In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast, we delve into the concept of dogma within the fitness industry, exploring its origins, implications, and the challenges it presents to critical thinking and scientific inquiry.
We discuss the dichotomy between science-based and anti-optimal approaches, the importance of education in fostering nuanced understanding, and the impact of social media on belief systems.
We also highlight the need for fitness professionals to navigate these complexities thoughtfully and to prioritize personal growth over rigid adherence to dogmatic beliefs.
Chapters00:00 Understanding Dogma in the Fitness Industry
19:29 The Science vs. Anti-Optimal Debate
25:32 Defining Science and Its Misinterpretations
30:56 The Importance of Education in Fitness
34:42 Finding Utility in Diverse Training Methods
36:44 Creating Personal Systems for Utility
38:09 Meal Prep and Consistency in Nutrition
40:10 The Role of Rigid Systems in Learning
42:05 The Responsibility of Educators in Communication
43:33 Navigating Nuance in Professional Development
45:19 The Ethics of Language in Education
47:13 The Pressure of Authority and Financial Stability
49:02 The Impact of Social Media on Perception
50:53 Values and Integrity in Professional Practice
52:37 The Conflict of Values in Content Creation
54:31 The Importance of Authentic Relationships
56:20 Conscious Consumption of Content
58:06 Curating Your Online Environment
01:00:06 Dopamine Detoxing and Emotional Well-being
01:03:08 Choosing Growth Over Being Right
In this episode of The Exercise Mechanic Podcast, Etienne and Ryan sit down with ultra-endurance athlete and Guinness World Record holder Morgan McKay. From competing in World’s Toughest Mudder to conquering the Spartan Ultra in Iceland and setting a record for the fastest 10K carrying 100 lbs, Morgan’s story is one of resilience, mindset, and sheer mental toughness.
You’ll hear how Morgan went from a self-described “terrible cross-country runner” to one of the top names in obstacle course racing. She opens up about balancing motherhood, marriage, and training, and why community, teamwork, and planning have been keys to her success.
Whether you’re an endurance athlete, a fitness coach, or just someone fascinated by what it takes to push through the “pain cave,” this conversation will leave you inspired.
👉 If you enjoy the episode, be sure to share it with a friend, tag us on Instagram, and leave a review!
Chapters
00:00 – Kicking things off & intro to Morgan01:30 – The DNF at World’s Toughest Mudder & bouncing back to win in Iceland04:00 – What these 24-hour obstacle events actually look like07:30 – Facing fear: electrocution, cliff jumps & why she does it10:30 – The psychology of endurance athletes & her early struggles13:00 – The “mental switch” that changed everything16:30 – Balancing family, training, and being a mom22:00 – Setting an example for kids & building family fitness culture29:30 – Community, BeFit, and building teams for Spartan races34:00 – Loving the process vs. chasing the event42:00 – Why strength training sets her apart in endurance sports46:00 – Preparing for a 100K on short notice48:00 – Inside the “pain cave” & mental tricks to keep moving53:00 – Her Guinness World Record: fastest 10K with 100 lbs59:00 – Fueling strategies & the art of “endurance eating”01:05:00 – Rapid fire questions (books, food, lifts, hard truths for trainers)01:12:00 – Reflections on sales, business, and growth as a coach
In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic podcast, the team discussed how to effectively structure diet plans tailored to clients' needs and goals.
The conversation covers various strategies, including harm reduction, pre-framing discomfort, and the significance of predictive versus reactive modelling in diet coaching. We also delve into macronutrient goals, tracking progress through lead and lag metrics, and the role of meal timing in performance.
If you're looking to improve your nutritional consulting, this isn't an episode to miss!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Diet Planning
02:41 Needs Analysis and Client Understanding
05:28 Food Journals and Initial Assessments
08:28 Managing Expectations and Client Priorities
10:57 Harm Reduction Strategies
13:49 Pre-framing Discomfort in Dieting
16:36 Predictive vs. Reactive Modeling in Dieting
19:26 Establishing Protein and Macronutrient Goals
22:13 Adjusting for Body Composition and Health
24:50 Lead and Lag Metrics for Progress Tracking
27:47 Rate of Loss and Client Coaching
30:41 Meal Timing and Nutrient Timing
33:11 Strategies for Lifestyle Clients
35:55 Intra-workout Nutrition and Performance
38:51 Positive Language in Client Communication
In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic, Liz Brody discusses the importance of in-person training for fitness coaches, debunks common nutrition myths, and shares insights on the significance of client-centric communication.
Liz emphasizes the need for continuous education and the importance of mental health in coaching relationships, while also addressing the misconception of needing a niche to succeed in the fitness industry.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of In-Person Training
07:36 Debunking Training Myths
10:36 The Evolution of the Bikini Division
20:55 Post-Show Experiences and Recovery
28:49 The Importance of a Well-Structured Prep Timeline
37:25 Navigating Recovery Diets Post-Competition
48:37 Effective Communication in Coaching
57:13 Identifying Key Focus Areas in Training
01:01:28 The Importance of Delivery in Coaching
01:02:20 Rapid Fire Questions: Getting to Know Liz
01:05:34 Personal Insights: Food Preferences and Values
01:06:36 Proudest Moments and Influences
01:08:56 The Niche Debate in Coaching
01:11:48 Future Goals in Bodybuilding and Coaching
In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic Podcast, the team reconnects after a summer break to share personal updates, including Brett's experience competing in an Olympic length race, Ryan's unique off-season training, and Etienne's recent move back to Canada. They delve into discussions about body image, cultural observations on body size, and the importance of acknowledging aesthetic goals. The episode also highlights new initiatives within the Exercise Mechanic, including an ambassador program and upcoming study groups for fitness professionals in Ottawa.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back and Summer Updates
01:07 Brett's Triathlon Experience
03:18 Ryan's Off-Season Reflections
06:35 Bodybuilding Evolution: First vs. Second Bodybuilding
10:17 Mental Health and Training Progress
12:09 Food Relationships in Bodybuilding
15:11 Professional Developments and Community Initiatives
17:46 Bodybuilding Trends and Aesthetic Goals
20:36 Body Positivity and Aesthetic Desires
25:28 Personal Life Updates: Moving Back to Canada
27:16 Cultural Reflections on Body Image
30:11 The Societal Impact of Health and Obesity
31:50 Infrastructure and Health: A Broader Perspective
34:05 The Role of Capitalism in Health Trends
35:31 Personal Experiences in Ultra Trail Running
40:58 Adventures in Switzerland: Hut to Hut Hiking
50:54 New Initiatives in Fitness Education
Are traditional assessments overrated and when / how should we use them in sales and in training? Listen to learn all about how to leverage assessments in your personal training practice.
Chapters
01:01 Are Assessments Overrated?
02:35 The Value of Daily Assessments
04:59 Contextual Assessments in Athletic Training
09:14 Pro Assessments vs. Traditional Assessments
12:39 Assessments as Conversations
15:05 Client-Centric Assessment Approaches
17:37 The Importance of Data Collection
20:28 Underrated Assessments and Their Utility
24:58 Creating a Comprehensive Assessment Protocol
27:02 Facilitating Client Conversations
29:01 The Role of Gut Health in Assessments
32:11 Joint Function Assessments
35:01 Navigating Client Health Concerns
40:00 Top Mistakes New Trainers Make
In this episode, we discuss how to effectively coach clients through life's challenges, focusing on the importance of understanding psychological and emotional barriers, the significance of accountability in the trainer-client relationship, and strategies for navigating vacations and lifestyle changes.
We hope you enjoy the show.
Join us for a dynamic Q&A session on "The Exercise Mechanic".
From the age-old debate of LeBron vs. MJ to the stigmas surrounding GLP-1 medications, and even the intricacies of fascia health, this episode is packed with insights.
Submit your questions directly to the TEM team on our Instagram page!
IG: @theexercisemechanic
In this conversation, Yannick Schulz highlights the importance of load management, assessment, and building buy-in for foundational work in both training and rehabilitation settings. The discussion also covers the importance of hip internal rotation and the integration of clinical and training perspectives to enhance performance and prevent injury. He also discusses the complexities of working with bodybuilders, particularly the challenges posed by hypertrophy and mobility.
Yannick also shares his personal journey into chiropractic care, addressing common misconceptions about the profession and highlighting the evolution of chiropractic practices towards a more holistic approach.
Chapters
00:00 The Nature of Exercises: Good vs. Bad
03:07 Load Management and Individual Capacity
06:10 Re-Exposure and Graded Exposure in Training
09:01 The Importance of Assessment in Training
11:52 Building Buy-In for Foundational Work
14:59 Common Deficits: Hip Internal Rotation
17:57 The Impact of Internal Rotation on Lifting
20:59 Integrating Clinical and Training Perspectives
24:07 Common Patterns in Strength Athletes
28:20 The Challenge of Hypertrophy and Mobility
30:36 Understanding Bodybuilder Injuries
32:07 The Need for Manual Therapy in Bodybuilders
34:50 Assessing Manual Therapy Techniques
38:10 Creating Stability in the Shoulder Joint
42:41 Position-Specific Rehabilitation Strategies
45:22 Empowering Patients Through Movement
49:03 The Role of Context in Treatment
52:56 Navigating Social Media and Education
58:30 Building a Business Through Referrals
59:12 Building Trust with Fitness Professionals
01:02:45 The Importance of Intellectual Humility in Trainers
01:05:25 Yannick's Journey into Chiropractic Care
01:08:18 Misconceptions About Chiropractic Care
01:12:10 The Evolution of Chiropractic Practices
01:13:50 Rapid Fire Questions with Yannick
In this episode, the team discusses how to reframe sales as problem-solving, the importance of building confidence, and the role of teaching in fostering client relationships.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Sales Anxiety in Training
02:43 Reframing Sales as Problem Solving
05:34 Building Confidence in Sales Skills
08:48 The Importance of Teaching in Sales
11:42 Creating a Therapeutic Alliance with Clients
14:38 The Power of Honesty and Transparency
17:48 Avoiding Fear Mongering in Sales
20:49 The Role of Testimonials and Referrals
23:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways
In this episode Lauren Neal, the Director of Personal Training at the Adelaide Club, shares her journey from fitness enthusiast to Director of Personal Training. She discusses the unique culture of the Adelaide Club, emphasizing the importance of community and the necessity of building relationships for long-term sustainable growth. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of personal trainers, the impact of online coaching, the need for continuous education in the fitness industry, and much more.
🚀 If you'd like to get in contact with Lauren, you can email her at: lauren@adelaideclub.com
🚀 To learn more about the Adelaide Club, visit www.Adelaideclub.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lauren Neal and the Adelaide Club
02:45 Lauren's Personal Training Journey
05:38 Transitioning from Fitness to Management
08:44 The Unique Culture of the Adelaide Club
11:43 Building Relationships in Personal Training
14:40 Key Traits for a Successful Personal Training Team
17:41 Identifying Gaps in Trainer Experience
20:38 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Trainers
23:44 The Impact of COVID on Personal Training
26:40 The Rise of Online Coaching
29:49 Sales and Relationship Building in Personal Training
33:06 Navigating Trainer Side Hustles
35:56 Identifying the Right Trainer
38:02 Adapting to Economic Changes
40:55 The Importance of Service in Training
44:12 Evolving Role of Personal Trainers
48:14 Enhancing Fitness Education
54:56 Rapid Fire Questions with Lauren
Why should endurance athletes care about strength training?
In this episode, we share lessons from the gym, the classroom, and the conference floor. From injury prevention to periodization, running shoes to race prep—we cover how to lift without compromising your mileage. Whether you're coaching runners or training for your next big race, this one's packed with practical takeaways.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Team Updates
02:49 Refining Course Content and Teaching Dynamics
05:59 Instructor vs. Student Perspectives on Course Quality
08:58 Adapting to Student Needs in Training Courses
11:50 Presentations at Conferences and Learning Experiences
14:55 The Importance of Simplifying Complex Concepts
17:48 Vulnerability in Teaching and Presenting
20:46 Experiences at the Real Coaches Summit
24:03 Transitioning to Strength Training for Endurance Athletes
35:08 The Role of Gear in Performance
38:41 Strength Training for Endurance Athletes
44:58 Injury Prevention and Management in Runners
53:00 The Debate on Footwear: Minimalist vs. Supportive Shoes
01:00:49 Integrating Strength Training with Running Programs
01:11:02 Training Adaptations: In-Season vs. Off-Season
01:18:14 Race Preparation: Building the Engine
01:24:14 Specificity in Training: Tailoring to Events
01:30:05 Fatigue Management: Balancing Multiple Sports
01:33:44 Undulating Periodization: Optimizing Training Intensity
In this episode, we explore the differences between bodybuilding and other sports, the importance of effort and training intensity, and how to structure programs to manage fatigue and recovery.
The conversation also touches on the balance between work and personal goals, emphasizing the coexistence of hard work and relaxation in achieving fulfillment in life and training.
Chapters
01:42 Training Approaches: Resistance vs. Endurance
04:50 Key Principles of Program Design
12:45 Effort and Training Intensity
19:34 Structuring Training Splits
24:54 Recognizing Overtraining and Recovery
30:19 The Importance of Contrast in Training
32:59 The Importance of Self-Audit in Training
35:55 Coaching vs. Self-Coaching: Finding the Right Balance
39:00 Exercise Selection: Tailoring to Individual Needs
47:44 Managing Fatigue and Recovery in Diverse Training
54:28 Balancing Professional and Personal Goals
01:00:05 The Coexistence of Hard Work and Relaxation
In this episode, our guest Olivia Oneid, explores her journey in the fitness industry, her coaching philosophy, and the importance of empowerment in women's fitness.
Olivia shares her experiences as an athlete, the significance of training intensity, and the challenges of preparing for bodybuilding competitions.
The discussion also delves into the complexities of coaching female athletes, particularly in relation to body composition, health, and performance. They discuss the importance of understanding the differences between stage leanness and sustainable health, the unique physiological considerations when coaching women, and the impact of the menstrual cycle on training. The conversation also highlights the significance of functional health, the risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs, and the necessity of maintaining fundamental training and nutrition practices for optimal results.
Olivia also shares her journey of embracing authenticity and strength, navigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome, and the profound impact bodybuilding has had on her life.
We hope you enjoy this episode with Olivia Oneid.
Chapters
01:54 Empowerment and Identity in Coaching
04:01 Olivia's Athletic Journey
06:56 The Importance of Training Intensity
10:05 Coaching Strategies for Client Success
14:10 Setting Expectations with Clients
18:01 The Path to Professional Bodybuilding
21:03 Behaviors of a Pro Bodybuilder
24:00 Managing Prep Challenges
30:02 Final Thoughts on Bodybuilding and Coaching
34:02 Challenging Perceptions of Health and Body Composition
38:57 Coaching Female Athletes: Unique Considerations
44:03 Managing Training Around the Menstrual Cycle
50:02 Functional Health and Hormonal Issues in Female Athletes
55:50 Navigating Performance-Enhancing Drugs for Women
01:02:10 The Importance of Fundamentals in Training and Nutrition
01:11:53 Embracing Authenticity and Strength
01:15:01 Navigating Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
01:17:02 The Impact of Bodybuilding on Life
01:19:31 Feeling Safe and Vulnerable in Society
01:25:18 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal Reflections
In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic Podcast, Tim Walsh addresses common misconceptions about fitness professionals, emphasizes the importance of empathy and trust in coaching, and reflects on the significance of paying it forward in the fitness community. Tim also shares his personal journey through a hip replacement and the rehabilitation process, highlighting the role of communication and genuine care in coaching relationships.
The discussion also covers the nutritional deficiencies commonly found in strength athletes and the significance of proper dosing of vitamins and minerals for optimal performance and recovery.
In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of podcasting, personal training, and the fitness industry. We highlight the significance of teamwork, the challenges of marketing oneself, and the potential threats to the fitness industry due to economic factors.
Chapters
00:00 The Essence of Podcasting: Fun and Connection
10:00 Building a Team: The Power of Collaboration
16:55 Navigating the Personal Training Landscape
37:05 Threats to the Fitness Industry: Economic Realities
39:02 Economic Uncertainty and Health Investment
43:36 Impact of Social Media on the Fitness Industry
45:40 Intellectual Tribalism in Fitness
56:14 Training Adaptations and Fatigue Management
01:06:12 Balancing Basics and Optimal Training
In this episode, Aram Gregorian discuss the Real Coaches Summit, emphasizing the importance of practical coaching, nutrition, and training.
Aram shares insights on simplifying nutrition and training for clients, the necessity of tracking progress, and the significance of mental health in coaching.
We explore how life experiences shape coaching styles and the importance of having a strong motivation or 'why' behind fitness goals. The conversation highlights the need for coaches to be available and relatable, fostering a supportive environment for clients. In this conversation, Aram discusses the complexities of motivation, the importance of understanding personal neglect in behavior change, and the need for coaches to accept their current reality while scaling their expectations. He emphasizes the pitfalls new coaches often face, particularly the rush to scale their businesses without mastering their craft. The discussion also touches on the significance of client fulfillment over rapid growth, the philosophical aspects of coaching, and the importance of being present and accepting one's current state.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:08 The Real Coaches Summit: A Passion Project
05:12 Nutrition and Training: Simplifying the Complex
11:04 Feeding Body Composition vs. Activity
16:59 The Importance of Tracking and Accountability
26:37 Mental Health and Coaching: A Necessary Balance
33:52 Fear and Action: Overcoming Psychological Barriers
37:50 Confronting Mortality and Embracing Life
39:48 The Role of Life Experience in Coaching
44:03 Understanding Client Motivations and Barriers
51:56 The Importance of a Strong 'Why' in Coaching
59:43 Fuel Sources for Motivation and Sustainable Change
01:06:52 Pitfalls for Coaches: Scaling and Client Retention
01:17:30 The Impact of Stitch Content
01:18:57 Anecdotal Evidence vs. Scientific Research
01:20:18 Navigating Criticism and Misunderstandings
01:21:00 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Favorites
01:24:41 Hard Truths for Personal Trainers
01:27:51 Philosophy and Human Understanding
01:31:35 Event Planning and Community Building
In this episode of The Exercise Mechanic, hosts Etienne Asselin, Brett Patterson, and Ryan Taylor explore the profound impact of setting ambitious goals and the lessons learned through endurance training and personal challenges. They discuss the importance of building confidence, navigating failure, and the relationship between identity and hard work. The conversation also touches on the authenticity of social media, the balance of seeking help, and the reflections on the journey of hard work, emphasizing that the process is as valuable as the outcome.
Chapters
00:00 The Value of Setting Big Goals
02:45 Lessons from Triathlon Preparation
04:36 The Journey of Progress and Plateaus
07:12 Building Confidence Through Difficult Challenges
09:35 Identity and the Impact of Habits
12:23 The Iron as a Metaphor for Life
16:55 The Importance of Stacking Wins
20:56 Life Lessons from Sports
25:08 Navigating Failure and Resilience
28:56 Reflections on Personal Growth Through Sport
33:54 The Essence of Authentic Influence
35:07 Navigating Social Media Pressure
39:14 The Challenge of Authenticity in Content Creation
42:55 Finding Balance: Playing the Game vs. Being True
47:55 The Importance of Adaptability and Learning
53:10 Managing Expectations in the Journey
58:53 The Value of Hard Work and Resourcefulness
In this conversation, Dean St. Mart delves into the intricate relationship between mitochondria, oxidative stress, and health.
We explore the role of methylene blue in enhancing mitochondrial efficiency, the implications of oxidative stress on overall health, and the importance of lifestyle and nutritional interventions in supporting mitochondrial function. The discussion also touches on various compounds that can aid mitochondrial health and the necessity of addressing root causes of dysfunction. Dean St Mart also discusses the intricate relationship between nutrition, detoxification, and overall health. He emphasizes the importance of sleep, protein intake, and mitochondrial function in hormone production. We also discuss the role of magnesium in health, the nuances of peptide supplementation, and the dangers associated with certain performance enhancers like DNP and Equipoise. Lastly, the conversation also delves into the significance of gut health and the complexities of gluten sensitivity and celiac disease, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of these topics.
This episode is a dense one! Grab your notebooks!
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Mitochondrial Health and Methylene Blue
08:45 Understanding Oxidative Stress and Its Implications
17:45 The Role of SLU PP332 in Mitochondrial Efficiency
34:03 Practical Applications of Mitochondrial Compounds in Bodybuilding
41:40 Understanding Mitochondrial Function and Compounds
51:55 The Role of Nutrition in Mitochondrial Health
58:37 Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Oxidative Stress
01:04:13 The Importance of Magnesium in Health
01:18:35 Exploring Underrated and Overrated Peptides
01:19:48 Understanding DNP and Its Risks
01:22:38 The Controversy of Equipoise
01:24:35 Peptides and Their Effectiveness
01:25:59 The Misconception of Insulin in Bodybuilding
01:29:25 Gut Health and Nutrient Absorption
01:35:30 Autoimmunity and Food Sensitivities
01:41:39 The Journey of Continuous Learning
Buckle up your brains and grab your notepad. This episode has the potential of blowing your mind wide open!
In this episode of the Exercise Mechanic Podcast, Dr. Dean St. Mart discusses the complexities of performance enhancing drugs (PEDs), their categories, and the context-specific nature of their use in various sports. He emphasizes the importance of understanding genetics, epigenetics, and the risks associated with PEDs, including the necessity of regular blood work to monitor health. The conversation also touches on the Enhanced Games, a new approach to sports that allows for the use of PEDs under controlled conditions, and the ethical considerations surrounding this shift. Dean shares insights on how to approach performance enhancement responsibly, focusing on the interplay between training, nutrition, and drug use, while also addressing the misconceptions and societal implications of PEDs.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context Setting
01:37 Understanding Performance Enhancing Drugs (PEDs)
10:24 The Ethics and Future of Enhanced Sports
20:38 Defining Health and Risk in Performance Enhancement
31:16 Guidance for First-Time Users of PEDs
47:17 The Synergy of Training, Diet, and Performance Enhancers
50:16 Understanding Recovery and Contest Prep
52:39 The Importance of Mitochondrial Efficiency
56:27 Intentional Lifting and Exercise Selection
01:00:02 The Role of Blood Work in Performance Enhancement
01:04:39 Key Health Metrics for Athletes
01:09:59 Iron Metabolism and Oxidative Stress
01:12:41 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights