Coach PJ Nestler, the Director of Performance at XPT and Fitlab. Is a human performance specialist with over a decade of experience preparing top athletes for competition. His life mission is to help athletes and coaches realize their true potential.  With a passion for sports and a commitment to excellence, PJ has become a leader in sports performance training. He has trained dozens of athletes from the NFL, NHL and MLB and has worked extensively with over 100 fighters, including multiple Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu World Champions and Top 10 ranked UFC fighters.  Through the application of his progressive training philosophy and unique approach to every situation, Coach PJ continues to raise the bar for fitness professionals. He has emerged as a sought-after expert in human performance and trainer education. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him on the XPT team, as the new Director of Performance! Coach PJ Nestler on Instagram  Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram

L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism within the human body. It is synthesized in the liver and kidneys from the amino acids lysine and methionine. L-Carnitine is primarily involved in the transport of long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles within cells, where they can be oxidized to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body's main energy currency.   Here are some key aspects and functions of L-Carnitine: Energy production: L-Carnitine facilitates the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, enabling their breakdown and subsequent conversion into ATP. This process is essential for maintaining energy levels throughout the body. Fat metabolism: By aiding in the utilization of fatty acids as an energy source, L-Carnitine contributes to fat metabolism and can potentially support weight management and fat loss efforts. Exercise performance: L-Carnitine has been studied for its potential benefits in enhancing exercise performance. It may help improve endurance, reduce muscle damage, and enhance recovery by optimizing energy utilization during physical activity. Heart health: L-Carnitine plays a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health. It assists in the transport of fatty acids to the heart muscle, providing a valuable energy source. L-Carnitine supplementation has been studied for its potential benefits in various cardiac conditions, including heart failure and angina. Brain function: L-Carnitine is involved in maintaining healthy brain function. It can cross the blood-brain barrier and acts as a neuroprotective agent, potentially supporting cognitive health and neurological well-being.   Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Greg has over a decade of experience under the bar and a M.A. in exercise and sports science. He’s held three all-time world records in powerlifting in the 220lb and 242lb classes. He’s trained hundreds of athletes and regular folks, both online and in-person. He’s written for many of the major magazines and websites in the fitness industry, including Men’s Health, Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Bodybuilding.com, T-Nation, and Schwarzenegger.com. Furthermore, he’s had the opportunity to work with and learn from numerous record holders, champion athletes, and collegiate and professional strength and conditioning coaches   Greg Nuckols on Instagram  Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

In today's episode of Barbell Shrugged the team digs into liver health, biomarkers, and optimization. The liver is a remarkable organ that performs numerous essential functions necessary for our overall well-being. Maintaining a healthy liver is vital, and understanding the role of biomarkers and optimization can help us achieve that goal. Our lifestyle choices significantly impact liver health. Unhealthy habits such as a processed food-heavy diet, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary behavior, and chronic stress can damage the liver. On the other hand, adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and moderate alcohol consumption promotes optimal liver function. Biomarkers play a crucial role in assessing liver health. These measurable indicators, including liver enzymes like ALT and AST, bilirubin levels, and imaging techniques like ultrasound and MRI, provide valuable insights into liver function and overall health. By monitoring these biomarkers, healthcare professionals can identify inflammation, damage, and diseases such as fatty liver disease or viral hepatitis at an early stage, enabling timely intervention and prevention of further damage. Diet is a key factor in optimizing liver health. A nutrient-rich diet low in processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats supports liver function. Foods such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like avocados and olive oil provide necessary nutrients and antioxidants for the liver's detoxification processes. Supplements and herbs can also aid liver health. Milk thistle, containing silymarin with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, has been used for centuries for its hepatoprotective effects. Other supplements like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and turmeric have shown potential benefits in supporting liver health. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen to ensure personalized guidance. Alcohol consumption significantly impacts liver health. Excessive and chronic alcohol consumption leads to inflammation, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis. Practicing responsible drinking by limiting alcohol intake and incorporating alcohol-free days is crucial for liver protection. Mental well-being is intertwined with liver health. Chronic stress and poor mental health can affect liver function. Implementing stress management techniques such as meditation, exercise, and seeking support from loved ones or professionals can reduce stress levels and support liver health. In conclusion, optimizing liver health through lifestyle modifications, biomarker monitoring, dietary adjustments, responsible alcohol consumption, and stress management is essential for overall well-being. Prioritizing a healthy lifestyle and seeking professional guidance can make a significant difference in supporting the liver's vital functions. Remember, a healthy liver leads to a healthier life.   Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Brad Schoenfeld, PhD, CSCS, CSPS, FNSCA, is an internationally renowned fitness expert and widely regarded as one of the leading authorities on body composition training (muscle development and fat loss). He is a lifetime drug-free bodybuilder, and has won numerous natural bodybuilding titles. Brad earned his masters degree in kinesiology/exercise science from the University of Texas at Permian Basin and his PhD at Rocky Mountain University where his dissertation focused on elucidating the mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and their application to resistance training. He has published over 300 peer-reviewed research articles on exercise and sports nutrition, as well as editing multiple textbooks and authoring several textbook chapters. He acts as the Assistant Editor-in-Chief for the NSCA’s Strength and Conditioning Journal, as well as serving on the editorial advisory board for numerous peer-reviewed exercise- and nutrition-related journals. Brad is widely regarded as a „trainer of trainers.“ He is a tenured full professor in the Health Sciences Department at Lehman College in the Bronx, NY, and serves as the Graduate Director of the Human Performance and Fitness program. Moreover, he is a dedicated mentor to young sports scientists, and has served as a chair or member on more than a dozen thesis and dissertation committees. Brad is a best-selling author of multiple fitness books including The M.A.X. Muscle Plan 2.0 (Human Kinetics, 2021), which has been widely referred to as the “muscle-building bible” and Strong and Sculpted (Human Kinetics, 2016), which details a cutting-edge body sculpting program targeted to women. Brad also has authored the seminal textbook Science and Development of Muscle Hypertrophy (Human Kinetics, 2020), the first text devoted to an evidence-based elucidation of the mechanisms and strategies for optimizing muscle growth. In total, Brad’s books have sold over a half-million copies. Brad Schoenfeld on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Sam Miller has more than a decade of experience as a health, fitness, and nutrition coach.  His programs help coaches and health professionals improve their clients’ results.  A popular online educator, podcast host, and mentor, he consistently offers simple, strategic methods for transformation and translates complex concepts into leverage for any health and fitness goal. His workshops, classes, and specialization programs have served over 2,500 coaches worldwide. He has been a featured speaker for companies like LinkedIn and a content contributor for industry titans such as Barbell Shrugged, Muscle Intelligence, T-Nation, Elite FTS, and more.  He is a certified nutritionist and licensed, board-certified health practitioner who holds a master’s degree from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor of Science from Elon University. To learn more about RAPID Health Optimization, please visit https://rapidhealthreport.com to see a free lab, lifestyle, and performance analysis from Dr. Andy Galpin and Dan Garner   Connect with our guests: Sam Miller Science on Instagram Sam Miller Science Website Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Adam Bornstein is a New York Times bestselling author and award-winning writer and editor. He is the founder of Born Fitness and Pen Name Consulting, and the co-founder of The Pump with Arnold Schwarzenegger. For the past 20 years, Bornstein has been “the trusted voice in health” as the Fitness and Nutrition editor for Men’s Health, Editorial Director at LIVESTRONG.com, and a columnist for SHAPE, Men’s Fitness, and Muscle & Fitness.  Bornstein has worked as a nutrition advisor for LeBron James, Cindy Crawford, Lindsey Vonn, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. He’s the former Chief Nutrition Officer at Ladder and former Vice President of Nutrition for FitOn. His work has been featured in dozens of publications, including The New York Times, Fast Company, ESPN, and GQ, and he’s appeared on Good Morning America, The Today Show, E! News, and The Cheddar. He lives in Denver with his wife and two sons. His latest book “You Can’t Screw This Up” can be purchased at https://www.cantscrewthisup.com   To learn more, please go to https://rapidhealthreport.com Connect with our guests: Adam Bornstein on Twitter Adam Bornstein on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

In today's fast-paced world, optimizing our health and performance has become paramount. Sleep, recovery, and performance are integral aspects of our well-being, and understanding and improving them is crucial. This is where the Ōura Ring comes into play. This revolutionary wearable technology aims to unlock your potential by providing insights and data to enhance your sleep, recovery, and overall performance. In this article, we will delve into the goal of the Ōura Ring, explore its functionalities, and uncover how it can help you track and improve your sleep, recovery, and performance.   The Goal of the Ōura Ring The Ōura Ring is designed with a clear objective in mind: to empower individuals to take charge of their well-being and unleash their full potential. By combining cutting-edge technology and scientific principles, the ring provides personalized data and insights, enabling users to make informed decisions and optimize their sleep, recovery, and performance.   Understanding the Ōura Ring At first glance, the Ōura Ring may appear to be a sleek and stylish piece of jewelry. However, beneath its elegant exterior lies a multitude of sensors and advanced technology. The ring is equipped with infrared LEDs, a 3D accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a temperature sensor, all working together to collect an array of data. The ring's sensors track various physiological signals, including heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), body temperature, and movement. By analyzing these data points, the Ōura Ring provides comprehensive insights into sleep, recovery, and activity levels.   Tracking and Improving Sleep One of the standout features of the Ōura Ring is its ability to monitor and analyze your sleep patterns. By measuring key metrics such as sleep duration, sleep stages (including deep sleep, REM sleep, and light sleep), and sleep latency, the ring provides valuable insights into your sleep quality. These insights help you understand how well you are sleeping and identify areas for improvement. Armed with this information, you can take proactive steps to optimize your sleep. The Ōura Ring offers personalized suggestions and recommendations, such as adjusting your bedtime routine, creating a sleep-friendly environment, or practicing relaxation techniques. By making informed changes based on the ring's insights, you can enhance the quality and duration of your sleep, waking up refreshed and rejuvenated.   Enhancing Recovery Recovery plays a vital role in our overall well-being and performance. The Ōura Ring recognizes this and provides a comprehensive view of your recovery by analyzing metrics such as HRV, resting heart rate, and body temperature. HRV, in particular, is a key indicator of your body's readiness to perform at its best. With the Ōura Ring, you can monitor your recovery trends over time and identify factors that may positively or negatively affect your recovery. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions regarding your training intensity, rest days, and stress management strategies. By prioritizing recovery and utilizing the insights from the ring, you can optimize your performance and minimize the risk of burnout or overtraining.   Optimizing Performance The Ōura Ring goes beyond sleep and recovery, offering features that help you optimize your performance in various aspects of life. The ring tracks your daily activity, providing data on steps taken, calories burned, and active time. This information allows you to set and monitor your fitness goals, ensuring you stay on track and make progress. Moreover, the ring's comprehensive analysis of your sleep, recovery, and activity enables you to identify patterns and correlations between these factors and your overall performance. By leveraging this knowledge, you can fine-tune your routines, optimize your training schedules, and make lifestyle   To learn more, please go to https://rapidhealthreport.com Connect with our guests: Dr. Michael T. Nelson on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Welcome to another episode of Barbell Shrugged! In this episode, we will be diving into the topic of cortisol and the stress response system. First, we will discuss the stress response system and how it works. Our bodies have a built-in response to stress, known as the fight or flight response. This response is controlled by the sympathetic nervous system and triggers the release of hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. Next, we will talk about the function of cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that is released in response to stress and has several important functions in the body. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels, suppress the immune system, and aid in the metabolism of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. We will also discuss why many people struggle to adapt to stress. Chronic stress can lead to an overactive stress response system, which can cause the body to release too much cortisol. This can lead to negative effects on the body, including weight gain, decreased immune function, and an increased risk of chronic disease. We will then debunk the myth of adrenal fatigue. Adrenal fatigue is a controversial diagnosis that claims that chronic stress can cause the adrenal glands to become fatigued and unable to produce cortisol. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim, and many experts believe that the symptoms attributed to adrenal fatigue are actually caused by other factors. Finally, we will discuss the difference between chronic and acute stress on your physiology. Acute stress is a short-term response to a specific event, while chronic stress is a long-term response to ongoing stressors. While acute stress can be beneficial, chronic stress can have negative effects on the body and can lead to chronic disease. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Barbell Shrugged! We hope you found this discussion on cortisol and the stress response system informative and helpful. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more informative episodes like this one. To learn more, please go to https://rapidhealthreport.com Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram Dan Garner on Instagram

Bryan Krahn is a fitness expert, writer, and online coach based in Canada. He has been involved in the fitness industry for over 20 years and has contributed to various fitness magazines such as Men's Health, Men's Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, and T-Nation. He is known for his evidence-based approach to training and nutrition, and for his ability to simplify complex concepts for his clients and readers.  Bryan Krahn has a degree in kinesiology from the University of Western Ontario and has also earned several certifications in fitness and nutrition, including Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach. He has used his education and experience to help countless people achieve their fitness goals through his coaching and writing. Krahn's writing covers a variety of topics related to fitness, including training, nutrition, supplementation, and lifestyle. His articles and blog posts are widely read and respected, and he has developed a loyal following of readers and clients. In addition to his writing and coaching, Krahn is best known for helping men over 40 get in the best shape of their lives. To learn more, please go to https://rapidhealthreport.com   Connect with our guests: Bryan Krahn on Instagram Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash on Instagram