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Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is often touted as the frontier of anti-aging supplements, promising not just more years of life, but better quality ones.  With bold claims of enhancing lifespan and slowing down aging, to improving physical performance, body composition, and brain health, NMN has captured the attention of both consumers and scientists. But how much truth is there to these claims?  In this episode, I’ll explore the molecule NMN, its benefits, the research supporting it, and whether or not it stands up to the hype.  Whether you're a skeptic or a hopeful believer in the search for the fountain of youth, listen to this podcast to learn about the potential of NMN supplements. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 2:19 - What is NMN and Why Is It Important? 5:31 - What Does Current Research Say About NMN? 9:52 - Can NMN Really Improve Your Physical Performance and Body Composition? 12:12 - Legion One-on-One Coaching: https://www.muscleforlife.show/vip 13:53 - Is NMN Anti-Aging? Can NMN Supplements Stop or Reverse Aging? 16:57 - Do NMN Supplements Improve Cognition and Brain Health? 21:15 - Are NMN Supplements Worth the Hype? Mentioned on the Show: Legion One-on-One Coaching: https://www.muscleforlife.show/vip

The debate around training to muscular failure has raged for decades. Is it necessary? Is it practical? Is it safe?  Expert opinion is all over the map, ranging from one extreme of low-volume, maximum-intensity, “beyond-failure” training to the other of high-volume, low-intensity, “never-even-close-to-failure” training; and every degree and permutation in between. Which philosophy is right? Or at least the most right? And more importantly, which is right specifically for you and your circumstances and goals? That is, are you training hard enough to efficiently and effectively achieve your goals? In this episode, renowned expert Lyle McDonald settles these questions and more, including what true muscular failure is (physiologically); why, in some ways, proximity to failure in training matters more than many other programming variables like load and rep ranges; why many people could benefit from more proximity to failure in their training rather than less; and more. And in case you're not familiar with Lyle, he’s a health and fitness researcher and author, and one of the godfathers of evidence-based fitness space whose work has greatly influenced my own, especially in the beginning of my career. In this interview, you'll learn: What failure is (technical, muscular, and volitional failure) and why proximity to failure is such an important factor in training for muscle growth How close you need to be to failure for maximal muscle fiber recruitment and growth The effects of training to failure on fatigue and how that interplays with training volumes Whether “beyond failure” techniques like dropsets and forced reps can be effective when controlled How to gauge and achieve effective reps for enhanced muscle development Guidance on the optimal proximity to failure for sustainable results Practical tips for reaching the optimal proximity to failure and incorporating variety in training to maintain long-term progress How often you should test true failure to ensure your training intensity is sufficient And more . . . Whether you’re seeking to optimize your workouts or someone curious about the science behind muscle growth, this myth-busting discussion will give you science-based clarity on one of fitness's most persistent debates.  So give it a listen and you'll be far better equipped to gauge your workout intensity and program it sustainably for better gains. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 3:20 - Why is Training to Failure Crucial for Muscle Growth? 08:29 - What Does Muscle Failure Really Mean and How Does It Impact Growth? 24:00 - Is Proximity to Failure More Important Than Your Workout Program? 33:11 - How Can You Optimize Volume and Reps for Maximum Muscle Growth? 43:06 - Save 25% on Pulse and Recharge! Go to buylegion.com and use code MUSCLE 44:33 - Why Are Rest Times Crucial for Maximizing Training Effectiveness? 54:05 - How Do You Recognize and Achieve True Muscular Failure? 1:01:41 - What Are Reps in Reserve and How Can They Optimize Your Training? 1:11:35 - How Can You Accurately Identify a True Failure Rep? 1:14:34 - Are Forced Reps and Other “Beyond Failure” Training Techniques Effective? 1:23:00 - Why Is Variety Important in Your Training Regimen? 1:32:01 - Where to Find Lyle McDonald’s Work? Mentioned on the Show: Save 25% on my pre-workout Pulse and post-workout Recharge now! Go to https://buylegion.com/ and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% on any non-sale items or get double reward points! Lyle’s Website: https://bodyrecomposition.com/

Are saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunges beneficial after workouts? How can you naturally boost your testosterone levels quickly? What’s the best way to stop snacking out of boredom or anxiety?  In this episode, I delve into these and other intriguing questions from my listeners. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:34 - Benefits of sauna, steam room, and cold plunge post-workout? 3:44 - Is the stair stepper as effective as the treadmill? 4:38 - How to recomp when feeling too bulky? 7:06 - Should supplements be timed on a fasted stomach? 9:27 - Fastest methods to boost testosterone naturally? 12:46 - Try my upgraded, reformulated sleep aid, Lunar! Go to buylegion.com/lunar and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points! 16:19 - Update on Legion's new energy drink. 17:31 - How to stop snacking due to boredom or anxiety? 18:13 - Have I considered competing in bodybuilding? 19:38 - Strategies for overcoming fear. 21:36 - Evaluating the pink salt and honey pre-workout trend. 22:43 - Maintaining motivation in diet and exercise routines. 25:10 - Importance of barbells for hypertrophy. 26:40 - Effective exercises for weak biceps. Mentioned on the Show: Try my upgraded, reformulated sleep aid, Lunar! Go to buylegion.com/lunar and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points!

In this episode, I sit down with Dan, who achieved remarkable results through Legion’s one-on-one coaching program.  In just 3 months, he shed 20 pounds, significantly reduced his body fat, and saw more muscle definition than ever before. Though he previously experimented with various fitness routines like P90X and Body Beast, Dan's newfound success is rooted in his consistency with nutrition tracking and meal planning, along with a tailored workout routine that accommodated his hip arthritis. In this interview, Dan opens up about his past challenges, including alcohol consumption and diet compliance, and how making changes in these areas contributed to his success. He shares insights into transitioning to a lean bulking phase and offers practical tips for others starting their fitness journeys. Tune in to hear Dan's story and learn how personalization in training and diet, combined with a mindset focused on long-term sustainability, can lead to transformative results. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 2:22 - What prompted Dan to try the Legion one-on-one coaching program? 10:16 - How does Dan manage cheat meals and alcohol consumption? 12:44 - What was Dan's experience with reducing daily alcohol intake? 20:37 - Want 125 quick, easy, and delicious “fitness friendly” recipes? Get The Shredded Chef: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/the-shredded-chef/ 23:46 - What did Dan's training routine look like during the coaching program? 33:09 - Why did Dan include yoga in his fitness routine? 34:15 - Did Dan make any changes to his training when starting his cutting phase? 35:26 - What alternative exercises worked well for Dan? 37:17 - Has Dan noticed differences since beginning his lean bulking phase? 43:39 - Has Dan made adjustments to his training program and its volume? 49:44 - What key principles has Dan learned to enhance his workout effectiveness? Mentioned on the Show:  Want 125 quick, easy, and delicious “fitness friendly” recipes? Get The Shredded Chef: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/the-shredded-chef/

Kinesiology tape has become a common sight in the world of sports and in the gym. But what does it really do? Is there good science supporting its use, or is it all hype?   In this episode, we examine the scientific principles of kinesiology tape. From its supposed ability to reduce pain and inflammation to claims of improved muscle function, we dissect what research says versus popular belief.   Whether you're an athlete considering kinesiology tape, a fitness enthusiast curious about its effects, or just someone fascinated by sports science, listen to this podcast to gain a clearer understanding of what kinesiology tape can and cannot do.   Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:49 - What is kinesiology tape? 2:36 - What are the benefits of KT tape? 3:59 - What does the scientific research say about kinesiology tape? 7:29 - Shop Legion Supplements Here: https://buylegion.com/ and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points! 10:39 - Does KT Tape enhance proprioception? 14:08 - Can KT Tape reduce swelling? 14:39 - Does kinesiology tape improve strength? 15:54 - Does KT Tape increase your flexibility?  17:27 - Can KT tape boost athletic performance? 19:08 - Does kinesiology tape help in preventing injuries? 21:39 - How effective is KT tape? 22:41 - How should you apply KT tape for best results?   Mentioned on the Show: Shop Legion Supplements Here: https://buylegion.com/ and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points!

Hitting a fitness plateau can be frustrating, but often the battle is not just physical—it's mental.  In this episode, Kasey Orvidas joins us to unravel the psychological elements that contribute to fitness stagnation. Specifically, we delve into the importance of understanding your own behavioral patterns and thought processes, and discuss the importance of being a "researcher in your own life" to get to the root causes behind your fitness plateaus. In case you're not familiar with her, Kasey Orvidas holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and is a certified health and fitness coach, renowned for her expertise in mindset and health behavior change.  With numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, Kasey combines academic rigor with practical coaching, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a wider audience. In this podcast, Kasey and I discuss . . . Recognizing and addressing the psychological factors contributing to fitness plateaus Practical strategies for developing a growth mindset and enhancing motivation, including effectively responding to feedback, setbacks, and others' success Understanding the power of negative emotions and how to reframe challenges positively The role of acceptance and commitment therapy in managing difficult thoughts and feelings The influence of your social circle on motivation and ongoing success Avoiding rash decisions during emotional turmoil by creating space for rational thinking And much more . . . So, listen to this podcast to learn how to break through mental fitness barriers with a robust, growth-oriented mindset. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 13:12 - What signs indicate a lack of motivation in fitness? 21:33 - How can one improve at seeking and accepting feedback? 32:04 - Legion One-on-One Coaching: https://www.muscleforlife.show/vip 34:51 - What are effective ways to handle setbacks in fitness? 52:32 - How should we respond to the success of others? 01:03:28 - Why is it important to consider emotional states when making decisions? 01:09:14 - Where can people find more about Kasey Orvidas and her work? Mentioned on the Show: Legion One-on-One Coaching: https://www.muscleforlife.show/vip Kasey’s Website: https://www.kaseyorvidas.com/ Kasey’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachkaseyjo/

Is there a testosterone crisis in men? If so, why? And is it impacting you—are your testosterone levels declining or already low? How can you know? And what can you do about it? You’re going to get answers to those questions and more in today’s interview with men's health expert, Ali Gilbert. In case you’re not familiar with her, Ali is a men’s health coach popularly known as the “Queen of Men’s Health” online, and she has helped thousands of men of all ages improve their hormones and thus their health, energy, and physical, mental, and sexual performance. In this podcast, Ali and I chat about . . . The factors affecting the decline in testosterone levels in men and why it’s a significant concern for men’s health and well-being The role of nutrition, fitness, and sleep in maintaining hormonal balance  Science-based ways of naturally optimizing your hormonal health The controversy surrounding TRT and myths about estrogen’s role in men’s health The impact of alcohol on hormonal health The importance of sun exposure and where to get reliable hormone assessments And much more . . . This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the nuances of hormonal health and how to take control of their well-being through informed lifestyle choices. Timestamps:0:00 - Please ⁠leave a review⁠ of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 4:00 - Is there an actual decline in testosterone levels among men today? 7:41 - What are the health impacts of low testosterone in men? 15:01 - Are traditional masculine traits biologically influenced or mere social constructs? 30:05 - Try Pulse today! Go to https://buylegion.com/pulse and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points! 32:17 - What factors contribute to the decrease in testosterone levels? 01:01:09 - Why is reducing estrogen levels harmful to men's health? 1:12:20 - What lifestyle changes can men make to optimize testosterone and estrogen? 1:17:42 - How does alcohol consumption affect men's hormones? 1:35:07 - Where can listeners connect with Ali Gilbert and her work? Mentioned on the Show:Try Pulse today! Go to https://buylegion.com/pulse and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points! Ali's Website: ⁠https://ali-gilbert.com/⁠ Ali's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealigilbert/?hl=en

How can you manage lower back pain during workouts? What's really happening when you're feeling full on a calorie deficit? And is the X-3 Bar a worthwhile investment? In this episode, I'll explore these topics and many more, giving you the insights you need to adjust your fitness routine effectively while ensuring long-term health and performance. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:02 - Tips for encouraging a male partner to work out and eat better? 1:46 - Favorite dictator? 2:21 - Feeling full in a calorie deficit, what's going on? 5:29 - Whose cocaine was it at the White House? 5:58 - For weight loss, is it better to do more reps with lower weights or higher weight with fewer reps? 9:10 - Thoughts on the X3 Bar? 13:27 - Lower back getting tight after a couple of sets of deadlifts and squats, any solution? 18:05 - Try Whey+ risk-free today! Go to buylegion.com/whey and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points! 20:41 - Is it okay to just supplement vitamin D if the sun feels too strong? 21:37 - Why does the new Legion cookie have multiple sugars and sweeteners? 23:15 - Do you have any comments on the state of the union? 23:51 - Noticing a lack of meme content, is everything alright? 24:17 - Biceps curl: start with palms facing up or hammer grip to palms up rotation? 25:40 - Why are you the best fitness influencer on the internet? 26:21 - Thoughts on NMN supplements? 27:53 - Are ice baths good for recovery and what temperature is too low? 30:29 - What are the odds of tearing a muscle at the joint? 32:14 - Best way to develop your aerobic base? 32:38 - Your take on wine and fat loss? 33:33 - Advice on starting a business? Mentioned on the Show: Try Whey+ risk-free today! Go to buylegion.com/whey and use coupon code MUSCLE to save 20% or get double reward points!

Ever stepped on the scale and wondered why your weight seems to dance around day by day?  You're not alone.  In this episode, we explore the multiple factors contributing to daily weight fluctuations.  From food weight, carbohydrate intake, sodium levels, to stress, strength training, the menstrual cycle, and even alcohol consumption—each plays a unique role in your body's weight changes.  You’re going to learn the best practices for tracking your weight effectively and understand how to interpret these fluctuations for a more accurate picture of your fitness progress. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 2:20 - Your weight is going to fluctuate. 5:54 - What is food weight? 7:29 - How do carbs affect weight fluctuation? 10:57 - Legion One-on-One Coaching: https://www.muscleforlife.show/vip 13:45 - How does sodium affect body weight? 15:15 - How does stress affect your weight? 19:55 - Can strength training affect weight fluctuation? 23:07 - Menstrual cycle effects on weight 23:52 - How can alcohol affect your weight? 24:18 - What is the best way to track your weight accurately? Mentioned on the Show: Legion One-on-One Coaching: https://www.muscleforlife.show/vip

Is calisthenics just a fancy name for bodyweight training, or is it something more? What are the benefits of calisthenics, does it beat out weightlifting, and how can you incorporate it into your routine? These are all questions you’ll learn the answers to in this interview with Al Kavadlo. In case you’re not familiar with him, he's a leading expert in bodyweight strength training and calisthenics, and the author of several influential books in the field, including Get Strong. He’s also been featured in major publications like The New York Times and Men's Health.  Through our discussion, we cover a range of topics, including . . . The benefits of calisthenics and how it compares with strength training and more traditional resistance training with machines and isolation movements How to incorporate calisthenics into your routine, including transitioning from traditional weightlifting to calisthenics, especially for older athletes Effective progressions for advanced calisthenics movements like the muscle-up and pistol squat Adapting calisthenics to busy schedules and limited equipment  Common pitfalls in calisthenics training and how to avoid them The value of resistance bands And much more . . . Whether you're new to calisthenics or looking to refine your technique, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert insights, so give it a listen! Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:53 - How do calisthenics differ from bodyweight training? 6:54 - What are the primary benefits of calisthenics? 9:16 - What specific skills does calisthenics training target? 14:16 - How can incorporating calisthenics benefit your daily routine? 17:01 - What are some basic calisthenics exercises and their variations? 18:45 - Where to start if you can’t do a pushup or chin-up yet? 22:33 - My award-winning fitness books for men and women: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/ 24:26 - What's the next step after establishing a solid calisthenics foundation? 32:10 - Why is the pistol squat challenging and how to master it? 36:59 - How should you program the pistol squat into your workout? 40:19 - Are lunges a part of a calisthenics routine? 46:04 - What are Al Kavadlo’s thoughts on using bands in calisthenics? 55:49 - How to know if calisthenics is right for you? 01:02:34 - Where to find Al Kavadlo and his work? Mentioned on the Show: My award-winning fitness books for men and women: https://legionathletics.com/products/books/ Al’s Get Shredded Guide: https://www.fortifytraining.com/get-shredded-free Al's Website: https://alkavadlo.com/ Al's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/al_kavadlo/

Should you feel hungry while bulking, or feel stuffed from the calorie surplus?  Are there benefits to starting your morning with salt water? Should you train the same way in your 40s as you did in your 20s?  In this episode, I'll explore these topics and many more, giving you the insights you need to adjust your fitness routine effectively while ensuring long-term health and performance. As always, these questions come directly from my Instagram followers, who take advantage of my weekly Q&As in my stories. If you have a question you're dying to have answered, make sure you follow me on Instagram (@muscleforlifefitness) and look out for the Q&A posts. Your question might just make it into a podcast episode! If you like this type of episode, let me know. Send me an email (mike@muscleforlife.com) or direct message me on Instagram. And if you don’t like it, let me know that too or how you think it could be better. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 1:33 - Should you feel hungry while in a slight calorie surplus? Or does bulking feel like you're stuffing yourself? 3:33 - Should you add salt to your water first thing in the morning? 6:34 - What is one thing everyone should incorporate into their diet? 10:04 - Should you still have the same workout after your 40s compared to your 20s and 30s? 11:26 - Does making funny lifting faces increase output? 11:59 Midroll ad 13:19 - How much caffeine is too much in one day for a 185lb male? 14:41 - Is it true you can train side delts with more volume than other muscle groups? 16:11 - How to find your new TDEE after a long period of dieting? 17:55 - What are your thoughts on religion? 20:51 - Is there an ideal timeframe for resting between working out certain muscle groups? 23:14 - Does making faces in the gym increase wrinkles? 23:36 - Strategies for overcoming strength plateaus 25:12 - Single arm vs. double arm lateral raises 26:36 - Using slower tempos with light weights 28:09 - What are your thoughts on Mike Mentzer and Dorian Yates HIT training style? Mentioned on the Show: Our Biggest Sale of the Year Is Here! Save 50% during our Black Friday Sale. Go to https://buylegion.com/ and use coupon code MUSCLE to get double reward points!

In this episode, I interview Katherine, a 60-year-old massage therapist who had struggled with her body composition until deciding to get in stage shape as a birthday challenge.  Even though she’s no stranger to fitness and had competed before, stress and lack of consistency caused her nutrition and training to suffer in recent years.  So, she signed up for Legion’s one-on-one coaching and started working with a Legion coach, which gave her the know-how and accountability she needed to succeed. In this interview, she offers her experience and best tips for sustainably getting leaner regardless of age, emphasizing why getting a customized plan and coach can make all the difference.  Tune in to learn how Katherine achieved her ultimate goal—standing victorious on the 60+ bikini stage—proving you’re never too old to achieve ambitious fitness goals. Timestamps: 0:00 - Please leave a review of the show wherever you listen to podcasts and make sure to subscribe! 3:42 - Starting Legion's coaching program and contest prep 6:10 - Tracking food and flexible dieting approach 8:33 - Getting very lean for the stage vs regular fat loss goals 11:35 - Dealing with hunger, cravings and off-plan eating 13:59 - Why Katherine experimented with the carnivore diet 17:45 - My free quiz to answer all your diet questions: www.muscleforlife.show/dietquiz 18:32 - Training focus and strategy for strength gains while cutting 23:30 - Peak week changes to training and cardio 25:42 - Show results - weight loss and body fat percentage 27:40 - No extended plateaus - why consistent hard work paid off 35:50 - Experience prepping in your 60s vs if you were 20 years old 36:41 - Mindset: solutions vs excuses 38:09 - Reverse dieting to put on more muscle in the off-season 40:41 - Having a coach as the ultimate shortcut 42:02 - Accomplishing goals through consistent hard work Mentioned on the show:  Take this free quiz to get science-based answers to all of your diet questions: www.muscleforlife.show/dietquiz