Shows
The Muscle Engineer PodcastPick-up artists and does your girlfriend even lift?!Episode 57 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another Sustainable Shittalking episode. In this one, we discuss fitness professionals turning into dating “experts”, pick-up artists and how much our girlfriends being into fitness matters to us.1:20 Why do fitness professionals become business and dating coaches?5:30 Insecurities about physical traits and what matters most in dating13:13 Why the pickup industry is so cringy20:25 Libido talk and more on the pickup industry32:55 Our opinions on how much our girlfriends being into fitness matters to usRecommended resources for the week:https...
2021-03-151h 14
The Muscle Engineer PodcastPick-up artists and does your girlfriend even lift?!Episode 57 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another Sustainable Shittalking episode. In this one, we discuss fitness professionals turning into dating “experts”, pick-up artists and how much our girlfriends being into fitness matters to us.
1:20 Why do fitness professionals become business and dating coaches?
5:30 Insecurities about physical traits and what matters most in dating
13:13 Why the pickup industry is so cringy
20:25 Libido talk and more on the pickup industry
32:55 Our opinions on how much our girlfriends being into fitness matters to us
Recommended resources for the week:
ht...
2021-03-151h 14
The Muscle Engineer Podcast„Natty or not” videos, morality and our preference for „natural” thingsEpisode 56 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another Sustainable Shittalking episode. In this one, we get into a variety of subjects related to personal values, morality, the arbitrary glorification of “natural” status and more.
3:08 Lazar Angelov's recent video on his natural status
5:55 Abel’s rant on “Natty or not “ callouts
10:14 The ethics of “natty or not” videos
17:04 Discussing the ethics of public callouts
22:35 Ridiculous ways of assessing someone's natural status
28:37 Incentives for gear use in different sports
36:35 Would we use gear? And why do people consider using it?
...
2021-02-191h 24
The Muscle Engineer Podcast„Natty or not” videos, morality and our preference for „natural” thingsEpisode 56 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another Sustainable Shittalking episode. In this one, we get into a variety of subjects related to personal values, morality, the arbitrary glorification of “natural” status and more.3:08 Lazar Angelov's recent video on his natural status5:55 Abel’s rant on “Natty or not “ callouts10:14 The ethics of “natty or not” videos17:04 Discussing the ethics of public callouts22:35 Ridiculous ways of assessing someone's natural status28:37 Incentives for gear use in different sports36:35 Would we use gear? And why do people consider using it?51...
2021-02-191h 24
The Muscle Engineer PodcastMetabolically healthy obesity and giving advice to loved onesEpisode 55 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another segment that I co-host with Ábel Csabai, that I’m calling Sustainable Shittalking, until we come up with a better name. Suggestions welcome.
In this episode we covered:
0:00 Abel’s diet update and the impact of tiredness / lack of sleep on cravings
8:40 Abel reflecting on a memory that stuck with him
11:15 Why “knowledge isn’t the answer”
18:35 My take on the concept of “metabolically healthy obesity”
39:20 Why losing weight after becoming obese is so hard
42:40 Giving fitness advice to loved ones and my...
2021-02-091h 17
The Muscle Engineer PodcastMetabolically healthy obesity and giving advice to loved onesEpisode 55 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another segment that I co-host with Ábel Csabai, that I’m calling Sustainable Shittalking, until we come up with a better name. Suggestions welcome.In this episode we covered:0:00 Abel’s diet update and the impact of tiredness / lack of sleep on cravings8:40 Abel reflecting on a memory that stuck with him11:15 Why “knowledge isn’t the answer”18:35 My take on the concept of “metabolically healthy obesity”39:20 Why losing weight after becoming obese is so hard42:40 Giving fitness advice to loved ones and my...
2021-02-091h 17
The Muscle Engineer PodcastBodyfat distribution, and the importance of geneticsEpisode 54 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another episode with Ábel Csabai, which is part of a weekly – unnamed for now – segment we’re going to be doing together.
Topics discussed:
6:05 Why do we talk about genetics so often?
32:50 The pros and cons of trying to "optimize" everyting
36:36 Body fat percentages and different people looking different at the same body fat level
44:00 P-ratio and the optimal body fat percentage for starting a "bulking" phase
54:20 Why taking advice from naturally lean people is often problematic
1:03:03 Do we have disor...
2021-01-181h 21
The Muscle Engineer PodcastBodyfat distribution, and the importance of geneticsEpisode 54 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another episode with Ábel Csabai, which is part of a weekly – unnamed for now – segment we’re going to be doing together.Topics discussed:6:05 Why do we talk about genetics so often?32:50 The pros and cons of trying to "optimize" everyting36:36 Body fat percentages and different people looking different at the same body fat level44:00 P-ratio and the optimal body fat percentage for starting a "bulking" phase54:20 Why taking advice from naturally lean people is often problematic1:03:03 Do we have disor...
2021-01-181h 21
The Muscle Engineer Podcast2020 Year in review - getting lean, lessons learned, things I changed my mind aboutEpisode 52 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is an end-of-the-year recap of 2020, featuring Ábel Csabai. Topics discussed:0:00 - how was 2020 in general?9:31 - How I got pretty lean for my birthday 20:26 - Motivations to stay lean 33:42 - Abel taking steps to fix his sleep 42:45 - Abel's upcoming video on muscular potential56:51 Greg Doucette, the new star of YouTube 1:02:10 - Things I changed my mind about- Time restricted eating 1:06:57 - Changes in Abel's fitness approach 1:09:58 - Lessons on coaching 1:16:14 - Lessons on creating YouTube contentIf you want to apply for online coaching, email me:
andreiszotak@gmail.com
Sa...
2020-12-311h 22
The Muscle Engineer Podcast2020 Year in review - getting lean, lessons learned, things I changed my mind aboutEpisode 52 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is an end-of-the-year recap of 2020, featuring Ábel Csabai. Topics discussed:0:00 - how was 2020 in general?9:31 - How I got pretty lean for my birthday 20:26 - Motivations to stay lean 33:42 - Abel taking steps to fix his sleep 42:45 - Abel's upcoming video on muscular potential56:51 Greg Doucette, the new star of YouTube 1:02:10 - Things I changed my mind about- Time restricted eating 1:06:57 - Changes in Abel's fitness approach 1:09:58 - Lessons on coaching 1:16:14 - Lessons on creating YouTube contentIf you want to apply for online coaching, email me:andreiszotak@gmail.comSa...
2020-12-311h 22
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronaCast ep. 5 - Gyms are open, but will they close again?!Episode 51 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is yet another CoronaCast special, featuring Ábel Csabai. In this one we talk about the recent reopening of the gyms, and how likely they are to be closed again in the near future.
We also talk about how different governments handled the pandemic, how our thoughts about COVID-19 have evolved since it got serious back in March, and some fitness related stuff as well. Enjoy!
Topics discussed:
3:14 Update’s on Abel’s gym situation
6:45 How the world got separated based on how they handled COVID-19
2020-07-291h 27
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronaCast ep. 5 - Gyms are open, but will they close again?!Episode 51 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is yet another CoronaCast special, featuring Ábel Csabai. In this one we talk about the recent reopening of the gyms, and how likely they are to be closed again in the near future.We also talk about how different governments handled the pandemic, how our thoughts about COVID-19 have evolved since it got serious back in March, and some fitness related stuff as well. Enjoy!Topics discussed:3:14 Update’s on Abel’s gym situation6:45 How the world got separated based on how they handled COVID-19...
2020-07-291h 27
The Muscle Engineer PodcastJoe Jeffery – The best way to use anabolic steroidsIn episode 50 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am joined by UK physique coach Joe Jeffery to discuss the “best” way to use anabolic steroids. Of course, this is just for educational purposes, neither Joe nor I advocate using AAS’s, but if you do decide to do so, these are some considerations to take into account.
Topics discussed:
2:40 Brief mention of Joe’s TRT episode with the Muscle Mentors
5:10 Laying the groundwork for the subject of the episode
7:20 Oral only “cycles”
11:45 How can non-testosterone derived compounds still shut down the HPTA...
2020-07-2258 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastJoe Jeffery – The best way to use anabolic steroidsIn episode 50 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am joined by UK physique coach Joe Jeffery to discuss the “best” way to use anabolic steroids. Of course, this is just for educational purposes, neither Joe nor I advocate using AAS’s, but if you do decide to do so, these are some considerations to take into account.Topics discussed:2:40 Brief mention of Joe’s TRT episode with the Muscle Mentors5:10 Laying the groundwork for the subject of the episode7:20 Oral only “cycles”11:45 How can non-testosterone derived compounds still shut down the HPTA...
2020-07-2258 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast[ROMANIAN] Mădălina Ungur – Gândire critică și educația unui dieteticianEpisodul 49 a podcastului The Muscle Engineer marchează premierea în română, invitata de astăzi fiind Mădălina Ungur, nutriționist-dietetician, absolventă a Universității de Medicină şi Farmacie "Iuliu Haţieganu" din Cluj-Napoca.
În episodul de azi am discutat cum ni s-au părut anii de facultate, cât de bune au fost informațiile primite și ce „dispute” am avut cu profesorii când a venit vorba de „controverse” precum consumul de proteine sau suplimentarea cu creatină.
Cei care vor să lucreze cu mine mă pot contacta pe email:
andreiszotak@gmail.com
Mă găsiți pe so...
2020-06-081h 06
The Muscle Engineer Podcast[ROMANIAN] Mădălina Ungur – Gândire critică și educația unui dieteticianEpisodul 49 a podcastului The Muscle Engineer marchează premierea în română, invitata de astăzi fiind Mădălina Ungur, nutriționist-dietetician, absolventă a Universității de Medicină şi Farmacie "Iuliu Haţieganu" din Cluj-Napoca.În episodul de azi am discutat cum ni s-au părut anii de facultate, cât de bune au fost informațiile primite și ce „dispute” am avut cu profesorii când a venit vorba de „controverse” precum consumul de proteine sau suplimentarea cu creatină.Cei care vor să lucreze cu mine mă pot contacta pe email:andreiszotak@gmail.comMă găsiți pe soc...
2020-06-081h 06
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronaCast ep. 4 – Bad habits, 10.000 kcal challenges and getting fat during the lockdownEpisode 48 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another CoronaCast special, featuring Ábel Csabai. In this one we talk about our struggles during the lockdown, how and why I got fat, why 10.000 kcal challenges aren’t a challenge at all and more. Don’t miss out on a hilarious story Abel tells about his lowest point when it comes to emotional eating.
Enjoy!
You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7w
https://www.instagram.com/ssdabel
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/
If you...
2020-06-011h 26
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronaCast ep. 4 – Bad habits, 10.000 kcal challenges and getting fat during the lockdownEpisode 48 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another CoronaCast special, featuring Ábel Csabai. In this one we talk about our struggles during the lockdown, how and why I got fat, why 10.000 kcal challenges aren’t a challenge at all and more. Don’t miss out on a hilarious story Abel tells about his lowest point when it comes to emotional eating.Enjoy!You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7whttps://www.instagram.com/ssdabelhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/If you...
2020-06-011h 26
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronaCast #3 – Nutritional strategies during the lockdownEpisode 47 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another CoronaCast special, featuring Ábel Csabai. In this one we mostly focus on nutrition, different approaches people can take and I go “all in” in critiquing Stephanie Buttermore’s strategies, which I consider irresponsible and short-sighted for many people.
Enjoy!
You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7w
https://www.instagram.com/ssdabel
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/
If you want to apply for online coaching, email me:
andreiszotak@gmail.com
Sa...
2020-05-161h 35
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronaCast #3 – Nutritional strategies during the lockdownEpisode 47 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another CoronaCast special, featuring Ábel Csabai. In this one we mostly focus on nutrition, different approaches people can take and I go “all in” in critiquing Stephanie Buttermore’s strategies, which I consider irresponsible and short-sighted for many people.Enjoy!You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7whttps://www.instagram.com/ssdabelhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/If you want to apply for online coaching, email me:andreiszotak@gmail.comSay...
2020-05-161h 35
The Muscle Engineer PodcastDanny Lennon, MSc. – Chrononutrition and food timing during the lockdownIn episode 46 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Danny Lennon, for the third time, to discuss our current most interesting nutrition related topic – chrononutrition and how you should distribute calories throughout the day.
Topics discussed:
2:45 A general overview of chrononutrition
12:15 Lifting weights, counting calories and monitoring physical activity and how that might impact food timing considerations
25:20 Theoretical benefits vs the practical aspects of pushing calories towards the latter part of the day
30:05 Can you use caffeine instead of food to entrain a healthy circadian rhythm?
32:05 Ea...
2020-05-0859 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastDanny Lennon, MSc. – Chrononutrition and food timing during the lockdownIn episode 46 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Danny Lennon, for the third time, to discuss our current most interesting nutrition related topic – chrononutrition and how you should distribute calories throughout the day.Topics discussed:2:45 A general overview of chrononutrition12:15 Lifting weights, counting calories and monitoring physical activity and how that might impact food timing considerations25:20 Theoretical benefits vs the practical aspects of pushing calories towards the latter part of the day30:05 Can you use caffeine instead of food to entrain a healthy circadian rhythm?32:05 Ea...
2020-05-0859 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCOVID-19 TrainwreckEpisode 45 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another COVID-19 special featuring Ábel Csabai. We each give updates on the situation in our countries, detail our workout regimen and also offer some advice on what to buy the get the most out of your home workouts, alongside some uninformed opinions about the economic consequences of the lockdown. Enjoy!You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7whttps://www.instagram.com/ssdabelhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/If you want to apply fo...
2020-04-131h 07
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCOVID-19 TrainwreckEpisode 45 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is another COVID-19 special featuring Ábel Csabai. We each give updates on the situation in our countries, detail our workout regimen and also offer some advice on what to buy the get the most out of your home workouts, alongside some uninformed opinions about the economic consequences of the lockdown.
Enjoy!
You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7w
https://www.instagram.com/ssdabel
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/
If you want to apply fo...
2020-04-131h 07
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronavirus Special Episode, feat. Abel CsabaiEpisode 44 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a special episode with Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center. Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, we go over how we’re handling the situation, what we’re planning to do with our diets and workouts and more. Enjoy!
You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7w
https://www.instagram.com/ssdabel
https://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/
If you want to apply for online coaching, email me:
andreiszotak@gmail.com
Say “H...
2020-03-201h 11
The Muscle Engineer PodcastCoronavirus Special Episode, feat. Abel CsabaiEpisode 44 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a special episode with Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center. Given the current COVID-19 pandemic, we go over how we’re handling the situation, what we’re planning to do with our diets and workouts and more. Enjoy!You can find Ábel at:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzGVKv513I6Zb0u3mLsL_7whttps://www.instagram.com/ssdabelhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/sustainableselfdevelopment/If you want to apply for online coaching, email me:andreiszotak@gmail.comSay “H...
2020-03-201h 11
The Muscle Engineer PodcastTop 19 lessons learned in 2019Episode 43 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a meditation on this past year and a compilation of the top 19 things I learned – or rather, re-learned – about training, dieting and life in general.
The lessons:
Discipline equals freedom – everything you want is on the far side of hard work
Extreme ownership – your circumstances are YOUR responsibility
What you most want is to be found where you least want to look
The fool is the precursor to the savior
Tell the truth; or at least don’t lie
Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not who someone else is to...
2020-02-0337 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastTop 19 lessons learned in 2019Episode 43 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a meditation on this past year and a compilation of the top 19 things I learned – or rather, re-learned – about training, dieting and life in general.The lessons:Discipline equals freedom – everything you want is on the far side of hard workExtreme ownership – your circumstances are YOUR responsibilityWhat you most want is to be found where you least want to lookThe fool is the precursor to the saviorTell the truth; or at least don’t lieCompare yourself to who you were yesterday, not who someone else is todayYou can’t help someone...
2020-02-0337 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastDanny Lennon, MSc. – A scientific approach to weight cutting for MMAIn episode 42 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back my very first guest, Danny Lennon, this time around for a discussion about an essential part of MMA (a side interest of mine), namely weight cutting.
Beside being the host of my #1 go-to nutrition podcast, Sigma Nutrition Radio, Danny is also an educator in the field and as a practician, works with elite combat sports athletes on the exact issue we’re discussing here.
Topics discussed:
4:32 The difference in muscularity between people who have similar “stats”
8:25 Where is the sweet spot betwee...
2020-01-021h 09
The Muscle Engineer PodcastDanny Lennon, MSc. – A scientific approach to weight cutting for MMAIn episode 42 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back my very first guest, Danny Lennon, this time around for a discussion about an essential part of MMA (a side interest of mine), namely weight cutting.Beside being the host of my #1 go-to nutrition podcast, Sigma Nutrition Radio, Danny is also an educator in the field and as a practician, works with elite combat sports athletes on the exact issue we’re discussing here.Topics discussed:4:32 The difference in muscularity between people who have similar “stats”8:25 Where is the sweet spot betwee...
2020-01-021h 09
The Muscle Engineer PodcastEric Helms, PhD – Gym motivation, social media comparison and steroid (ab)use within gymsIn episode 41 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I finally sit down with one of my earliest role models in the industry – Eric Helms.
Eric has PhD in strength and conditioning, and is a research fellow for AUT at the Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand. Along with Greg Nuckols and Dr. Mike Zourdos, he created the monthly research review MASS (Monthly Applications in Strength Sports), which is my go-to resource for keeping up-to-date with the scentific literature. He is also the author of the Muscle & Strength Pyramid books, which are one of my top recommendations for people in...
2019-12-261h 26
The Muscle Engineer PodcastEric Helms, PhD – Gym motivation, social media comparison and steroid (ab)use within gymsIn episode 41 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I finally sit down with one of my earliest role models in the industry – Eric Helms.Eric has PhD in strength and conditioning, and is a research fellow for AUT at the Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand. Along with Greg Nuckols and Dr. Mike Zourdos, he created the monthly research review MASS (Monthly Applications in Strength Sports), which is my go-to resource for keeping up-to-date with the scentific literature. He is also the author of the Muscle & Strength Pyramid books, which are one of my top recommendations for people in...
2019-12-261h 26
The Muscle Engineer PodcastÁbel Csabai – How to get into the best shape of your life and why more knowledge ISN’T the answerIn episode 40 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined, once again, by fellow coach and podcaster Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center to talk about how he got into his best shape ever and what can you do to achieve the same.Topics discussed, with time stamps:2:10 Life in the last 6 months, and what made Ábel start a photoshoot prep?10:25 Why body fat / LBM math never works out and what are the causes of muscle loss during a deep end of a cut?19:30 Why knowledge isn’t the answer...
2019-11-251h 13
The Muscle Engineer PodcastÁbel Csabai – How to get into the best shape of your life and why more knowledge ISN’T the answerIn episode 40 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined, once again, by fellow coach and podcaster Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center to talk about how he got into his best shape ever and what can you do to achieve the same.
Topics discussed, with time stamps:
2:10 Life in the last 6 months, and what made Ábel start a photoshoot prep?
10:25 Why body fat / LBM math never works out and what are the causes of muscle loss during a deep end of a cut?
19:30 Why knowledge isn’t the answer...
2019-11-251h 13
The Muscle Engineer PodcastGary McGowan aka SkinnyGaz – Cervical extension “shuts off the glutes” and other myths bustedIn episode 39 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Triage Method co-founder Gary McGowan aka SkinnyGaz.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
4:00 Gary’s thoughts about physiotherapy school, overall experience, likes, dislikes
10:18 Foam rolling, cupping, other “recovery methods” and the notion that “If high level athletes do it, it must be good. “
17:10 If you expect something to help, it probably will
26:53 Heel elevation during squats – why can it be beneficial?
49:33 Spinal flexion under load – “stiff vs mobile spine” theory
1:00:00 Cervical extension during squats - does it really “shut of...
2019-11-181h 20
The Muscle Engineer PodcastGary McGowan aka SkinnyGaz – Cervical extension “shuts off the glutes” and other myths bustedIn episode 39 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Triage Method co-founder Gary McGowan aka SkinnyGaz.Topics discussed with time stamps:4:00 Gary’s thoughts about physiotherapy school, overall experience, likes, dislikes10:18 Foam rolling, cupping, other “recovery methods” and the notion that “If high level athletes do it, it must be good. “17:10 If you expect something to help, it probably will26:53 Heel elevation during squats – why can it be beneficial?49:33 Spinal flexion under load – “stiff vs mobile spine” theory1:00:00 Cervical extension during squats - does it really “shut of...
2019-11-181h 20
The Muscle Engineer PodcastSzotak Andrei – Training volume, effective reps, steroids and smarter exercise selectionEpisode 38 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a re-upload from The Science To Muscle Podcast, where I was invited to speak on a variety of training related topics. I had a lot of fun recording this and hope you’ll enjoy it too.Topics discussed with time stamps:3:18 – Experience as an intern with Renaissance Periodization and Dr. Mike Israetel5:20 - Volume prescription for online and in-person clients8:10 - Adding sets throughout a mesocycle11:20 - Jordan Peters as an example of being open minded in the fitness industry15:20 - Pr...
2019-11-111h 16
The Muscle Engineer PodcastSzotak Andrei – Training volume, effective reps, steroids and smarter exercise selectionEpisode 38 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a re-upload from The Science To Muscle Podcast, where I was invited to speak on a variety of training related topics. I had a lot of fun recording this and hope you’ll enjoy it too.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
3:18 – Experience as an intern with Renaissance Periodization and Dr. Mike Israetel
5:20 - Volume prescription for online and in-person clients
8:10 - Adding sets throughout a mesocycle
11:20 - Jordan Peters as an example of being open minded in the fitness industry
15:20 - Pr...
2019-11-111h 16
The Science to Muscle PodcastInterview with Szoták Andrei: Volume, Exercise Mechanics and RIRIn this episode Szoták Andrei joins us to talk about his approach to training volume with different clients, his thoughts on the recent effective reps model and how we can think about exercises based on resistance profile, throughout the conversation we also touch on the use of steroids and other interesting topics, here's the timestamp for the episode, enjoy!
TIMESTAMP
1:13 - Experience as an intern with Renaissance Periodization and Dr.Israetel
3:20 - Volume prescription for online and in-person clients
6:10 - Adding sets throughout a mesocycle
9:20...
2019-10-051h 12
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLessons learned from over 2000 days of calorie countingJust noticed I past the 2000 day mark on Myfitnesspal , so I figured I'd share some key insights, lessons and patterns I noticed throughout the years.
There is an IGTV episode on my profile, if you want a video version.
If you want to apply for online coaching, email me:
andreiszotak@gmail.com
Say “Hi” on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/szotaktme/
https://www.facebook.com/szotaktme
https://www.facebook.com/szotakandras
Get all the previous podcast episodes:
http://themuscleengineer.podbean.com/
2019-10-0124 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLessons learned from over 2000 days of calorie countingJust noticed I past the 2000 day mark on Myfitnesspal , so I figured I'd share some key insights, lessons and patterns I noticed throughout the years.There is an IGTV episode on my profile, if you want a video version.If you want to apply for online coaching, email me:andreiszotak@gmail.comSay “Hi” on social media:https://www.instagram.com/szotaktme/https://www.facebook.com/szotaktmehttps://www.facebook.com/szotakandrasGet all the previous podcast episodes:http://themuscleengineer.podbean.com/
2019-10-0124 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastNick Gloff – Training considerations for making reliable physique progressionIn episode 36 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am joined by Nick Gloff, who is one of the rare people who are strong, have fantastic execution AND are well educated.Topics discussed with time stamps:6:25 Nick’s background and training history16:36 How to balance striving for perfect execution vs actually progressing in loads29:32 Momentum - how much is acceptable and when is it too much, with barbell rows and dumbbell lateral raises used as examples42:26 Alignment and how to reduce joint stress on certain exercises (e.g. skullcrushers)...
2019-09-241h 24
The Muscle Engineer PodcastNick Gloff – Training considerations for making reliable physique progressionIn episode 36 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am joined by Nick Gloff, who is one of the rare people who are strong, have fantastic execution AND are well educated.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
6:25 Nick’s background and training history
16:36 How to balance striving for perfect execution vs actually progressing in loads
29:32 Momentum - how much is acceptable and when is it too much, with barbell rows and dumbbell lateral raises used as examples
42:26 Alignment and how to reduce joint stress on certain exercises (e.g. skullcrushers)
...
2019-09-241h 24
The Muscle Engineer PodcastGreg Nuckols – If you can believe it, you can achieve itIn episode 35 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am once again joined by Greg Nuckols for the second part of our conversation. If you missed episode 33, make sure to listen to that first.Topics discussed with time stamps:1:23 The power of belief - false “steroid” studies and mental limitations15:40 One weird trick to overcome a mental limitation in a certain lift21:16 The impact of the environment you train in has on your results and what can you do about it33:22 Implementable stuff vs learning things for the sake of lear...
2019-08-2144 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastGreg Nuckols – If you can believe it, you can achieve itIn episode 35 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am once again joined by Greg Nuckols for the second part of our conversation. If you missed episode 33, make sure to listen to that first.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
1:23 The power of belief - false “steroid” studies and mental limitations
15:40 One weird trick to overcome a mental limitation in a certain lift
21:16 The impact of the environment you train in has on your results and what can you do about it
33:22 Implementable stuff vs learning things for the sake of lear...
2019-08-2144 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLyle Mcdonald – Cellulite: what is it and what can you do about it?In episode 34 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast we continue episode 32 with the final part of this long conversation with Lyle McDonald. This is all about one of women’s biggest nightmares – cellulite.Topics discussed with time stamps:1:41 Cellulite basics – what is it and what causes it?10:20 Cellulite treatments – do they work or not?25:35 Could bigger glute muscles help with the visual aspect of it?You can find Lyle at:https://bodyrecomposition.com/https://www.facebook.com/groups/810890695609053/If you want to apply for online c...
2019-08-1534 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLyle Mcdonald – Cellulite: what is it and what can you do about it?In episode 34 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast we continue episode 32 with the final part of this long conversation with Lyle McDonald. This is all about one of women’s biggest nightmares – cellulite.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
1:41 Cellulite basics – what is it and what causes it?
10:20 Cellulite treatments – do they work or not?
25:35 Could bigger glute muscles help with the visual aspect of it?
You can find Lyle at:
https://bodyrecomposition.com/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/810890695609053/
If you want to apply for online c...
2019-08-1534 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastGreg Nuckols - Why you’re not as strong as your favorite lifterIn episode 33 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am joined by one of the nicest – and smartest – guys in our industry, Greg Nuckols.Greg has over a decade of experience under the bar and a B.S. in exercise and sports science. He is currently enrolled in the exercise science M.A. program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He’s held three all-time world records in powerlifting in the 220lb and 242lb classes. Greg is also one-third of Monthly Applications in Strength Sport (MASS), a monthly research review he runs with Eric Helms and Mi...
2019-08-061h 26
The Muscle Engineer PodcastGreg Nuckols - Why you’re not as strong as your favorite lifterIn episode 33 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am joined by one of the nicest – and smartest – guys in our industry, Greg Nuckols.
Greg has over a decade of experience under the bar and a B.S. in exercise and sports science. He is currently enrolled in the exercise science M.A. program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He’s held three all-time world records in powerlifting in the 220lb and 242lb classes. Greg is also one-third of Monthly Applications in Strength Sport (MASS), a monthly research review he runs with Eric Helms and Mi...
2019-08-061h 26
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLyle Mcdonald – N.E.AT. vs Constrained Total Energy ExpenditureIn episode 32 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast we continue episode 30 and pick up where we left off with Lyle McDonald. In this episode we discuss the “energy out” component of energy balance and contrast James Levine’s N.E.AT. model with Herman Pontzer’s Constrained Total Energy Expenditure model.Topics discussed with time stamps:1:25 The components of energy expenditure and how James Levin’s N.E.A.T. fits in32:55 Herman Pontzer’s Constrained Total Energy Expenditure model53:34 My top take-aways from this episodeResources and further reading:https...
2019-07-1757 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLyle Mcdonald – N.E.AT. vs Constrained Total Energy ExpenditureIn episode 32 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast we continue episode 30 and pick up where we left off with Lyle McDonald. In this episode we discuss the “energy out” component of energy balance and contrast James Levine’s N.E.AT. model with Herman Pontzer’s Constrained Total Energy Expenditure model.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
1:25 The components of energy expenditure and how James Levin’s N.E.A.T. fits in
32:55 Herman Pontzer’s Constrained Total Energy Expenditure model
53:34 My top take-aways from this episode
Resources and further reading:
https...
2019-07-1757 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastAdam Tzur – Keto adherence rates, hunger reduction and the psychology of dietingIn episode 31 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Adam Tzur for the third part of our deep-dive into ketogenic dieting.Topics discussed with time stamps:02:51 Does a ketogenic diet reduce hunger more than a “regular” diet and if so, why?11:46 How hard is it to stick to a keto diet? (no pun intended lol )18:13 Is it harder to adhere to a ketogenic diet compared to any “named” / controlled diet?22:50 How to transition away from a ketogenic diet to a more “balanced” diet long term?28:40 The value of hav...
2019-07-021h 02
The Muscle Engineer PodcastAdam Tzur – Keto adherence rates, hunger reduction and the psychology of dietingIn episode 31 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Adam Tzur for the third part of our deep-dive into ketogenic dieting.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
02:51 Does a ketogenic diet reduce hunger more than a “regular” diet and if so, why?
11:46 How hard is it to stick to a keto diet? (no pun intended lol )
18:13 Is it harder to adhere to a ketogenic diet compared to any “named” / controlled diet?
22:50 How to transition away from a ketogenic diet to a more “balanced” diet long term?
28:40 The value of hav...
2019-07-021h 02
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLyle Mcdonald – Updated thoughts on refeeds and diet breaksIn episode 30 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back the one and only Lyle McDonald to discuss how his thought process around refeeds and diet breaks has evolved since the publication of the original “ Guide to Flexible Dieting “ , 15 years ago.Topics discussed with time stamps:03:08 Refeeds and diet breaks – are they necessary and / or superior to a strict diet phase?20:10 Dieting as a learning experience25:05 Different refeeding strategies and the value of each37:15 The role of a full diet break42:50 The role of maintenance phases48:55...
2019-06-1852 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastLyle Mcdonald – Updated thoughts on refeeds and diet breaksIn episode 30 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back the one and only Lyle McDonald to discuss how his thought process around refeeds and diet breaks has evolved since the publication of the original “ Guide to Flexible Dieting “ , 15 years ago.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
03:08 Refeeds and diet breaks – are they necessary and / or superior to a strict diet phase?
20:10 Dieting as a learning experience
25:05 Different refeeding strategies and the value of each
37:15 The role of a full diet break
42:50 The role of maintenance phases
48:55...
2019-06-1852 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastPaddy Farrell - Exercise selection and individualization for muscle growthIn episode 29 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back my unofficial very first guest for a re-recording of our initial episode that had some audio issues, and this second take turned out much better than the first one.Topics discussed with time stamps:2:44 Paddy’s background and how his mindset around exercise selection has evolved throughout the years16:00 What makes an exercise an effective option for muscle growth?47:46 The need to lift with “full range of motion” and the distinction between active vs passive range of motion1:05:18 How can so...
2019-06-071h 37
The Muscle Engineer PodcastPaddy Farrell - Exercise selection and individualization for muscle growthIn episode 29 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back my unofficial very first guest for a re-recording of our initial episode that had some audio issues, and this second take turned out much better than the first one.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
2:44 Paddy’s background and how his mindset around exercise selection has evolved throughout the years
16:00 What makes an exercise an effective option for muscle growth?
47:46 The need to lift with “full range of motion” and the distinction between active vs passive range of motion
1:05:18 How can so...
2019-06-071h 37
The Muscle Engineer PodcastMike Israetel & Ábel Csabai – A guide to rational anabolic substance useIn episode 28 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am once again joined by dr. Mike Israetel and I also welcome back fellow podcaster Ábel Csabai for a follow-up to episode 26 (which I’d recommend listening to first).In this one we stay on the topic of performance enhancing drugs but take a much more practical route.Topics discussed with time stamps:3:10 What to expect from taking an initial dose of PED’s (~300 mg of test per week for example)?13:43 What should a proper “first cycle” look like?25:50 How can you tell...
2019-04-241h 29
The Muscle Engineer PodcastMike Israetel & Ábel Csabai – A guide to rational anabolic substance useIn episode 28 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I am once again joined by dr. Mike Israetel and I also welcome back fellow podcaster Ábel Csabai for a follow-up to episode 26 (which I’d recommend listening to first).
In this one we stay on the topic of performance enhancing drugs but take a much more practical route.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
3:10 What to expect from taking an initial dose of PED’s (~300 mg of test per week for example)?
13:43 What should a proper “first cycle” look like?
25:50 How can you tell...
2019-04-241h 29
The Muscle Engineer PodcastAdam Tzur - Ketogenic dieting for fat loss and body composition optimizationIn episode 27 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Adam Tzur for the second part of our deep-dive into ketogenic dieting.Topics discussed with time stamps:3:10 Energy balance fundamentals and ways the ketogenic diet can or cannot circumvent them12:06 What does it mean to become “fat adapted”, how long does it take and it’s impact on fuel utilization24:45 Does being “fat adapted” have a preferential effect on fat loss, when compared to a higher carb diet?32:55 How does a ketogenic diet impact high volume resistance training performance and muscle...
2019-03-271h 04
The Muscle Engineer PodcastAdam Tzur - Ketogenic dieting for fat loss and body composition optimizationIn episode 27 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I welcome back Adam Tzur for the second part of our deep-dive into ketogenic dieting.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
3:10 Energy balance fundamentals and ways the ketogenic diet can or cannot circumvent them
12:06 What does it mean to become “fat adapted”, how long does it take and it’s impact on fuel utilization
24:45 Does being “fat adapted” have a preferential effect on fat loss, when compared to a higher carb diet?
32:55 How does a ketogenic diet impact high volume resistance training performance and muscle...
2019-03-271h 04
The Muscle Engineer PodcastMike Israetel – A critical examination of responsible PED usageIn episode 26 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by dr. Mike Israetel for a conversation about performance enhancing drugs and various circumstances where their usage may or may not be appropriate.Topics discussed with time stamps:4:30 Basic overview of what performance enhancing drugs (PED’s) are9:06 Mike’s thoughts on teenagers taking PED’s within a couple weeks or months of training22:45 A discussion about trying to impress women by taking PED’s and the type of physique that is appealing to most women30:24 Mike’s thoughts on people be...
2019-03-131h 17
The Muscle Engineer PodcastMike Israetel – A critical examination of responsible PED usageIn episode 26 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by dr. Mike Israetel for a conversation about performance enhancing drugs and various circumstances where their usage may or may not be appropriate.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
4:30 Basic overview of what performance enhancing drugs (PED’s) are
9:06 Mike’s thoughts on teenagers taking PED’s within a couple weeks or months of training
22:45 A discussion about trying to impress women by taking PED’s and the type of physique that is appealing to most women
30:24 Mike’s thoughts on people be...
2019-03-131h 17
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#25 Adam Tzur – Ketogenic diet fundamentals, carb and protein intake limits and issues with keto studiesIn episode 25 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Adam Tzur of the Sci-Fit website for the first part of many episodes where we will take a deep look at various aspects of a ketogenic diet.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
3:10 Adam’s background, what made him start this series and how the data collection went
11:12 What is ketosis, how it differs how ketoacidosis and how is it typically measured
19:20 What should the macronutrients ratio be in a properly set up ketogenic diet and how does activity levels influence them...
2019-02-271h 02
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#25 Adam Tzur – Ketogenic diet fundamentals, carb and protein intake limits and issues with keto studiesIn episode 25 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Adam Tzur of the Sci-Fit website for the first part of many episodes where we will take a deep look at various aspects of a ketogenic diet.Topics discussed with time stamps:3:10 Adam’s background, what made him start this series and how the data collection went11:12 What is ketosis, how it differs how ketoacidosis and how is it typically measured19:20 What should the macronutrients ratio be in a properly set up ketogenic diet and how does activity levels influence them...
2019-02-271h 02
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#24 Ábel Csabai – “The truth shall set you free” – debunking common nutritional practicesIn episode 24 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined once again by Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center to discuss commonly seen nutrition practices that are more or less necessary and / or productive.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
5:26 The biggest reason for confusion - focusing on methods and not understanding the principles
14:53 Lack of knowledge and experience and not having empathy for others
21:20 Things that are absolutely necessary - calorie deficit, sufficient protein, sufficient micronutrients
24:03 Things that are not necessary but are probably helpful - having carb...
2019-02-141h 18
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#24 Ábel Csabai – “The truth shall set you free” – debunking common nutritional practicesIn episode 24 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined once again by Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center to discuss commonly seen nutrition practices that are more or less necessary and / or productive.Topics discussed with time stamps:5:26 The biggest reason for confusion - focusing on methods and not understanding the principles14:53 Lack of knowledge and experience and not having empathy for others21:20 Things that are absolutely necessary - calorie deficit, sufficient protein, sufficient micronutrients24:03 Things that are not necessary but are probably helpful - having carb...
2019-02-141h 18
The Muscle Engineer Podcast[ROMANIAN] #23 Szotak Andrei – Progres vs varietate, tipare de mișcare, importanța proteinelor la fiecare masăEpisodul 23 a podcastului marchează prima mea aparență ca invitat în limba română, în episodul 2 a podcastului The Fit Podcast, cu Răzvan Delibașa.
Time stamps:
5:47 Cum am ajuns să colaborez cu Mike Israetel?
7:56 Care sunt cele mai mari provocări și obstacole ale clienților mei pentru a-și atinge obiectivele?
11:07 Din punct de vedere al antrenamentului, care e abordarea mea pas cu pas cu clienții?
14:58 Tipare de mișcare vs exerciții specifice
19:34 Compromisul între varietate și progres măsurabil
23:43 Ce înseamnă specificitate...
2019-02-0451 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast[ROMANIAN] #23 Szotak Andrei – Progres vs varietate, tipare de mișcare, importanța proteinelor la fiecare masăEpisodul 23 a podcastului marchează prima mea aparență ca invitat în limba română, în episodul 2 a podcastului The Fit Podcast, cu Răzvan Delibașa.Time stamps:5:47 Cum am ajuns să colaborez cu Mike Israetel?7:56 Care sunt cele mai mari provocări și obstacole ale clienților mei pentru a-și atinge obiectivele?11:07 Din punct de vedere al antrenamentului, care e abordarea mea pas cu pas cu clienții?14:58 Tipare de mișcare vs exerciții specifice19:34 Compromisul între varietate și progres măsurabil23:43 Ce înseamnă specificitate...
2019-02-0451 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#22 Lyle McDonald – Female physiology 101 & Setting up a fat loss dietIn episode 22 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I finally bring on board one of the pioneers of the evidence based fitness community, the man who needs no introduction, Lyle McDonald.Topics discussed with time stamps:3:39 A discussion about The DIETFITS trial by Gardner et al. 2018 and low carbs vs low fat diets in general33:51 Menstrual cycle 101 and the impact of different phases on bodyweight and hunger levels41:55 Setting up a female’s fat loss diet - determining energy needs45:02 Determining macronutrient intakes – protein overfeeding and body recomposition54:26 Dete...
2019-02-011h 38
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#22 Lyle McDonald – Female physiology 101 & Setting up a fat loss dietIn episode 22 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I finally bring on board one of the pioneers of the evidence based fitness community, the man who needs no introduction, Lyle McDonald.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
3:39 A discussion about The DIETFITS trial by Gardner et al. 2018 and low carbs vs low fat diets in general
33:51 Menstrual cycle 101 and the impact of different phases on bodyweight and hunger levels
41:55 Setting up a female’s fat loss diet - determining energy needs
45:02 Determining macronutrient intakes – protein overfeeding and body recomposition
54:26 Dete...
2019-02-011h 38
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#21 Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna - How to optimise the satiety index of your dietEpisode 21 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is part two of my conversation with Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna, where we dissect the topic of satiety.Topics discussed with time stamps:1:15 What is satiety and why is it important?6:50 Lessons learned from almost half a million days of MyFitnessPal data10:33 Vincent’s pedantic critique of Marty’s definition of satiety (lol)16:44 The limitations of using self-inputted MyFitnessPal data25:16 Protein’s effects on satiety46:01 How long does it take to develop a nutrient deficiency and should we eat se...
2019-01-1653 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#21 Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna - How to optimise the satiety index of your dietEpisode 21 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is part two of my conversation with Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna, where we dissect the topic of satiety.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
1:15 What is satiety and why is it important?
6:50 Lessons learned from almost half a million days of MyFitnessPal data
10:33 Vincent’s pedantic critique of Marty’s definition of satiety (lol)
16:44 The limitations of using self-inputted MyFitnessPal data
25:16 Protein’s effects on satiety
46:01 How long does it take to develop a nutrient deficiency and should we eat se...
2019-01-1653 minThe Muscle Engineer Podcast#20 Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna - Nutrient density roundtable discussionEpisode 20 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is an in-depth dive into the topic of nutrient density with Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna.
Topics addressed with time stamps:
3:05 Marty’s intro and the Janury challenge he has put out
17:00 What is nutrient density and why is it important?
21:18 Potential issues with the nutrient density ranking
25:03 Why do some foods many consider nutrient dense (such as nuts, avocado, dairy) rank lower in Marty’s nutrient density scale?
29:21 The importance of keeping calories in mind even when focusing on nutrients
2019-01-011h 08
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#20 Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna - Nutrient density roundtable discussionEpisode 20 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is an in-depth dive into the topic of nutrient density with Marty Kendall and Vincent Sparagna.Topics addressed with time stamps:3:05 Marty’s intro and the Janury challenge he has put out17:00 What is nutrient density and why is it important?21:18 Potential issues with the nutrient density ranking25:03 Why do some foods many consider nutrient dense (such as nuts, avocado, dairy) rank lower in Marty’s nutrient density scale?29:21 The importance of keeping calories in mind even when focusing on nutrients
2019-01-011h 08The Muscle Engineer Podcast#19 Roundtable Discussion - Deloading MasterclassEpisode 19 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a roundtable discussion dissecting the topic of deloading, which was originally released as episode 99 of Abel Csabai’s Sustainable Self Development podcast.
In this episode Abel, Vincent Sparagna and myself pretty much beat to death deloading in an episode that’s – in my obviously biased opinion – the most in-depth yet practical discussion on the matter.
Topics addressed with time stamps: 5:24 – What is deloading and what’s the purpose behind it?
9:54 – Are deloads necessary or could you get away with not taking them?
12:20 – Is there a need to pre-sch...
2018-08-011h 24
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#19 Roundtable Discussion - Deloading MasterclassEpisode 19 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast is a roundtable discussion dissecting the topic of deloading, which was originally released as episode 99 of Abel Csabai’s Sustainable Self Development podcast.In this episode Abel, Vincent Sparagna and myself pretty much beat to death deloading in an episode that’s – in my obviously biased opinion – the most in-depth yet practical discussion on the matter.Topics addressed with time stamps: 5:24 – What is deloading and what’s the purpose behind it?9:54 – Are deloads necessary or could you get away with not taking them?12:20 – Is there a need to pre-sch...
2018-08-011h 24
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#18 Szoták Andrei - Progressive overload and the best ways to progress your trainingEpisode 18 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast marks my first appearance as a podcast guest, having been featured on episode 98 of Abel Csabai’s Sustainable Self Development podcast, where we discussed progressive overload and different methods of progressing your training.
Topics discussed with time stamps: 2:41 My background
8:35 – What should we know about progressive overload
14:41 – The advantages and disadvantages of progressing in weight
21:48 – What to do when you can’t keep adding weight
25:17 – Progressing by adding reps
39:28 – The utility of down-sets (dropping the weight in subsequent sets)
42:34 – Adding sets over...
2018-05-141h 12
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#18 Szoták Andrei - Progressive overload and the best ways to progress your trainingEpisode 18 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast marks my first appearance as a podcast guest, having been featured on episode 98 of Abel Csabai’s Sustainable Self Development podcast, where we discussed progressive overload and different methods of progressing your training.Topics discussed with time stamps: 2:41 My background8:35 – What should we know about progressive overload14:41 – The advantages and disadvantages of progressing in weight21:48 – What to do when you can’t keep adding weight25:17 – Progressing by adding reps39:28 – The utility of down-sets (dropping the weight in subsequent sets)42:34 – Adding sets over...
2018-05-141h 12
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#17 Key lessons from episodes #15 and #16 - Insulin sensitivity, dietary fat sources, sleep and finding what works for youIn episode 17 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m ridin’ solo, and look back on the last 2 episodes, giving what I considered to be the top 3 take-aways from each. Enjoy!
Topics discussed with time stamps:
1:06 A mini-rant on so called “evidence based” people dismissing anything that’s not published in a scientific journal
Episode #15 key lessons
3:28 #1 Don’t be afraid to try something out, even if it doesn’t have scientific backing and if it works for you, stick with it
6:25 #2 Something can be helpful short term, even if it’s unsustain...
2018-04-2825 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#17 Key lessons from episodes #15 and #16 - Insulin sensitivity, dietary fat sources, sleep and finding what works for youIn episode 17 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m ridin’ solo, and look back on the last 2 episodes, giving what I considered to be the top 3 take-aways from each. Enjoy!Topics discussed with time stamps:1:06 A mini-rant on so called “evidence based” people dismissing anything that’s not published in a scientific journalEpisode #15 key lessons3:28 #1 Don’t be afraid to try something out, even if it doesn’t have scientific backing and if it works for you, stick with it6:25 #2 Something can be helpful short term, even if it’s unsustain...
2018-04-2825 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#16 Adel Moussa - Insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation. Glucose disposal agents and taurine supplementationWhen Adel, at that time still a physics student in his early twenties, became really interested in resistance training, nutrition and supplementation, there were few unbiased evidence-based sources with information on how to train, eat and supplement on the Internet. So what do you do if no one offers the non-sponsored, impartial, science-based content you'd like to read? Well, Adel decided to create this educative and science-based content himself... And that’s how his blog, SuppVersity (Supplement + University) was born. The idea to review and communicate the latest results from nutrition, supplementation and exercise science is still at the he...
2018-04-151h 18
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#16 Adel Moussa - Insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation. Glucose disposal agents and taurine supplementationWhen Adel, at that time still a physics student in his early twenties, became really interested in resistance training, nutrition and supplementation, there were few unbiased evidence-based sources with information on how to train, eat and supplement on the Internet. So what do you do if no one offers the non-sponsored, impartial, science-based content you'd like to read? Well, Adel decided to create this educative and science-based content himself... And that’s how his blog, SuppVersity (Supplement + University) was born. The idea to review and communicate the latest results from nutrition, supplementation and exercise science is still at the he...
2018-04-151h 18
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#15 Børge Fagerli – Carnivore Diet experiment; seasonal variations in food selection and intakeIn episode 15 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by legendary Norwegian coach and educator Børge Fagerli to discuss his recent Carnivore diet experiment and a variety of related nutritional concepts.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
3:10 What made Børge decide to try this diet and was there a particular scientific reasoning behind this approach when the vast majority of nutrition points in a pretty much opposite direction - plant based diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables are what people in the blue zones seem to mostly eat
14:40 What meats did...
2018-03-261h 19
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#15 Børge Fagerli – Carnivore Diet experiment; seasonal variations in food selection and intakeIn episode 15 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by legendary Norwegian coach and educator Børge Fagerli to discuss his recent Carnivore diet experiment and a variety of related nutritional concepts.Topics discussed with time stamps:3:10 What made Børge decide to try this diet and was there a particular scientific reasoning behind this approach when the vast majority of nutrition points in a pretty much opposite direction - plant based diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables are what people in the blue zones seem to mostly eat14:40 What meats did...
2018-03-261h 19
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#14 Scott Stevenson, PhD - Volume vs intensity, training to failure and the importance of mental conditioningIn episode 14 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Dr. Scott Stevenson for the second part of our conversation about muscle hypertrophy and the best ways to grow muscle. If you haven’t listened to the first part, make sure to check out episode 13 too!Topics discussed with time stamps:1:44 Which is the most important factor for hypertrophy, volume or intensity, taking into account variability in response to training between different people?18:18 Should you take all sets to failure or leave a couple of reps in reserve, to accumulate more overall volu...
2018-03-1451 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#14 Scott Stevenson, PhD - Volume vs intensity, training to failure and the importance of mental conditioningIn episode 14 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Dr. Scott Stevenson for the second part of our conversation about muscle hypertrophy and the best ways to grow muscle. If you haven’t listened to the first part, make sure to check out episode 13 too!
Topics discussed with time stamps:
1:44 Which is the most important factor for hypertrophy, volume or intensity, taking into account variability in response to training between different people?
18:18 Should you take all sets to failure or leave a couple of reps in reserve, to accumulate more overall volu...
2018-03-1451 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#13 Scott Stevenson, PhD - DC training and developing fortitude; Muscle hypertrophy and hyperplasiaIn episode 13 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Dr. Scott W. Stevenson, an applied exercise physiologist (PhD from University of Georgia, ACSM and NSCA-certified), licensed acupuncturist (State of Florida) and competitive bodybuilder (four overall titles, including the 2009 NPC Mr. Arizona, and four top 5 national level showings). Scott has over 35 years in the gym and two decades of experience personal training and coaching online.
Scott believes in keeping an open “beginner’s minded” approach to finding what works, while blending his experience, Western science and Eastern medicine. He coaches from the perspective of educator, hoping his clie...
2018-03-051h 15
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#12 Abel Csabai - Intuitive eating strategies for fat loss and muscle gainIn episode 12 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Ábel Csabai of The Sustainable Self Development Center to discuss ad libitum dieting, or as it’s more commonly known – intuitive eating.
Ábel is the host of The Sustainable Self Development podcast, where he interviews people in fitness and personal development related topics, and puts out a lot of content on topics such as the psychology of dieting, creating a sustainable approach to training and nutrition, and general self improvement.
During our conversation we discuss his experience with macro tracking, why he transitioned into a more i...
2018-02-061h 08
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#11 Melody Schoenfeld, MS – A science-based, objective analysis of the vegan dietIn episode 11 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Melody Schoenfeld for a science-based, objective analysis of the vegan diet and lifestyle.
Melody Schoenfeld is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the NSCA, Certified Nutrition Specialist, Certified Massage Therapist and a personal trainer with over 20 years of experience in the field.
Melody holds a master's degree in health psychology and writes and speaks both nationally and internationally on a wide variety of health and fitness subjects. She has held state and American records in all three lifts in powerlifting (squat, bench press, de...
2018-01-2756 min
The Muscle Engineer PodcastTME #10 Trevor Johnson - Overcoming alcohol addiction and losing 50 lbs with a super high protein diet
In episode 10 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast I’m joined by Trevor Johnson, a personal trainer and fitness consultant and overall super smart evidence-based guy to talk about how he overcame alcohol addiction, the diet strategies he used to lose 50 lbs and mistakes people make with high intensity training.
We also touch on other controversial topics, such as sugar addiction and whether it exists or not, how much control do we really have on how much we eat, and much much more.
Topics discussed with time stamps:
2:56 Background on Trevor’s fitne...
2018-01-171h 14
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#9 Brandon Roberts, PhD – Periodization concepts and methods for bodybuildingIn this episode I’m joined by Dr. Brandon Roberts to discuss some concepts related to periodization and various methods of implementing it for bodybuilding.
Brandon has a PhD in Muscle Biology and is currently a Postdoctoral, with research interests that include the molecular pathways that are involved in muscle regeneration and resistance-exercise adaptations.
Aside from being a peer-reviewed research, he has written articles for Stronger by Science and Alan Aragon’s Research Review (AARR), among many others.
In addition to his academic pedigree, Brandon works as the Director of Research & Education and as a...
2018-01-0953 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#8 Aaron Horschig, DPT – Squats for physique developmentIn this episode I’m joined by Dr. Aaron Horschig, a physical therapist, strength & conditioning coach, speaker, writer and the founder of Squat University, who now works at Boost Physical Therapy & Sport Performance in Kansas City Missouri.
Aaron’s background includes being involved in the sport of olympic weightlifting as an athlete and coach for over the past decade.
During our conversation we discuss a variety of topics related to squatting for phyisque development, including the influence of bar position, stance width and depth on muscle recruitment, the impact of anatomy on how your squats will...
2018-01-041h 04
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#7 Eric Trexler, MSc - The Fat Free Mass Index (FFMI) and the human drug free muscular potentialIn this episode I'm joined by Eric Trexler to discuss the origins of the Fat Free Mass Index (FFMI) and some of the issues with the Kouri et al paper, the common belief that a 25 FFMI is the highest you can achieve naturally, the results of Eric’s FFMI paper and how you can use your own FFMI to determine how should you approach your muscle gain periods, plus much, much more.
Eric is a PhD student at UNC Chapel Hill, under Dr. Abbie Smith-Ryan, with a research focus on how exercise and nutrition affect metabolism, performance, an...
2017-12-2453 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#6 Brad Dieter, PhD - Fructose consumption and it's impact on exercise performance and healthToday's guest is Brad Dieter, a trained Exercise Physiologist, Molecular Biologist, and Biostatistician. He has a Masters of Science in Biomechanics and a PhD in Exercise Physiology. He completed his post-doctoral fellowship in translational science at Providence Medical Research Center, Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Children’s Hospital where he studied how metabolism and inflammation regulate molecular mechanisms disease and is involved in discovering novel therapeutics for diabetic complications.
In addition to his lab and biostatistics work, Dr. Dieter is the Chief Scientific Officer at Eat to Perform and is passionate about scientific outreach and educating th...
2017-12-1648 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#5 Nicolas Verhoeven, MSc - Inflammation and it's impact on muscle growth and healthIn this episode I'm joined by Nicolas Verhoeven to discuss inflammation.
Nicolas is currently finishing up his Masters in Exercise Physiology, with his thesis focusing on muscle atrophy, as it relates to sarcopenia and cachexia.
He runs a YouTube channel called Physionic and a blog with the same name, on which he shares evidence based information about a variety of topics related to physiology, nutrition and general health.
During our conversation we tackle the controversial topic of inflammation, and it’s implications for muscle growth and health. If you’re interested in knowing what...
2017-12-0957 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#4 Alex Leaf, MSc - Glycine metabolism and it's importance for health and longevityIn this episode I'm joined by Alex Leaf for a very in-depth, yet practical discussion on glycine.
Alex has a Master’s degree in Nutrition and currently works for Examine.com, the number 1 resource for independent and unbiased supplement reviews and nutrition information.
In this episode we go deep into the biochemistry of glycine metabolism and utilization and it’s potential roles for improving longevity, blood sugar managment and cognitive function, among others, but we also give practical suggestions that you can implement right away.You can find Alex at:https://www.leaf-nutrition.com/
ht...
2017-12-0155 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#3 Joshua Verduzco, RD - Insights into becoming and being a registered dietitianToday I’m joined by Joshua Verduzco, a certified personal trainer who has an MSc degree in Human Sciences with a major in Human Nutrition and is a registered dietitian who works at Christus Spohn Hospital in Corpus Christi, Texas, as a clinical dietitician.We discuss his educational background, how he ended up becoming an RD, the steps towards becoming an RD, the rotations that were part of his internship and much more. If you’re interested in what it takes to be a registered dietitian or maybe you want to become one yourself, then this episode is for you...
2017-11-2452 min
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#2 Gary McGowan aka SkinnyGaz - The mindset and the approaches behind a successful fat loss phaseEpisode 2 of The Muscle Engineer Podcast, in which I’m joined by Triage Method’s co-founder Gary McGowan aka SkinnyGaz to talk about his personal fat loss phase, customizing the approach for the individual, mindset “hacks”, refeeds, taking responsability for your goals and much, much more. We also get into some of my personal experiences and challenges with fat loss that I’m sure many can relate to.You can find Gary at:https://www.facebook.com/triagemethod/ https://www.instagram.com/skinnygaz/ https://www.instagram.com/triagemethod/ https://triagemethod.com/ Get in contact with me:
https://www.facebo...
2017-11-161h 05
The Muscle Engineer Podcast#1 Danny Lennon - Effective Science communicationDanny has a formal scientific background in academia, completing a master’s degree (MSc.) in Nutritional Sciences at University College Cork. During this time Danny researched vitamin D, directly under the world-renowned researcher Professor Kevin Cashman.
In addition to that research, Danny took classes in biochemistry, clinical nutrition, micronutrient interactions and physiology. Previous to this Danny also completed a BSc. Degree in biology and physics education and spent a year teaching these subjects.
As well as producing media content, Danny also works as a performance nutritionist to professional MMA fighters, professional boxers and competitive powerlifters. He...
2017-11-0756 min