The Mind-Blowing History of Muscle & How to Become Stronger - With Michael Joseph Gross
The Model Health Show
Etymology of Gym and Early PE for Girls
Michael traces gymnasium to Greek 'naked' and recounts 19th-century girls' physical education origins.
As humans, we have an innate ability to create change in all aspects of our lives. And one of the most vital things we can influence is the health and strength of our bodies. On today’s show, you’re going to learn about how building muscle can influence everything from your mood and mental health to your risk for diseases and longevity.
Today’s guest is author and journalist, Michael Joseph Gross. His influential work has been featured across many national media outlets and mediums. His newest project, the book Stronger, brings light to the central role of muscle for human health, happiness, and longevity. On this episode of The Model Health Show, Michael is sharing the fascinating ancient history, science, and role of muscle.
You’ll learn about Stronger’s three central figures and their inspirational stories of how muscle improves the human experience. We’re also going to discuss muscle’s incredible ability to reduce painful symptoms and increase your overall survivability. Michael’s insights will reframe the way you think about exercise and muscle—and why we need them to live our best, healthiest lives. So click play and enjoy the show!
In this episode you’ll discover:
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The essential role of the gluteus maximus. (2:29)
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How learning a new sport changed everything for Michael. (7:53)
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The importance of making exercise as routine as brushing your teeth. (8:33)
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How the culture of strength is driven by example. (10:57)
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What percentage of the population strength trains. (12:09)
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Why we need to respect muscles and the mind as an integrated whole. (19:30)
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A story of the power of progressive overload. (20:50)
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Why rest as essential as building strength. (23:14)
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What supercompensation is. (27:41)
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The interesting history and etymology of gym. (33:16)
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How the Spartans trained. (37:11)
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Why strength training is transformative for overweight adolescents. (47:54)
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The role of muscle for young developing girls. (54:11)
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How strength training can improve the symptoms of depression. (1:03:37)
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Why strength training can reduce your risk of dying from cancer. (1:06:30)
Items mentioned in this episode include:
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WildPastures.com/model - Get 20% off every box plus an additional $15 off!
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Stronger by Michael Joseph Gross - Get your copy of the book here!
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This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Wild Pastures and LMNT.
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