Dive into the intriguing world of hypertrophy and the complexities of knowledge. The hosts explore the disconnect between established models and empirical evidence. They share insights on the evolving nature of fitness content, especially for younger audiences. Misconceptions about statistical significance are tackled, emphasizing the importance of nuanced understanding. Most importantly, they challenge listeners to embrace uncertainty in the pursuit of knowledge, fueling critical thinking in the fitness community.
The podcast explores the complexity of knowledge in hypertrophy, highlighting the tension between logical models and empirical evidence.
Content consumption trends are shifting towards bite-sized information, challenging the depth of understanding on complex topics in exercise science.
The importance of integrating the biopsychosocial model in practice is emphasized, advocating for a balanced understanding of biological and psychosocial factors in pain management.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Knowing What We Know
Understanding knowledge is a complex venture, illustrated by the idea that what one believes they know may not always align with facts. Discussions revolve around how people seek to understand their expertise and confidence in certain knowledge while navigating the uncertainty that surrounds any field, especially in exercise science. The overarching theme of knowing and determining truth in knowledge leads to challenges, particularly when new evidence can contradict previously established norms. This is particularly evident in examining evolving topics, such as pain science and its wider implications in fitness and well-being.
Generational Shifts in Content Consumption
Content consumption preferences have shifted dramatically with new generations favoring bite-sized information. The rise of platforms such as TikTok has led to shorter, more digestible pieces of content, causing creators to modify their approaches and catering to these audience demands. While this adaption presents opportunities for reaching younger demographics, it raises concerns about the depth of understanding among audiences regarding complex subjects like pain science. The hosts express both bemusement and recognition of their evolving roles as creators in this rapidly changing landscape.
Interconnectedness of Biological and Psychosocial Factors
In the realm of exercise science, the integration of the biopsychosocial model is discussed, emphasizing the importance of recognizing both biological and psychosocial components in rehabilitation and pain management. Despite its popularity, there is concern that some practitioners may only pay lip service to this model, neglecting the fundamental biological roots behind certain injuries and pain conditions. This results in oversimplified approaches that can mislead practitioners and patients alike. A balanced understanding, acknowledging both biomedical and psycho-social perspectives, is crucial for effective treatment and evidence-based practice.
The Role of Models in Scientific Understanding
Scientific models serve as vital tools for understanding complex processes, yet they often require critical evaluation to ensure they align with empirical data. An example from the podcast highlights discrepancies between two meta-analyses regarding training methodologies, showcasing how interpretations can evolve based on newly available evidence. Emphasizing the need for humility in science, there is a call for professionals to question affinity towards models and to focus on the overarching evidence. The dialogue stresses that practitioners must be open to modifying approaches based on the latest empirical findings for truly effective application.
The Challenge of Communicating Scientific Complexity
Communicating scientific concepts effectively remains a significant hurdle in the fitness industry, especially when complex theories clash with personal beliefs or anecdotal evidence. Practitioners and science communicators often struggle to bridge gaps between rigorous research and applications in real-world scenarios. The podcast suggests that fostering a culture of inquiry, where practitioners encourage questioning and critical evaluation among peers, is essential for progress. Overall, instilling a mindset geared toward disconfirmation instead of affirmation can enhance scientific dialogue and understanding.
How do we know what we know? And do we know what we think we know? If your answer is “I don’t know,” then this episode is for you. In this classic-style episode, Omar and Helms sit down for a spirited chat on epistemology: the theory of knowledge, as it relates to hypertrophy. In the “evidence-based” world some people always claim to have things figured out entirely. In the case of hypertrophy, some people currently can explain with a “model” what must occur in training to produce hypertrophy, in a logically consistent narrative, based in true aspects of physiology. However, just because something is logically consistent and contains elements of truth, doesn’t necessarily make it entirely correct. So first, we should ask, when and why should models be used in scientific inquiry? How do models sit in relation to empirical studies? How does one check the veracity of a model? Is a “model” really a model if nothing was actually modelled? Can it be valid if it is contradicted by dozens of controlled trials? Most importantly, will we ever be ok with feeling uncomfortable and embracing our ignorance in the search of knowledge? Or, are we doomed to repeat the mistake of prematurely clinging to intellectually satisfying, logical, complete, yet factually incorrect answers whenever there are gaps in our understanding that makes us uncomfortable?
00:00 Do you know what you know?
04:56 Fitness content creators and models of hypertrophy
Refalo 2023 Influence of Resistance Training Proximity-to-Failure on Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36334240/
Robinson 2024 Exploring the Dose-Response Relationship Between Estimated Resistance Training Proximity to Failure, Strength Gain, and Muscle Hypertrophy: A Series of Meta-Regressions https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38970765/
17:15 Studies in sport science without black and white results/answers and mathematical models
27:55 (Dis)confirming models and considering scientific evidence
