testosterone Factoid and Relative Strength Gains (Androgen receptor saturation)[17:18] The Problem with the Carnivore Diet (Saturated fat and fiber risks)⭐ Get More Value: Exclusive Content and ResourcesWant to support the show and get early, ad-free access to all episodes plus exclusive bonus content? Subscribe to Barbell Medicine Plus and get ad-free listening, product discounts, and more. Try it free for 30-days.Unsure which training plan is right for you? Take the free Barbell Medicine Template Quiz to be matched with the ideal program for your goals and experience level.For media, support, or general questions, please contact us at [email protected]⚕️ Section I: Body Composition and the Fat Loss TriggerReplacing Body Fat Percentage with Clinical MarkersDr. Feigenbaum critiques the common practice of using arbitrary body fat percentage thresholds (e.g., 25% for men) to recommend a fat loss phase, citing the lack of robust evidence correlating these numbers to disease risk and the poor accuracy of most measurement methods for tracking individual change.Instead, the decision to recommend a cut for the average recreational lifter should rely on three objective, clinical criteria:BMI > 30: A Body Mass Index of 30 or over is highly specific for excess adiposity. Outside of anabolic-using athletes (a statistical aberration), this is a "do not pass go" line in the sand.Waist Circumference: For men, a waist circumference above 37 inches (particularly in those of European descent) is a stronger marker of visceral fat and increased risk.Adiposity-Based Chronic Disease (ABCD): The presence of medical conditions linked to excess body fat, such as high blood pressure (strength training and hypertension guidelines), dyslipidemia, or elevated fasting blood sugar.Strategy for Losing Weight While Retaining StrengthThe goal of losing weight without losing strength (e.g., 105 kg to 97 kg) is achievable through careful moderation of training and diet:Calorie Deficit: Maintain a modest calorie deficit (under 200 calories) below maintenance. Going too fast risks losing more muscle mass.Protein Intake: Keep protein high, targeting 1.4–1.6 g/kg of body weight per day.Training Resilience: Research shows humans are resilient to maintaining performance in a short-to-medium-term energy deficit, provided the training is correctly moderated in both dose and formulation (prioritizing quality over high volume). Avoid overly restrictive diets like keto, which are detrimental to strength and muscle retention.🏋️ Section II: Training Safety and HormonesHeavy Barbell Training and Heart Health in Older MenThe concern that heavy barbell training for men in their late 40s or 50s could cause heart problems (e.g., PACs or other abnormalities) is directly refuted by evidence.Resistance Training is Safe: Cardiac adaptations from resistance training are overwhelmingly beneficial (lowering blood pressure, improving blood lipids).Volume is the Risk Factor: The "extreme exercise hypothesis" suggesting exercise can be harmful is associated with ultra-endurance training (very high volume endurance work), not resistance training, as you simply cannot accumulate that level of volume.Health Benefits Offset Risk: The vast health improvements from lifting (managing physician guidelines for lifting with high blood pressure and metabolic health) tend to offset any minor risks, such as the slightly increased incidence of AFib sometimes seen in very high-volume endurance athletes.Debunking the Testosterone MythThe idea that high testosterone levels within the normal range are the primary ceiling for muscle and strength gains is a myth.Relative Gains are Equal: Men and women exposed to the same training stimulus gain the same relative amount of strength and muscle mass.Receptor Saturation: This occurs because androgen receptors are already saturated at relatively low T levels. Increasing natural T levels from the normal range is unlikely to be clinically significant for performance.Natural Optimization: Focus on fixing the primary drivers of low T: address obesity, manage chronic medical conditions, and ensure high-quality sleep.🔬 Section III: Evidence-Based Training and NutritionThe Problem with the Carnivore DietWhen the carnivore diet is typically followed, it is not consistent with a health-promoting dietary pattern:Saturated Fat: It often results in excessively high consumption of saturated fat from animal sources (butter, red meat), which is not health-promoting when it accounts for a large percentage of daily calories (e.g., 20%).Fiber Deficiency: It drastically limits vegetable matter, resulting in very low dietary fiber, which is linked to poorer long-term health outcomes.The True Role of StretchingDespite common belief, stretching and mobility work do not decrease injury risk or reduce soreness. Their application should be limited:Sport Specificity: Use stretching to achieve mobility necessary for specific sports (e.g., figure skating).Pain Entry Point: Use stretching as a gentle regression or entry point to exercise for individuals dealing with significant pain, such as the initial phases of managing pain-free strength training low back stenosis.Our Sponsors:* Check out Express VPN: https://expressvpn.com/BBM* Check out FIGS and use my code FIGSRX for a great deal: https://wearfigs.com* Check out Factor and use my code bbm50off for a great deal: https://www.factor75.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com* Check out Uncommon Goods: https://uncommongoods.com/bbm* Check out Washington Red Raspberries: https://redrazz.orgSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/barbell-medicine-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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