The Exercise Coach presents: The Strength Changes Everything Podcast. Learn from Exercise Coach Co-Founder Brian Cygan, Franchisee Amy Hudson, and Dr. James Fisher, Chief Science Officer of The Exercise Coach about how to enjoy a strong, healthy lifestyle. The Exercise Coach’s unique two 20-minute workouts a week is how thousands across the United States get and stay in great shape. This podcast gives you the facts, from the experts, in easy-to-understand lessons so you can take control of y ...
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Contralateral Adaptations, Strength Training Through Injury and Surgery
23:16
23:16
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23:16Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher discuss the critical role of strength training before and after surgery—and why it can make all the difference in your recovery. They cover how pre-surgery strength sets the stage for success, what to do (and what not to do) after an injury, and how training one side of your body can benefit the other. Tune in to lea…
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Stretch Your Muscles, Stretch Your Life: How Flexibility Impacts Strength, Pain, and Performance with Dr. Dave Behm
32:44
32:44
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32:44Hosts Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher discuss all things stretching and muscle soreness with Dr. Dave Behm, author of The Science and Physiology of Flexibility and Stretching. They cover the most common affliction, when it makes sense to stretch, and for how long you should stretch. You’ll also hear expert insights on the correlation between stretc…
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How to Strength Train Smarter by Controlling Your Range of Motion
27:37
27:37
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27:37Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher discuss the importance of range of motion in strength training and how it impacts performance, injury prevention, and long-term joint health. They cover why strength varies throughout a movement, the dangers of locking out your joints, and the myths about extreme ranges of motion. Tune in to hear expert insights on t…
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The Truth About Type I and Type II Muscle Fibers: Strength Training Essentials
22:39
22:39
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22:39Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the difference between type one and type two muscle fibers—why they matter, how they function, and how to train them effectively. They discuss why neglecting type two fibers can lead to rapid muscle loss and how simple strength exercises can make a huge difference in keeping you strong, mobile, and functional…
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Why Most People Fail in the Gym (And How Supervision With a Personal Trainer Can Help)
27:57
27:57
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27:57Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher dive deep into the science of supervised workouts, sharing research on the benefits of guided workouts. They explore the key differences between supervised and unsupervised training, why many people struggle to train effectively on their own, and how coaching impacts technique, effort, safety, and motivation. Tune in…
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The Truth About Exercise Plateaus and How to Move Forward
46:32
46:32
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46:32Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher tackle one of the biggest frustrations in fitness—plateaus. They break down why plateaus happen, the role of recovery, nutrition, and mindset, and how to adjust your training to keep moving forward. Tune in to hear why slow progress is better than doing nothing at all, the importance of balancing effort with rest, an…
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Strength Training for Women: Hormones Aren’t Your Enemy with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple
38:27
38:27
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38:27Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher talk with Lauren Colenso-Semple about the science of female muscle physiology and how hormonal fluctuations impact strength training. They explore the misconceptions around women’s hormones, the underrepresentation of women in research, and whether training recommendations should differ between men and women. Lauren …
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Global Consensus: The Science-Backed Benefits of Resistance Training for Healthy Aging
35:10
35:10
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35:10Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher break down the latest research on exercise and longevity, focusing on the newly published Global Consensus on Optimal Exercise Recommendations for Enhancing Healthy Longevity in Older Adults. They explore why resistance training is essential for healthy aging, preserving muscle mass, bone density, and overall functio…
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Q&A: GLP-1 for Weight Loss: The Science, Side Effects & How to Protect Your Muscles
18:17
18:17
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18:17Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss. They discuss how these drugs work, why muscle mass, not just body weight, is the true marker of health, and why many people who lose weight too quickly end up weaker, not healthier. Tune in to hear the long-term risks of GLP-1 use and how …
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The 6 Essential Elements of an Effective Strength Training Program with Matt Brzycki
33:34
33:34
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33:34Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher sit down with Matt Brzycki, a strength and health fitness expert with more than 41 years of experience as an administrator, instructor, and a coach. They discuss how to get stronger, train smarter, and see real results—without wasting time or risking injury. Tune in to hear the key principles of an effective workout,…
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Strength Training: The Untold Benefits of Exercise for the Brain
19:15
19:15
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19:15Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the powerful connection between strength training and brain health. They discuss how resistance training enhances cognitive function, the surprising link between resistance training and Alzheimer’s, and how lifting weights can improve insulin sensitivity. Tune in to hear how strength training benefits not jus…
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The 30-Day Metabolic Comeback Challenge: A Smarter Way to Achieve a Metabolic Reset with Gerianne Cygan
22:18
22:18
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22:18Amy Hudson sits down with Gerianne Cygan, the Co-Founder of the Exercise Coach, to discuss what it takes to achieve a Metabolic Comeback. They discuss why most diets fail, how yo-yo dieting leads to more fat gain over time, and why strength training is essential for sustainable fat loss. Tune in to hear how you can reset your metabolism, boost ener…
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Why Strength Training Works for Everyone — No Exceptions
30:08
30:08
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30:08Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher break down three important research papers on the connection between strength, muscle mass, and longevity. They cover the benefits of exercising regularly and how being strong—regardless of weight—greatly reduces the risk of all-cause mortality. Tune in to hear valuable insights on how strength training improves heal…
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Can You Reverse Osteoporosis? Strength Training for Bone Mineral Density
17:03
17:03
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17:03Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher dive into the critical connection between strength training and bone health, explaining how building muscle can improve bone density and combat age-related bone loss. They explain the role of hormones like testosterone and estrogen in bone health and why starting resistance training early makes such a big difference.…
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Q&A: How Strength Training Before and After Injury Can Transform Your Healing Journey
13:18
13:18
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13:18Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore how strength training is more than just a workout—it's a lifelong investment in your health, mobility, and resilience. You’ll learn why proactive strength training can act as your body’s insurance policy, how to recover faster after an injury, and the surprising science behind strength training through pregna…
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How to Lose Fat Without Muscle Loss: Science-Backed Solutions with Dr. Wayne Westcott
42:28
42:28
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42:28Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher chat with Dr. Wayne Westcott, an accomplished international authority in health, fitness and aging. He’s the author of over 25 fitness books and the go-to expert and deep source of knowledge for maintaining strength at any age. They discuss how strength training not only combats muscle and bone loss but also helps pr…
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How to Set Goals for the New Year and Crush 2025 Through Healthy Habits
28:24
28:24
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28:24Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the science, strategies, and mindset shifts needed to set meaningful goals and build sustainable habits. From understanding what health truly means to leveraging neuroplasticity and dopamine to stay motivated, they share actionable insights that can help you take charge of your well-being and make the upcomin…
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How Resistance Training Exercises for Seniors Can Boost Functional Capacity
29:08
29:08
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29:08Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher dive into the best resistance training exercises for seniors, offering insights into how these exercises improve strength, mobility, and independence. You’ll learn why resistance training is essential for healthy aging, how to tailor exercises to individual needs, and practical tips to start or improve your fitness j…
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Q&A: Warm Up or No Warm Up, Eating Before or After Workout, Body Sculpting, Cardio vs. Strength Training
41:04
41:04
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41:04Amy Hudson, Brian Cygan, and Dr. James Fisher answer all your burning questions about health, fitness, and strength training. They cover the best way to warm-up before strength training, eating before or after a workout, and why you should prioritize strength training over cardiovascular exercises. Amy, Brian, and James discuss how becoming stronge…
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NEW SEASON! The Secret to Feeling Decades Younger; Welcoming a New Co-host
40:34
40:34
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40:34Welcome to Season 2 of the Strength Changes Everything! In this kickoff pisode, Amy Hudson, Brian Cygan, and Dr. James Fisher dive into the science of strength training and how it can help optimize your health, wellness, and longevity. Expect to hear the latest science, practical tips, and inspiring stories to help you build strength, optimize heal…
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Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about myths involving fitness... Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why …
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The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise
11:33
11:33
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11:33Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about dose-response and what it means for your fitness... Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you…
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Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?
8:58
8:58
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8:58Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how strength training should complement dieting for weight loss... Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recip…
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The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain
21:51
21:51
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21:51Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about effective exercise for your lower back and what can surprisingly make lower back pain worse... In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower …
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Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about solving the problems causing lower back pain... Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatment…
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Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the importance of muscle burn... Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, y…
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How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes
17:02
17:02
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17:02Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about life-changing advice and details about pre-diabetes... Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or …
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The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why
26:16
26:16
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26:16Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the Exercise Coach's strong business model... Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a …
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Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?
16:03
16:03
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16:03Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about misconceptions about machines and if free weights or machines are better... Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in th…
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Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how you can use more effort in less time... Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overl…
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The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything
12:28
12:28
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12:28Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science and principles behind strength training... Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workou…
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How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?
17:53
17:53
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17:53Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the benefits of strength training in a fun manner... In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something…
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The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 2
32:21
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32:21Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about what is accepted versus what is truth... In part 2 of this interview, Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the science of strength and why the accepted wisdom of exercise may actually be causing more harm than good. Learn how many exercises you really need during a session, why “card…
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The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 1
23:59
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23:59Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science of strength and how it may affect your fitness plans and goals... Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher break down the science of strength and discuss what the proper level of resistance during training is, the threshold for the effort that you need to achieve to see results, and …
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What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?
17:38
17:38
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17:38Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about why supervision is key to effective workouts... When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discu…
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Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?
7:23
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7:23Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about isolation vs compound exercises... Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compou…
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Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?
11:04
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11:04Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the right movements and how they may give you more time... Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking…
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Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?
15:50
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15:50Join us for this replay from the archives and learn the truth about stretching before and after exercise... Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretchi…
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Is It Safe to Wear a Mask While Exercising?
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12:03Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about oxygen intake and masks... Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about whether or not wearing a mask during exercise is a safe thing to do. Amy and Brian breakdown the studies and science behind wearing a mask and oxygen intake, and reveal why The Exercise Co…
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Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how smart scales can be important to your fitness journey... Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people ma…
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What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?
14:53
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14:53Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how strength training can help people with osteoporosis... Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what ex…
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Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the optimal amount of exercise... One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you nee…
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Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about muscle vs fat while on the road to improved health... Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people s…
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Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the benefits of doing the right workout... Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal…
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Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the truth to losing belly fat... Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredi…
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Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?
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18:35Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about preventing the ill effects of aging... Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one …
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Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about getting toned and lean, rather than bulky... Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always want…
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What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health
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15:15Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about exercise for athletes vs the average person... Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average per…
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What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean into Old Age
16:12
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16:12Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about staying strong as you age... In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even w…
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What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?
23:07
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23:07Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about strength training versus traditional cardio... Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get …
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