Iron Culture presented by MASS

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and Eric Trexler discuss the recent changes to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) and the implications of these updates. They begin by addressing the shift in their podcast schedule, emphasizing the importance of mental health and balance in their work. The conversation then transitions into a detailed analysis of the new dietary guidelines, highlighting the complexities of the process behind their formulation. Helms critiques the influence of corporate interests and the political landscape on the DGAs, while also acknowledging the positive aspects of the new recommendations, particularly the increased emphasis on protein intake. The hosts explore the historical context of dietary guidelines, the evolution of public health messaging, and the challenges of effectively communicating nutritional advice to the public. In this episode, Eric Helms and MASS Research delve into the complexities of the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs), discussing the implications of the visual representation of food groups and the recommendations for protein, fats, and processed foods. They critique the new guidelines for their lack of clarity and potential confusion, particularly regarding the emphasis on whole foods versus processed foods. The conversation highlights the disconnect between the written guidelines and their visual representation, which may mislead the public about healthy eating patterns. They also explore the political influences on these guidelines and how they may affect vulnerable populations, particularly in school lunch programs and social assistance programs.If you’re in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code “MRR10" for a 10% discount)Chapters00:00 Introduction and Schedule Changes07:15 The Dietary Guidelines Controversy20:56 Understanding the Formation of Dietary Guidelines32:30 The Influence of Food Industries on Guidelines33:38 The Role of the Second Committee43:49 Changes in Protein Recommendations44:19 The Inverted Pyramid and Dietary Miscommunication59:55 Understanding Fats in the New Guidelines01:09:17 The Role of Full-Fat Dairy in Heart Health01:15:06 Alcohol Consumption: New Guidelines Explained01:21:52 Processed Foods and Public Health Implications01:25:03 The Impact of Dietary Guidelines on Vulnerable Populations01:30:34 Conclusions and Future Directions in Nutrition Guidelines

In this episode, Eric Helms interviews Shreenath Ganesh, the inaugural world champion in the short classic physique division at the WNBF Worlds. They discuss Shreenath's journey from India to becoming a champion, the rise of natural bodybuilding in India, the challenges faced by athletes, and the cultural perspectives surrounding bodybuilding. Shreenath shares his aspirations to promote natural bodybuilding and uplift fellow athletes in his community, emphasizing the importance of delayed gratification and hard work in achieving success.If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)Chapters00:00 Introduction to the New Classic Physique Champion02:49 Shreenath's Journey to Becoming a World Champion06:08 The Rise of Natural Bodybuilding in India08:58 Challenges and Triumphs in Bodybuilding11:55 Cultural Perspectives on Bodybuilding in India15:01 Future Aspirations and Goals for Natural Bodybuilding17:56 Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and MASS Research discuss the importance of self-experimentation in fitness, the history and significance of statistics in science, and the balance between skepticism and curiosity in science communication. They explore the claims made about self-experimentation, the role of statistical significance versus meaningful outcomes, and the necessity of integrating various sources of evidence in practice. The conversation emphasizes the importance of humility and open-mindedness in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in the fitness community.If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)Chapters00:00 Celebrating Milestones: Personal Reflections06:33 Housekeeping: Supporting the Podcast08:20 The Intersection of Science and Lifting10:43 Self-Experimentation: Claims and Critiques14:05 The History of Statistics in Science22:26 Understanding Scientific Consensus and Its Pitfalls30:10 Navigating Science Communication and Expertise34:20 The Complexity of Self-Experimentation39:45 Understanding Individual Responses in Exercise Science44:24 Navigating the Challenges of Self-Experimentation49:03 The Importance of Meaningful Outcomes54:40 Integrating Evidence-Based Practice01:01:52 The Balance of Skepticism and Curiosity in Fitness Science

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms interviews WNBF Pro champions Eddie Saldana and Max Melchard, discussing their journeys in natural bodybuilding, the competitive mindset, and the culture of bodybuilding in Europe. They share insights on training, conditioning, and the importance of enjoying the process of bodybuilding. The conversation highlights the growth of natural bodybuilding and the unique challenges and experiences faced by competitors.If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)Chapters00:00 Introduction to Champions 02:55 Eddie Saldana's Journey to the Top06:00 Max Melchard's Competitive Spirit08:57 The Importance of Passion in Bodybuilding12:06 The Competitive Landscape of Bodybuilding15:06 Personal Stories and Training Histories18:00 The Evolution of Eddie and Max's Careers20:48 Reflections on Competition and Personal Growth29:44 The Journey of Competition36:51 Building Confidence and Experience43:41 The Natural Bodybuilding Culture in Europe50:58 Life Beyond Bodybuilding59:35 The Journey of Self-Improvement01:01:38 Navigating Relationships During Prep01:04:38 Future Competitive Plans and Off-Season Strategies01:11:36 Balancing Family Life and Bodybuilding01:19:31 The Impact of Parenthood on Competitive Sports01:24:49 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations

In this episode of Iron Culture, hosts Eric Trexler and Eric Helms discuss various themes surrounding fitness, nutrition, and the importance of open discourse in the community. The conversation addresses criticism received from listeners, the role of cynicism versus skepticism in fitness discussions, and the necessity of engaging with differing perspectives for personal and professional growth. The episode concludes with a call for self-awareness and openness in navigating the complexities of fitness discourse.If you're looking for some high-quality lifting gear or apparel, be sure to visit elitefts.com and use our discount code "MRR10" for a 10% discount.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Holiday Greetings02:18 Tiny Utensils and Eating Behavior05:40 The Controversy Surrounding Brian Wansink08:23 Updates and Future Directions for Iron Culture11:20 Addressing Criticism and Community Discourse17:20 Navigating Evidence-Based Practice and Guest Selection30:27 Evaluating Content and Moral Standards32:35 The Role of Evidence in Interviews34:11 Career Paths in Fitness and Coaching36:54 Critiques and Misunderstandings in Fitness40:34 Navigating Disagreements in Evidence-Based Fitness46:16 Cynicism vs. Skepticism in Fitness Discourse55:45 The Shift from Ideas to Personal Attacks59:03 The Drama of Evidence-Based Fitness01:01:47 The Importance of Empirical Science01:06:14 Navigating Cynicism and Skepticism01:12:21 Engaging with Different Perspectives01:17:59 Self-Awareness in Fitness Discourse01:24:08 The Role of Change and Growth in Fitness

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms is joined by natural bodybuilders Christine Reinhart and Sarah Oase, who share their journeys in the sport, their experiences at recent competitions, and the challenges faced in women's bodybuilding. They discuss the importance of camaraderie among competitors, the evolution of their training and competition strategies, and the significance of earning pro cards. The conversation highlights the need for greater visibility and support for women's bodybuilding, as well as the personal growth and empowerment that comes from competing. They also share their future plans, emphasizing the need for advocacy and community support in women's bodybuilding, aiming to inspire more women to participate in the sport.If you're in the market for some new gym gear or apparel, be sure to support our friends over at elitefts.com and use our code ("MRR10") for a 10% discount.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:00 Christine Reinhart's Journey in Bodybuilding05:43 Sarah Oase's Athletic Background and Transition to Bodybuilding11:54 The Importance of Age in Bodybuilding14:52 Competitive Experiences and Achievements20:49 Camaraderie in Natural Bodybuilding26:55 Challenges in Women's Bodybuilding29:52 Future of Women's Bodybuilding and Closing Thoughts36:59 The Evolution of Bodybuilding Careers38:51 Challenging Gender Norms in Bodybuilding42:40 Promoting Women's Bodybuilding49:22 Personal Journeys in Competitive Bodybuilding57:28 Validation Through Competition01:06:08 Finding Potential and Growth in Bodybuilding01:13:20 Navigating Challenges in Competition01:16:15 Recognizing Potential and Achievements01:18:27 Experiences at the World Championships01:22:29 The Subjectivity of Competition01:25:28 The Future of Women's Bodybuilding01:30:21 Future Plans and Off-Season Goals

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms is joined by world champions Heitor Sousa and Adão Martins to discuss their journeys in natural bodybuilding. They reflect on their experiences at the WNBF Worlds, the importance of community and support, and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks. The conversation highlights their friendship, resilience, and the significance of never giving up in the pursuit of excellence in bodybuilding. They reflect on their successful competition year, the art of bodybuilding, strategies for competing annually, the importance of health and longevity, and the supportive community within the sport. The discussion emphasizes the balance between on-season and off-season training, the significance of mental health, and the shared passion for bodybuilding that unites athletes across the globe.If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)Chapters0:00 Introduction to Iron Culture and Competitors02:52 The Journey of Heitor and Adao in Bodybuilding05:58 First Competitive Experiences and Challenges08:53 The Importance of Community and Support in Bodybuilding12:06 Reflections on Early Competitions and Learning Experiences15:04 The Growth and Evolution of Heitor and Adao17:56 The Role of Feedback and Improvement in Competitions21:00 The Significance of Perseverance in Bodybuilding23:46 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations33:45 Celebrating Wins Together36:42 Experiences from Major Competitions39:42 Learning and Growth in Bodybuilding42:07 The Journey to World Championships46:12 Reflecting on 2024's Achievements49:32 Competing Frequently and Its Impact51:59 The Art of Bodybuilding and Continuous Improvement57:04 Balancing Competition and Health1:06:10 Body Composition and Individual Differences1:08:04 Training and Nutrition Strategies for Competitors1:10:56 The Importance of Off-Season Planning1:13:57 Mental Approach to Training and Competition1:17:59 Community and Relationships in Bodybuilding1:26:57 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Trexler interviews Dr. John Rusin, a personal trainer and strength coach with a doctorate in physical therapy. They discuss Dr. Rusin's journey from working with professional athletes to focusing on general population training, emphasizing the importance of injury prevention and pain management. Dr. Rusin shares insights from his new book, 'Pain-Free Performance,' which outlines foundational movement patterns and the significance of individualization in training. The conversation highlights the need for a well-rounded approach to fitness that prioritizes health and longevity alongside performance.If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (as use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount)If you want to check out Dr. Rusin's new book, app, or coaching services, check out these links:https://www.amazon.com/Pain-Free-Performance-Better-Smarter-Unbreakable/dp/162860509X/ref=zg_bs_g_4645_d_sccl_95/134-5360092-2910026?psc=1becomeunbreakable.comhttps://www.drjohnrusincoaching.com If you want to stay up-to-date with Dr. Rusin, you can check out his website and social media profiles:https://drjohnrusin.comhttps://www.instagram.com/drjohnrusinhttps://www.facebook.com/drjohnrusinhttps://www.youtube.com/@Dr.JohnRusinChapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. John Rusin02:44 Journey from Athlete to Coach05:52 High Performance Athletics and Injury Prevention08:46 Transitioning from Physical Therapy to Performance Coaching11:38 The Shift to General Population and Longevity14:43 Understanding Pain and Movement17:34 Foundational Movement Patterns in Training31:44 Rebuilding the Foundation: Movement Patterns and Training40:31 The Six Physical Characteristics of Health and Longevity52:49 Individualization and Optimization in Movement01:00:41 Empowering Pain-Free Performance

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms interviews Oscar Moscat, a pro natural bodybuilder who shares his journey in the sport. Oscar discusses the importance of personal motivation, family values, and the balance between competition and self-improvement. He emphasizes the significance of finding what works for each individual in training and the camaraderie within the bodybuilding community. The conversation also touches on Oscar's training philosophy, his aspirations for the future, and his desire to inspire the next generation of athletes.As always, please be sure to support our friends at elitefts.com! If you're in the market for some new gym gear or apparel, you can use our code (MRR10) for a 10% discountChapters00:00 Introduction to Iron Culture and Guest Introduction02:52 Oscar Moscat's Journey in Bodybuilding05:48 The Competitive Spirit and Personal Growth08:53 Balancing Family and Bodybuilding11:45 The Mindset of a Natural Bodybuilder14:43 Martial Arts Influence on Competitive Mindset17:40 The Pursuit of Personal Excellence20:45 Artistry and Competition in Bodybuilding34:30 The Art of Bodybuilding: Beyond Competition37:05 Genetics vs. Hard Work: A Bodybuilder's Perspective40:35 The Mindset of a Champion: Balancing Talent and Effort43:29 Passion and Drive: The Heart of Bodybuilding48:52 Individuality in Training: Finding What Works for You58:28 The Science of Bodybuilding: Applying Knowledge to Practice

In this episode, Eric Trexler and Eric Helms begin by discussing Helms' competition updates and the sad state of affairs in academic publishing (that is, scientific journals). Eric and Eric then take a deep dive into the complexities of central fatigue, systemic fatigue, the accumulation of fatigue, and deloading strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of personalized approaches to recovery and the role of intensity in achieving hypertrophy. They close by discussing misconceptions surrounding fatigue management in bodybuilding, the necessity of understanding the mechanisms behind muscle growth, and how current trends in "evidence-based content" are leading new lifters astray.If you're in the market for new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out elitefts.com and use our code (MRR10) to get a 10% discount.Chapters0:00 Introduction and Helms Bodybuilding Updates5:17 A New Threat to the Integrity of PhDs8:25 Academic publishing (i.e., scientific journals) is so over26:52 Understanding Systemic and Central Fatigue41:31 Holistic Approaches to Deloading and Fatigue Management1:00:42 Tiger Balm and Icy Hot1:08:04 Cardio (To Build Work Capacity for Bodybuilding)1:15:41 Current trends in "evidence-based content" are leading new lifters astray