Ep. #685: Says You! Ideal Cardio Volume, Nothing Is “Scientifically Proven,” and Deadlifts for Hypertrophy

I’ve written and recorded a lot of evidence-based content over the years on just about everything you can imagine related to building muscle, losing fat, and getting healthy.

I’ve also worked with thousands of men and women of all ages and circumstances and helped them get into the best shape of their lives.

That doesn’t mean you should blindly swallow everything I say, though, because let’s face it—nobody is always right about everything. And especially in fields like diet and exercise, which are constantly evolving thanks to the efforts of honest and hardworking researchers and thought leaders.

This is why I’m always happy to hear from people who disagree with me, especially when they have good arguments and evidence to back up their assertions.

Sometimes I can’t get on board with their positions, but sometimes I end up learning something, and either way, I always appreciate the discussion.

That gave me the idea for this series of podcast episodes: publicly addressing things people disagree with me on and sharing my perspective.

Think of it like a spicier version of a Q&A.

So, here’s what I’m doing:

Every couple of weeks, I’m asking my Instagram followers what they disagree with me on, and then picking a few of the more common or interesting contentions to address here on the podcast.

And in this episode, I’ll be tackling the following . . .

4:42 - “I disagree on how much cardio you should do to improve your body composition. I believe “that no more than half of the amount of time lifting weights for cardio” is not enough for most people.”

22:33 - “The only thing that I’ve ever really disagreed with you on is your use of the phrase ‘scientifically proven’. Science doesn’t prove anything. That isn’t its goal or its point. And as a science guy myself, the phrase just peeves me, even when it is in fact an effective marketing gimmick.”

29:14 - “Conventional/sumo deadlifts in a hypertrophy program. I don’t think there’s much value for them being in such a program.”

Mentioned on The Show:

Books by Mike Matthews: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/

My Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muscleforlifefitness/

---

Want free workout and meal plans? Download my science-based diet and training templates for men and women: https://legionathletics.com/text-sign-up/