Ep. #996: Chris Barakat on Understanding How Well You Respond to Training

Do people respond differently to the same training? How big of a range is there? Is there such a thing as a non-responder? How can you know if you’re a high-responder or low-responder (hardgainer) to training? How should your starting point affect your workout programming? If you’ve ever wondered these things or had similar questions, you’re in good company, because they’re things I’m often asked. You’re also going to enjoy this podcast because I’m interviewing Chris Barakat all about individual responses to training.

In our discussion, we chat about . . .

- What a high-responder is and what being one means for total muscular potential

- Individual training response differences in the scientific literature and in studies he was directly involved in

- How inconsistency holds back gains despite being “advanced” in training years

- Signs to look for if you're wondering about your training potential

- Individual differences in strength endurance

- How starting points should be taken into account with your training program

- And more . . .

If you’re not familiar with Chris, he’s a published scientist, educator, coach, and natural bodybuilder, and he’s a repeat guest on the podcast for good reason. His years of developing his book smarts along with his practical knowledge of gym know-how means he knows how to get results while also having something interesting to say, and I always learn something new in our chats.

So, if you want to learn about the variation in individual responses to training and how to apply that knowledge to your own programming, listen to this podcast!

Timestamps

(0:00) - Save up to 30% during our Black Friday Sale! https://buylegion.com/

(5:04) - What does it mean to be a hard gainer or a high responder to strength training?

(19:55) - What’s the cause of some people getting weaker and smaller when training?

(29:56) - Can someone’s genetic potential be so low that they can’t gain muscle and strength?

(32:39) - What are the signs that you are a high or low responder?

(43:35) - Should our strength starting points be taken into account when looking for a training program?

(59:32) - Anything else you would like to add?

(1:02:54) - Where can people find you and your work?

Mentioned on the Show:

Save up to 30% during our Black Friday Sale! Go to buylegion.com and use coupon code MUSCLE to save even more or get double reward points!

Chris Barakat’s Website: https://schoolofgainz.com/

Chris Barakat’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopher.barakat/