

Barbell Shrugged
Barbell Shrugged
New episode every Wednesday! Join the Barbell Shrugged crew in conversations about fitness, training, and frequent interviews w/ CrossFit Games athletes!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 15, 2025 • 44min
The Path to Optimizing Health and Performance w/ Dr. Baseer Kahn, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #781
Born and raised in Canada, Dr. Baseer Khan received his MD from the University of Toronto where he was honored to have received the Sigmung Vaile Award for Top Surgeon in his graduating class and received several research awards during his training. He went on to complete subspecialty training in Glaucoma and Advanced Anterior Segment Surgery. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and international Ophthalmology consultant for multiple companies, Dr. Khan is actively involved in teaching and research and development on local, national and international platforms. Dr. Khan has published extensively in journals and books and is often sought as an expert in advanced and challenging cases. He has also developed and designed surgical instrumentation for new surgical techniques. Dr. Khan has dedicated a segment of his practice as well to humanitarian work, much of which has been in Vietnam. Dr. Khan is currently the Executive Lead Physician at Southlake Regional Health Centre in Newmarket, Ontario and Director of the Clarity Eye Institute in Ontario. Work with RAPID Health Optimization Links: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram

28 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 54min
Physiology Friday: [Chronotype] The One Thing More Important than Getting 8 Hours of Sleep w/ Dr. Chris Perry, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash
Dr. Christopher A. Perry, an Assistant Professor and expert in sleep and circadian rhythms, joins the crew to explore how sleep impacts health. They discuss optimal sleep duration and the significance of sleep regularity, including the concept of chronotypes. The conversation touches on how bedroom temperature affects rest and the role of substances like alcohol and nicotine in sleep quality. Personal anecdotes and practical tips are shared to help optimize health through better sleep habits and lifestyle adjustments.

Jan 8, 2025 • 50min
Blood Flow Restriction Training w/Dr. Jeremy Loenneke, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #780
Dr. Jeremy Loenneke, a leading Exercise Physiology PhD from the University of Oklahoma, joins for an insightful discussion on blood flow restriction training. He shares intriguing insights on how BFR can enhance muscle size and strength with lower weights while emphasizing its safe application. The conversation also delves into innovative apparel for BFR, practical uses in rehabilitation, and the evolving research on tendon strength. They challenge the traditional views of muscle mass versus strength, offering a fresh perspective on training dynamics and maintenance.

Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 6min
Hustle, Loyalty, Respect w/ John Cena, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #779
In this engaging discussion, John Cena, the 17-time WWE champion and multifaceted entertainer, dives into the grueling demands of the wrestling world. He shares heartfelt insights on the importance of mentorship and community in fitness. John humorously recounts the adjustments needed while acclimating to new training environments and emphasizes the journey of personal growth. The conversation touches on the value of embracing failure, the quest for authenticity in fitness media, and finding balance in a demanding lifestyle. Tune in for laughter and inspiration!

Dec 25, 2024 • 55min
The Rhythm of Rest: Unlocking Sleep Potential Naturally w/ Dr. Chris Perry, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #778
Dr. Christopher A. Perry, Assistant Professor and expert in exercise science and sleep, shares his insights on optimizing sleep and athletic performance. The conversation delves into the adverse effects of daylight saving time on health, particularly sleep disruptions and cardiovascular risks. Nutrition’s role in sleep quality is emphasized, advocating for lighter pre-bed snacks. They discuss sleep-enhancing supplements and lifestyle changes, while also exploring how body temperature and circadian rhythms impact sleep quality. Personal anecdotes highlight the community spirit in health and wellness.

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Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 3min
[Women’s Health] Menstrual Cycles and Menopause w/ Dr. Stephanie Estima, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #777
Dr. Stephanie Estima, a chiropractic expert in female physiology and metabolism, joins the discussion to illuminate women's health, particularly menstrual cycles and menopause. They navigate the interplay of training and hormonal changes, advocating tailored workouts for strength building. Insights on intimacy reveal how hormones enhance connection, while weightlifting is highlighted as key for aging women’s health. The conversation also addresses the importance of community support through transitions like perimenopause, emphasizing open discussions about hormonal challenges.

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Dec 13, 2024 • 56min
Physiology Friday: [Immune System] Why Optimal Nutrition Starts with the Immune System w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged
Dan Garner, an expert in the immune system and fitness, joins the hosts for a deep dive into how the immune system underpins physical performance. They discuss the crucial role of gut health, recovery, and nutrition, highlighting how chronic stress affects muscle repair. Garner underscores the link between carbohydrates and optimal post-workout recovery, stressing the need for a holistic approach to health. The conversation emphasizes addressing root causes for weight management and improving overall well-being to enhance training outcomes.

Dec 11, 2024 • 48min
Managing Stress and Performance for Tactical Populations w/ Dr. Mike Lane, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #776
Dr. Mike Lane, a professor of exercise physiology, discusses stress management's critical role in improving athletic performance for tactical athletes like military personnel and first responders. He delves into the unique challenges faced by these athletes, such as effective fitness assessments and the importance of specialized training schedules. Mike also emphasizes the connection between breathing techniques, psychological resilience, and physical capabilities. Personal anecdotes from the Appalachian culture and insights into athlete mentality add depth to the conversation.

Dec 6, 2024 • 53min
Physiology Friday: [Bloodwork] What Your Doctor Isn’t Telling You About Your Bloodwork w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, Coach Travis Mash and Dan Garner Barbell Shrugged
In this engaging discussion, Dan Garner, an expert in blood chemistry, shares valuable insights into how bloodwork can optimize health and performance. He breaks down the critical role of blood chemistry and the often-overlooked markers your doctor might miss. Listeners learn about the surprising complexities surrounding cholesterol and the necessity of proactive monitoring of glucose levels to prevent diabetes. Garner also delves into the vitamin D paradox and the effects of heavy metals, emphasizing personalized health approaches for longevity.

Dec 4, 2024 • 34min
Training Updates, Goals, and Surgery Prep w/ Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #775
The conversation kicks off with a focus on setting elite performance goals, emphasizing the balance between enjoyment and pushing limits. Personal fitness journeys lead to discussions about navigating hip injuries and the importance of mobility. Interestingly, they explore the unconventional path of a woodsman athlete prioritizing nature and innate skills. As they advocate for alternative cardiovascular workouts, especially for those over 35, engaging anecdotes about unique training methods make the discussion both informative and entertaining.