MASS Office Hours Episode 4 (Exercise + Cognition, Training Around Back Pain, Adjusting Volume)
Oct 7, 2023
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Topics discussed include benefits of exercise for memory, optimal amino acid profiles in protein sources, weight fluctuations while traveling, using 'exercise snacks,' training around lower back injuries, resistance training and protein intake for older adults, adjusting volume in training, applying evidence-based fitness concepts, and celebrating Dr. Helms' bodybuilding success.
Adjusting training volume based on individual needs and recovery capacity is more important for progress than pushing to maximum recoverable volume (MRV) at the end of each mesocycle.
Maintaining adequate protein intake during weight loss is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health, low protein diets may not aid in reducing excess skin after weight loss.
For muscle growth, cycling high volumes of sets (30-40 per week) can be beneficial as part of a strategy, but should not be used continuously, and protein intake should be evenly distributed throughout the day for optimal results.
Deep dives
Training to maximum recoverable volume at the end of each mesocycle
At the end of each mesocycle, the question of whether to train to maximum recoverable volume (MRV) arises. While there is limited data on this topic, it is important to consider that just because you can train at MRV doesn't mean you should. The focus should be on making progress rather than simply doing more volume. It is not necessary to push to MRV at the end of each mesocycle. Instead, listen to your body and adjust volume based on your individual needs and recovery capacity. While training at high volume at the end of a mesocycle can be done, it doesn't guarantee more progress and should be approached with caution. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual circumstances and goals.
Low protein diet for reducing excess skin after weight loss
There is no evidence suggesting that a low protein diet (0.5 grams per kilogram or lower) can help with reducing excess skin after weight loss. Restricting protein intake to such low levels can have negative consequences and is generally not recommended. It is important to maintain adequate protein intake, especially during weight loss, to support muscle maintenance and overall health. A balanced diet with sufficient protein, along with regular resistance training and hydration, can help with skin elasticity and overall body composition.
Training around maximum recoverable volume
When considering training around maximum recoverable volume (MRV) at the end of each mesocycle, it is important to remember that more volume doesn't necessarily equate to better results. While pushing close to MRV at times can be beneficial for functional overreaching, it is not necessary to consistently train at maximum volume for strength or hypertrophy gains. The focus should be on progressive overload, proper recovery, and individual adaptation. It is crucial to listen to your body and adjust training volume based on how you are responding and recovering, rather than strictly adhering to hitting MRV at the end of each mesocycle.
Using High Volumes for Muscle Growth
Performing high volumes of sets, such as 30-40 sets per week, can potentially lead to improved muscle growth. Studies have shown that these high volumes can result in better muscle growth compared to lower set volumes. However, it is important to note that this approach should not be used all the time, but rather as a component of volume cycling, where specific muscle groups are prioritized for a few weeks at high volumes, while others are trained at maintenance volumes.
Protein Consumption and Muscle Building
When it comes to protein consumption for muscle building, it is optimal to split your protein intake into multiple even doses throughout the day. Research suggests that having two or three doses of protein, approximately similar in size, is better for muscle building compared to consuming a large amount in a single sitting. However, the most important factor is ensuring that you consume a sufficient amount of total protein for the day, so if one meal a day is more convenient for you, it can still be effective.
In episode 4 of MASS Office Hours, Dr. Eric Trexler is joined by Dr. Mike Zourdos. To begin, they discuss the benefits of exercise for memory and brain health, including the physiological mechanisms driving these benefits. After that, Eric and Mike answer listener questions on topics like weight fluctuations while traveling, the quality of various protein sources, training around lower back injuries, adjusting volume throughout a mesocycle, applying evidence-based concepts as a personal trainer, and much more.
The MASS crew goes live for Office Hours every Wednesday night at 7pm eastern time. Be sure to join us for a future episode!
Time stamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:04 Benefits of exercise for memory and cognition
00:16:35 “Optimal” amino acid profile for dietary protein sources
00:22:31 Feeling "fatter" while traveling to different climate
00:27:16 Using "exercise snacks" to split up exercise sessions
00:35:42 Alternative exercises for people with lower back pain
00:42:46 Resistance training and protein intake in older adults; protein timing
00:51:15 Low-protein diets and excess skin
00:53:44 Adjusting volume throughout a mesocycle
01:01:04 Protein distribution throughout the day
01:03:35 Observational versus experimental evidence for protein intake
01:07:55 How to apply evidence-based fitness information
01:21:23 Congratulating Dr. Helms
01:23:23 Concluding remarks
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