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In this episode, Dr Luke Del Vecchio sits down with PhD researcher and dietitian Christopher Oliver to discuss one of the most misunderstood areas in health and exercise science: body composition assessment. Chris shares insights from his PhD research comparing DEXA, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and 3D body-scanning technologies, while exploring their relationships with strength, function, and healthy ageing. The discussion challenges common assumptions about body fat percentage, muscle mass and BMI, highlighting why muscle quality may be more important than muscle quantity. The conversation also explores: Why BMI often fails in older adults The difference between muscle mass, lean mass and fat-free mass Sarcopenia versus dynapenia Why muscle quality may matter more than muscle quantity Ectopic fat and "fatty muscle" Limitations of DEXA and bioelectrical impedance devices The emerging role of phase angle How 3D body scanning and AI may transform health assessment The importance of functional measures such as handgrip strength and sit-to-stand performance Why cardiorespiratory fitness may be one of the strongest predictors of future health The future of personalised health assessment and healthspan monitoring Key Takeaways ✓ Muscle strength often declines faster than muscle mass during ageing. ✓ Fat-free mass is not the same as skeletal muscle mass. ✓ Ectopic fat infiltration into muscle may explain why some people have normal muscle mass but poor strength. ✓ Body composition should always be interpreted alongside functional outcomes. ✓ Handgrip strength and cardiorespiratory fitness may provide powerful insights into future health risk. ✓ Future health assessment may combine wearable technology, AI, body scanning and rapid fitness testing.

This interview provides an in-depth exploration of the principles that underpin the Technical Lifting system. Through practical examples and coaching insights, Dr Luke Del Vecchio and Shannon Green discuss how movement competency, assessment, exercise progressions, biomechanics, and coaching experience contribute to safer, more effective strength-training outcomes. Rather than focusing solely on exercises, the discussion encourages coaches and exercise professionals to develop a deeper understanding of the individual performing the movement and to build long-term success through assessment, education, and progressive development.

In this episode, Dr. Luke Del Vecchio speaks with Daniel Sullivan about his PhD research on hard martial arts interventions for older adults. They discuss the motivations and recruitment strategies for older adult participants, highlighting the importance of fun, play, and flexible payment plans. Daniel shares insights on participant engagement, the varying skill levels observed, and the potential cognitive and mental well-being benefits of hard martial arts. He also offers practical advice for instructors, emphasising patience, adaptability, and incorporating elements of play into class structures.

Australian Combat & Exercise's head of strength & conditioning and head of sports science discuss the benefits of martial arts training for strength, in particular for older adults. This forms part of our new course, Fighting Falls: Falls prevention and fitness for older adults.

Join us in this captivating episode of the Ace Podcast, where we have the honour of hosting Ziad Zakaria, affectionately known as Zak, the Principal of the Frank Dando Sports Academy in Melbourne. This episode offers a profound insight into how martial arts, coupled with targeted educational approaches, can transform the lives of young boys facing unique challenges. Zak, with his extensive experience in both martial arts and education, delves into his journey from being a seasoned martial artist to shaping young minds at the Frank Dando Sports Academy. The school is renowned for its unconventional yet highly effective approach to educating boys who, due to experiences with bullying, violence, lack of confidence, or symptoms of ADHD, have found traditional learning environments challenging. Remarkably, after two years at the Academy, many of these boys successfully reintegrate into mainstream schools. This conversation goes beyond mere theory, as Zak brings to the table over "50-years" of martial arts experience, along with his academic background in Human Movement & Psychology, and Education. He shares how martial arts, when taught with discipline, respect, and control, can significantly contribute to boosting self-esteem, confidence, resilience, and academic performance in troubled youths. Zak's approach is holistic, integrating martial arts like boxing, kickboxing, judo, and karate with academic education and counselling to provide a well-rounded development environment for the boys. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each child's unique situation and tailoring the martial arts training to instill discipline, control, and respect, rather than aggression. Listeners will be inspired by the transformative stories of the boys at Frank Dando Sports Academy, showcasing the power of martial arts in changing lives for the better. The episode also includes a discussion on the nuances of teaching martial arts to adolescents and how these practices differ from adult training. For anyone interested in the intersection of education, martial arts, and youth development, this episode is a must-listen. Zak's insights and experiences offer valuable lessons in how martial arts can be a powerful tool for positive change in young individuals. Tune in for an engaging and enlightening discussion on the transformative power of martial arts in education, and discover how Zak and his team at the Frank Dando Sports Academy are making a real difference in the lives of young boys. Link to "School of Hard Knocks" 60 minutes storey: https://fdsa.vic.edu.au/media-channels/

The Intersection of Martial Arts and Mental Health: Insights from Dr. Brian Moore" In this episode of our "Combat Exercise Podcast," we delve deep into the fascinating intersection of martial arts and mental health with our esteemed guest, Dr. Brian Moore from Charles State University. A researcher with a unique background in educational psychology, Dr. Moore shares his journey from being a long-time martial arts enthusiast to a dedicated investigator in the field. Throughout the episode, Dr. Moore sheds light on the nuanced relationship between martial arts practice and various aspects of mental health, particularly focusing on aggression, resilience, and self-efficacy. He critically evaluates the existing research, highlighting the gaps and the need for evidence-based practices in martial arts training. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the psychological theories relevant to martial arts, such as Albert Bandura's Theory of Aggression, and the implications of these theories in a training context. Dr. Moore discusses his own research, which utilizes a randomized controlled trial design to assess the impact of martial arts on mental well-being. The findings reveal intriguing aspects of how martial arts can positively affect resilience and self-efficacy, albeit with caution advised in the interpretation and application of these findings. Furthermore, Dr. Moore addresses the role and limitations of martial arts instructors in the context of mental health, offering advice on how to responsibly integrate martial arts as a complementary approach to traditional therapy, rather than a standalone treatment for mental health issues. This episode is not just for martial arts enthusiasts but also for mental health professionals, educators, and anyone interested in the comprehensive understanding of how physical disciplines like martial arts can intersect with psychological well-being. Tune in to this episode for a thoughtful and informed discussion that bridges the gap between martial arts and mental health, providing a new perspective on how these two fields can inform and enhance each other.

Join us in this compelling episode as we delve into the fascinating world of boxing as a therapeutic regimen for Parkinson's disease. In our interview with Professor David Blacker, the Perron Institute Medical Director, and a person living with Parkinson's himself, we explore the fascinating results of the FIGHT-PD study. Discover how Professor Blacker, along with Rai Fazio, former Golden Gloves champion turned fitness trainer, embarked on this remarkable journey to investigate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of non-contact boxing training for individuals in the early stages of Parkinson's. Learn about the study's progressive phases, from initial technique training to high-intensity workouts and cognitive dual-task training, and how it has positively impacted the lives of those with Parkinson's. Professor Blacker shares his personal experience with the disease and how exercise, particularly boxing, has significantly improved his symptoms. This podcast episode provides valuable insights into the potential of boxing as a specialised approach for enhancing physical and functional aspects in people living with Parkinson's disease. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that bridges research, personal experience, and the hope of improved well-being for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.

Dr Luke Del Vecchio discusses High-Intensity Interval Training with Dr Shelly Keating. Is HIIT is an effective exercise intervention for weight loss?

Dr Luke discusses the upper back with Mark Kenna. Common injuries, rehab and more.

Dr Luke Del Vecchio discusses the research regarding head trauma and concussion in combat sports with Dr Dan Brown.

Dr Luke Del Vecchio interviews Cardiovascular risks of HIIT with Associate Professor: Mike Climstein

Dr Luke Del Vecchio interviews Christian Swan who has recently published research that challenges the traditional wisdom of goal setting.

In this interview, Dr Luke Del Vecchio chats with exercise scientist James Longhurst about the hight intensity interval training protocol life sprints.

In this interview, Dr Luke Del Vecchio discusses exercise programming with Strength and conditioning specialist Shannon Green. Shannon is the lead presenter and co-creator our popular course Technical lifting with the science of strength. Shannon is one of Australia's best and most passionate strength & conditioning coaches.