Episode 340: Hybrid Training and Meathead Cardio with Bryan Boorstein

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by award-winning journalist and food nerd David Page, the guy who created Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. We get into the wild evolution of American cuisine, the social role of food, and how to balance eating what you love with not tanking your health.David also shares his personal story with diabetes and weight loss, plus some practical cooking tips you can actually use. It’s part history lesson, part food therapy, and a whole lot of fun. Don’t forget to check out the sponsors and subscribe to my free daily newsletter for nerdy nuggets on nutrition, training, and metabolism—plus a free gift just for signing up.Sponsors:Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13PNOE - tell them Dr Mike T sent ya: https://pnoe.comKillswitch for sleep: https://www.switchsupplements.com/DRMIKE use code DRMIKE to save $$Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:04:34 The Evolution of Chinese and Italian Cuisine in America08:50 The Impact of Post-WWII Era on American Food Culture15:19 Cooking Tips and Healthy Eating Strategies24:08 Balancing Indulgence and Healthy Eating25:16 A Personal Journey to Weight Loss26:05 The Role of Medical Professionals in Managing Diabetes27:14 Effective Diet Plans and Medications28:21 Maintaining Weight Loss and Counting Calories30:08 Exercise and Personal Fitness Routines33:52 The Story Behind Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives36:33 The Challenges and Rewards of the Restaurant Industry39:37 Exploring Regional Barbecue Styles41:51 Launching a Culinary Podcast46:26 Closing Remarks and Podcast InformationConnect with David: Culinary Characters Unlocked: https://culinarycharactersunlocked.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

On this week’s Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with Angelo Keely, co-founder of Kion, to geek out on all things essential amino acids (EAAs). We’ll dig into the nitty-gritty science and—more importantly—what that means for you in the real world.Want to pack on more muscle? Drop some fat without feeling wrecked? Stay strong and sharp as the years tick by? EAAs can help—if you know how to use them. We’ll break down why they’re not just “protein lite,” how they work differently than your standard whey shake, and the smartest ways to add them into your nutrition strategy.If you care about muscle, performance, or aging like a badass, this one’s worth a listen.Sponsors:Kion EAAs: https://www.getkion.com/collections/drmikeAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:01:30 – Meeting Angelo Keely at ISSN03:00 – Essential Amino Acids: What Are They?06:00 – Protein vs. EAAs vs. BCAAs09:30 – The Science of Protein Synthesis13:00 – Muscle Gain, Body Composition, and Aging17:00 – EAAs for Fat Loss and Caloric Restriction21:00 – Research on EAAs and Muscle Preservation25:00 – Supplement Quality: What to Look For28:00 – How to Use EAAs: Dosing and Timing32:00 – EAAs for Older Adults and Special Populations36:00 – Taste, Formulation, and Product Differences40:00 – Practical Tips for Athletes and Everyday Use44:00 – Creatine vs. EAAs: Which to Choose?47:00 – Real-World Experiences and Anecdotes50:00 – Q&A and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 291: Anabolic Strategies and Nutrition Tips to Maximize Muscle Growth & Health with Dr David ChurchYouTube: https://youtu.be/VudpMeB_33w Episode 274: How Muscle Fibers Influence Metabolism: Insights from Nathan SerranoYouTube: https://youtu.be/Ul2TOiodgaoConnect with Angelo:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelokeelyKion: https://www.getkion.comGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this week’s Flex Diet Podcast, I sit down with fitness expert Bryan Boorstein to dig into the idea of “Meathead Cardio.” Brian has been in the lifting world for years, but over time, he began adding more cardio into his routine—and not only did it stick, it actually improved his performance and health. We talk about why hybrid training isn’t the enemy of muscle, how to balance lifting and cardio without wrecking recovery, and the strategies Brian used to hold onto his muscle while ramping up his endurance work. He also shares his experience training for and excelling in endurance events, and how this shift has changed his overall well-being. We wrap up with some practical advice on how you can fold more cardio into your training without sacrificing strength, plus a look ahead at where training and tech might collide in the future. Sponsors:Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13PNOE - tell them Dr Mike T sent ya: https://pnoe.comKillswitch for sleep: https://www.switchsupplements.com/DRMIKE use code DRMIKE to save $$Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:04:25 Brian's Hybrid Training Journey04:59 Balancing Lifting and Cardio08:49 Training Adjustments and Experiments14:16 Low Volume Training and Maintenance34:16 Cardio's Impact on Aesthetics and Well-being40:24 Brian's Cardio Training Regimen44:50 Significant Improvements in Rowing Performance45:32 Balancing Training and Recovery45:56 Adapting Training for Seasonal Changes47:15 Experimenting with Different Workout Routines48:25 Incorporating Cardio and Flexibility49:31 The Importance of Diverse Physical Activities51:41 Cardiovascular Training Setup55:49 The Role of Technology in Training01:05:16 Running and Its Impact on Training01:09:21 Zone Two Training and Recovery01:14:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 220: Lessons in Muscle Size From Training One Arm for Weeks – an interview with Bryan Boorstein, https://youtu.be/xKpqpybuTE8 Episode 252: Mastering Heart Health: A Deep Dive into Preventive Cardiology with Dr. Michael Twyman, https://youtu.be/hpdMnJSZMf8Connect with Bryan:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bryanboorsteinWebsite: https://evolvedtrainingsystems.comGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I’m Dr. Mike T Nelson, and today I’ve got a great conversation lined up with Coach Troy Beauregard from Canada. We dig into one of my favorite rabbit holes: performance tracking for athletes.We cover why it’s so important to keep tabs on what’s happening in the gym and how you don’t need super-fancy gear to start collecting meaningful data. Of course, we also geek out on the fun toys, from simple tools to cutting-edge tech and even some AI applications that are creeping into sports science.Troy shares insights on hockey-specific acceleration testing, what load monitoring looks like in basketball, and how recovery programs can use force plates and other equipment to really dial things in. The big theme? How modern technology can help athletes perform better and recover smarter—without frying their nervous system in the process.If you’re into training, tech, and finding smarter ways to help athletes (or yourself) adapt and recover, you’re going to love this one.Sponsors:Beyond Power Voltra 1: https://www.beyond-power.com/michael13PNOE - tell them Dr Mike T sent ya: https://pnoe.comKillswitch for sleep: https://www.switchsupplements.com/DRMIKE use code DRMIKE to save $$Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:07:36 In-Game Monitoring and Performance Testing15:35 Real-World Applications and Case Studies22:13 Challenges in Assessing Hockey Players' Performance23:23 Using Moxie Monitors for On-Ice Data Collection23:56 Gender Differences in SMO2 Utilization26:21 Correlation Between Drive Index and Acceleration27:17 Importance of Accurate Performance Metrics29:05 The Role of Cognitive Skills in Athletic Performance41:58 Complexity in Modern Sports45:46 Moxie Testing and Strength Correlation48:03 Understanding Wattage and Oxygen Utilization in Sports Science48:22 Correlation Between Sprint Performance and Power Output48:59 The Importance of Strength and Power in Athletic Training51:19 Experimenting with Strength and Power Training in Hockey54:24 Innovative Training Devices and Technology55:41 Affordable Alternatives for High-Tech Training59:36 The Role of AI and Data Analysis in Sports01:01:54 Closing Thoughts and Future Episodes Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 311: Maximizing Athletic Performance with Neurology: Insights from Dr. Dylan Seeley; https://youtu.be/bnuYQ-GJ6toEpisode 308: The Science of Performance: An In-Depth Conversation with Dr James LaValle; https://youtu.be/rmirgNof5ykConnect with Troy:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/troybeauregard/Website: https://vo2peak.ca/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

Join me on The Flex Diet Podcast as I break down the iconic 1996 Tabata study that’s been hyped for its fat-burning benefits. Tabata training has become a fitness staple, but is it really all it’s cracked up to be?I’ll uncover the myths, dive into the science, and explain why true Tabata isn’t exactly beginner-friendly. Learn about its real effects on body composition and how you can modify it for better results.Plus, I’ll give you the lowdown on Flexible Meathead Cardio: Level 2 that closes for enrollment at midnight on Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Tune in for a no-BS look at one of the most talked-about training protocols in fitness.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comBeyond Power Voltra 1: https://miket.me/voltra1Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:00:19 Overview of Tabata Training01:08 Pros and Cons of Tabata Training03:25 Tabata Training Myths05:52 Original Tabata Study Breakdown15:49 Practical Applications and Modifications17:30 Conclusion and Additional InformationFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy: Episode 327: Flexible Meathead Cardio: Barbell Shrugged Rebroadcast with Dr Mike T Nelson, https://youtu.be/UAJi7RNGf3MGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I chat with Dr. Mike Roberts, a full professor at Auburn University and head of the Nutri Bolt Applied and Molecular Physiology Lab. Mike’s one of the sharpest minds in muscle science, and we go deep into the nitty-gritty of hypertrophy, including everything from rodent studies to human trials to the molecular pathways that drive muscle growth.We get into some serious geekery: ribosome biogenesis, muscle stem cells, the extracellular matrix — yeah, all the stuff happening behind the scenes when you train. Mike also shares his take on how HIIT and consistent resistance training impact muscle adaptation, and we riff on where nutrition fits into the equation.If you're into the science of muscle or you're a coach looking to better understand the mechanisms behind hypertrophy, you’ll dig this one. Tons of actionable nuggets and some fascinating research.Check it out!Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comBeyond Power Voltra 1: https://miket.me/voltra1Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:05:53 Dr. Mike Roberts' Academic Journey07:21 Research Focus: Muscle Physiology and Aging21:04 Innovative Research Projects and Findings43:03 Exploring Pyro Sequencing and Methylation45:17 Genetic Potential and Resistance Training46:16 Extreme Responders and Genetic Research47:21 Conference on Response Heterogeneity50:16 Ribosome Biogenesis and Muscle Stem Cells54:47 Extracellular Matrix and Hypertrophy01:03:04 Eccentric Training and Muscle Growth01:07:17 Practical Tips for Muscle Hypertrophy01:16:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 161: Muscle hypertrophy, exercise selection, and nutrient timing, an interview with Dr Chester Soko - https://youtu.be/0snSfWTuVYQ Episode 328: Grit Gains: Building Mental Toughness and Resilience in Training with Ben Mayfield Smith - https://youtu.be/Kg77mu1MAIkConnect with Mike:X: https://x.com/DrMikeRobertsGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I break down how to train your cardio without wrecking your strength gains. We’re digging into the real roles of your aerobic and anaerobic systems—why most lifters skip the boring base work, and why that’s a big mistake if you want better performance and recovery.I also share a sneak peek at the upcoming Flexible Meathead Cardio Level 2 course, which covers high-intensity interval training (HIIT), anaerobic power, and how to program it all without turning your training into a dumpster fire.Whether you're a meathead trying to breathe between sets or just want to recover faster and hit harder—this one's for you.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comTo get on my Fitness Insider Newsletter and get a free protocol to amp up your aerobic gainZ in only 6 minutes, check this out: https://flex-diet.kit.com/3ac7e0c829Available now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:00:57 Introduction to Cardio for Meatheads01:14 Flexible Meathead Cardio Level Two03:31 Importance of Aerobic Base for Anaerobic Training08:24 Understanding Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Systems10:44 The Role of Lactate and Hydrogen Ions16:36 Course Details and Enrollment Information18:04 Final Thoughts and EncouragementGet In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

In this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by the always-interesting Levi Earl, who's tuning in all the way from Finland, to nerd out on all things aerobic training, grip strength, and how to make your meathead conditioning actually work for you, not against you.We dive into why strength athletes need better aerobic systems (no, it’s not just for skinny endurance types), how mountain training builds freakish capacity, and why grip training is way more than just farmer’s carries until your soul leaves your body.We also delve into sport-specific gems, such as what wrestlers, hockey players, and other power athletes can glean from these methods to enhance their performance without tiring out.Whether you’re a high-level athlete or want to stop sucking wind between sets, you’ll walk away with some highly usable intel.Give it a listen—grab your notebook, and consider bringing a pulse oximeter if you're feeling particularly curious.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:05:22 Conversation with Levi Earl Begins05:30 Grip Training Insights and Techniques08:51 Aerobic System Benefits for Grip Athletes10:12 Training Methods and Recovery11:53 Grip Training Tools and Techniques21:34 Aerobic Conditioning for Lifters32:01 Maintaining Aerobic Base During Sports Season39:30 The College System and Athlete Development39:37 Isometric Training in Greco Style Wrestling40:01 Mountain Training: Benefits and Challenges41:12 Altitude Training: Science and Practical Insights43:53 Mental and Physical Benefits of Mountain Training47:26 High Altitude Training for Different Sports52:38 Hypoxic Training and Its Applications54:53 Weight Cutting and Altitude Training01:01:38 Aerobic Training and Cognitive Benefits01:10:00 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFlex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 177: Training Principles from Gonzo Grip Strength with Adam Glass and Dr Mike T Nelson - https://youtu.be/u7659KqTKWQ Episode 264: Finding Your Aerobic Sweet Spot for Peak Health with Dr Phil Batterson - https://youtu.be/AbX9VyB8DscConnect with Levi:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leviearl/Website: https://www.leviearl.com/About Levi:Levi Earl is an Olympic-level Strength & Performance Coach based in Finland. With over a decade of experience coaching elite athletes in wrestling, hockey, and combat sports, he’s helped produce world champions, Olympians, and national-level talent across Europe. Known for his no-fluff, results-driven coaching style, Levi blends strength training, sports nutrition, and mindset development into a system built for real performance - on and off the field.Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

On this episode of the Flex Diet Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Antonella Schwarz to geek out over her recent study on myo-reps, which she presented at the International Society of Sports Nutrition. We break down what myo-reps are, where the concept came from, and how they stack up against more traditional hypertrophy protocols.We also dive into some broader topics, including muscle growth principles, physical therapy applications, injury recovery strategies, and how to train efficiently when time is tight. Dr. Schwarz shares how she uses myo-reps in her own training and why performance-based goals are such a big deal. Plus, she gives us a sneak peek at her upcoming researchIf you’re a coach, trainer, or just a curious nerd like me, you’ll get a ton out of this one. Enjoy!Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:04:25 Discussion on Myo Reps Study06:10 Defining Myo Reps and Its Origins08:41 Mechanisms and Benefits of Myo Reps12:34 Strength vs. Hypertrophy Training15:52 Challenges in Hypertrophy Research28:10 Study Design and Findings39:16 Future Research and Personal Training Insights40:36 Respect for Bodybuilding and Hypertrophy Training41:41 Current Training and Goals43:02 Balancing Aerobic and Strength Training45:03 Debunking Fitness Myths50:47 Journey into Sports Science and Academia53:27 Challenges in Sports Medicine Practices01:04:18 Importance of Performance Goals01:10:32 Upcoming Projects and Research01:13:24 Podcast Conclusion and Announcements Episode Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 161: Muscle hypertrophy, exercise selection, and nutrient timing, an interview with Dr Chester Soko - https://youtu.be/0snSfWTuVYQEpisode 149: Strength, Hypertrophy and Training Research Update from the REC Conference by Discover Strength 2022 - https://youtu.be/szaHgTw8HZ8Connect with Dr Schwarz:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.antonella.schwarz/The Rehabilitation Lab: https://www.barry.edu/en/academics/health-sciences/sport-and-exercise-sciences-programs/rehabilitation-lab/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us

Welcome back to the Flex Diet Podcast. I’m Dr. Mike T. Nelson, and in this episode, I’m joined by the legendary Coach Cal Dietz from the University of Minnesota. This was originally a bonus call for the Phasic 2 book, but it was packed with so much gold, I had to bring it to the podcast.We dig into a wide range of performance topics, including everything from the surprising benefits of using water bags in training to how footwear can affect pain and mechanics. Cal and I also discuss strategies for building muscle and improving body composition, including phasic loading for powerlifters, the nuances of cluster training, and how to train the aerobic system without compromising recovery.We even touch on some sport-specific advice, like adjusting training for cross-country athletes and the critical distinction between EU stress and distress in programming. Tons of actionable takeaways here for coaches, athletes, and curious nerds alike.Sponsors:Tecton Life Ketone drink! https://tectonlife.com/ DRMIKE to save 20%LMNT electrolyte drink mix: miketnelsonlmnt.comAvailable now:Grab a copy of the Triphasic Training II book I co-wrote with Cal Deitz here.Episode Chapters:03:16 Importance of Aerobic Training04:06 Electrolytes and Ketones Recommendations05:17 Q&A with Coach Cal Dietz Begins06:20 Water Bag Training Insights07:12 Practical Applications and Case Studies15:29 Advanced Training Techniques and Tools21:20 Rehabilitation and Pain Management24:17 Footwear and Gait Patterns26:47 Combining Drills for Enhanced Performance31:33 Addressing Pain and Compensation Patterns33:26 Resetting the Pain Signal34:04 Identifying Movement Compensations35:48 Starting Point for New Athletes39:07 Triphasic Loading for Powerlifters48:38 High Velocity Potentiation for Swimmers50:26 Modifications for Cross Country Runners55:40 Final Thoughts and Q&A59:42 Podcast Conclusion and Acknowledgements Flex Diet Podcast Episodes You May Enjoy:Episode 301: Unlocking Elite Athletic Development with Triphasic Training 2 with Coach Cal Dietz: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNzuXHhdiU0 Episode 277: Listener Questions with Dr Mike T Nelson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQf1ir2TxDwConnect with Cal:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triphasic_training/Website: https://www.xlathlete.com/Get In Touch with Dr Mike:Instagram: DrmiketnelsonYouTube: @flexdietcertEmail: Miketnelson.com/contact-us