Barbell Shrugged

In today's episode of Barbell Shrugged, Anders, Doug, and Travis dive into Coach Travis' recent melanoma diagnosis, how he found out about it, and his recent surgery to eliminate it. We also dive into Anders' quest to build a gym in the middle of the woods where he plans on lifting giant trees and the latest in strength tech with Travis Mash. Work With Us: Arétē by RAPID Health Optimization Links:...

Dr. Mike T. Nelson has spent 18 years of his life learning how the human body works, specifically focusing on how to properly condition it to burn fat and become stronger, more flexible, and healthier. He's has a PhD in Exercise Physiology, a BA in Natural Science, and an MS in Biomechanics. He's an adjunct professor and a member of the American College of Sports Medicine. Dr. Nelson has been call...

Blair LaCorte is the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging—the world's first biomedical research institution dedicated solely to understanding aging and age-related diseases, and the largest independent scientific institute in the Bay Area. A seasoned leader and strategist, Blair has a track record of transforming companies across five industries, leverag...

Aaron Straker is a N.A.S.N. Licensed Primary Sports Nutritionist. He prefers a pragmatic approach to nutrition that focuses on simple food selection, the importance of nutrient density, and the importance of objectivity in dieting and reporting. Today on Barbell Shrugged we dive into Straker's path to becoming and IFBB Pro. From injury, setbacks, discipline, and his transparent usage of performanc...

In today's episode of Barbell Shrugged, we'll be discussing the various factors that impact brain health and exploring strategies for optimizing brain function. First, we'll be discussing the impact of exercise on brain health. Research has shown that regular exercise can help to improve brain function, enhance cognitive performance, and even reduce the risk of certain neurological disorders. We'l...

Melissa is a performance physical therapist and is heavily involved in the CrossFit space as a healthcare provider, as well as an athlete. Melissa grew up in the Metropolitan New York area, but now resides in the Tampa Bay area. Upon graduating from PT school, Melissa started working in an outpatient orthopedic physical therapy practice, but was unsatisfied with what she was able to achieve there...

In today's episode of Barbell Shrugged Dan Garner dives into how you can start to analyze your yearly bloodwork for performance. Standard blood tests can be ordered around the globe, in every country, and are the gold standard for understanding basic health. The normal reference ranges, however, are not giving you the answers you are looking for when it come to optimizing your health and performan...

Bryan Boorstein has 24 years of training and over 13 years of coaching experience. A 3-time CrossFit Regional athlete and CrossFit Games coach, Bryan holds a Bachelor of Science from JMU (2006) and certifications in CrossFit L-2 and Mobility. As the owner and founder of Evolved Training Systems and Paragon Training Methods, he's a trusted name in fitness. Bryan's been featured on ESPN Radio and nu...

Dr. Christopher A. Perry, an Assistant Professor at Eastern Kentucky University, began his fitness journey at Penn State University, where he developed a robust background in Strength & Conditioning leading to 17 years in the industry to date. His academic path, leading through a PhD at Arizona State University, deepened his expertise in Exercise Science & Sports, Sleep & Circadian Rhythms, and Nu...

Flavia is a passionate CISSN nutrition coach, full-time Exercise & Sport Science faculty member, and beach volleyball strength & nutrition coach. She has been teaching and coaching for the past 18 years. She graduated with a B.S. and M.S. in Kinesiology - Exercise Science and is pursuing her Ph. D. in Health & Human Performance. Flavia is part of the Rapid Health Optimization team as a nutritionis...

In today's episode of Barbell Shrugged, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis sit down with Anders coach, Dr. Mike T. Nelson. For those that have followed the show, you know Anders has been in pursuit of running a sub-6 minute mile at the age of 40. Dr. Nelson is the coach Anders hired to help with that goal. In this episode the crew walks through program design, initial intake, and execution of...

The crew breaks down how to know when it's time to pivot your training. From bodybuilding and Olympic lifting to CrossFit, strongman, and martial arts, they share what decades under the bar have taught them about adapting for longevity, avoiding injury, and keeping fitness enjoyable. In this episode, you will learn: How to recognize when your training is no longer serving you Safer alternatives to...

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: What is the immune system Why the immune system is responsible for building muscle How gut health impacts the immune system Understanding recovery and its impact on the immune system How to optimize your immune system for performance Visit https://rapidhealthoptimization.com Connect with our guests:   Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Tr...

Dr. Jess Gwin is a PhD in Nutritional Science and post-doctoral fellowship focused on muscle physiology and protein metabolism. Researcher in protein/essential amino acids (EAAs) nutrition, muscle preservation, and energy deficiency. Advocate for using data-driven nutrition to extend health span and performance. Work With Us: Arétē by RAPID Health Optimization Links: Anders Varner on Instagram Dou...

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: What to look for in lab work about your glucose levels What Doctors will not tell you about your glucose levels How to know if you are pre-pre-diabetic Why normal range for your glucose levels could be a bad thing How to regulate blood glucose and why it is important Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis Mash...

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: Why the gut is so important for optimal health. What causes poor gut health and how to avoid it How important is a stool sample to find potential hidden stressors What your poop can tell you about your health Ways to improve gut health https://rapidhealthoptimization.com Connect with our guests: Anders Varner on Instagram Doug Larson on Instagram Coach Travis M...

Bert and his wonderful wife Lesley are the proud parents of three children. Bert and his family, a family rooted in strength, have been entrenched in the human performance world for as far back as he can remember. Growing up with a barbell in his hand has been pivotal in charting the course of his life and leading him to become a 4-time Division 1 All-American Track and Field (Hammer and 35 lb. We...

The home team is back again and Travis Mash has been posting too many shirtless selfies with all the abs for us not address the nutrition, fitness, and training programs he is up to. Tons of insight into getting back to the basics, simplifying, and making it all work while keeping family at the center of it all. Enjoy. Work With Us: Arétē by RAPID Health Optimization Links: Anders Varner on Instag...

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: The relationship between testosterone and cortisol The relationship between calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients Why micronutrients matter for achieving a lean physique Optimal hormone ratios for physique transformation  How does menstrual cycle affect performance Understanding gut health and it's affects on physique Stabilizing hormones as a sign of he...

Dr. Christopher A. Perry, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University at Buffalo, began his fitness journey at Penn State University, where he developed a robust background in Strength & Conditioning leading to 17 years in the industry to date. His academic path, leading through a PhD at Arizona State University, deepened his expertise in Exercise Science & Sports, Sleep & Circadian Rhythms,...

Dr. Nathan Jenkins is the new labs analyst for RAPID Health Optimization. He was previously a tenured professor of exercise science, and has worked for many years as a nutrition coach with over 1000 clients to date. Dr. Jenkins blends evidence-based practices and real-world experience, with academic expertise in lifestyle modification for chronic disease prevention, and a passion for helping clien...

Leonard Marshall is the oldest of seven children from the rural town of Franklin, Louisiana. Hegraduated from Franklin High School in 1979 and attended Louisiana State University (LSU). Heattended LSU from 1979 until he was drafted from LSU in the spring of 1983.  Leonard Marshall was coached by legendary LSU coaches Jerry Stovall and Pete Jenkins. Leonard Marshall played in the NFL for 12 seasons...

Dr. Christopher A. Perry, a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University at Buffalo, began his fitness journey at Penn State University, where he developed a robust background in Strength & Conditioning leading to 17 years in the industry to date. His academic path, leading through a PhD at Arizona State University, deepened his expertise in Exercise Science & Sports, Sleep & Circadian Rhythms,...

Dr. Mitchell Reiter is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in spinal surgery who has been in practice in New Jersey managing patients with spinal disorders for more than 20 years. Dr. Reiter is one of those rare individuals that always knew that he wanted to be a physician. Straight out of high school he entered the prestigious accelerated six-year combined B.S./M.D. Hono...

In this Episode of Barbell Shrugged: How Birth Control can reduce testosterone by 70% Birth controls affects on your physique How to pick the right birth control What are drug induced nutrient depletions  How to best handle menopause and andropause What happens when you do not have a cycle for 5+ years What is wrong with TRT and HRT How heavy metal and toxicity affect your hormones Visit https://r...