Roadtrip Research

Why do women experience muscle decline earlier than men—and what role do hormones play? In this episode, we unpack new research mapping how female neuromuscular function changes from age 18 to 80, spotlighting the sharp drop-off that begins around menopause. Discover how age, hormones like oestradiol and progesterone, muscle composition, and lifestyle factors interact to shape women’s physical str...

Why do some workouts leave you sore for days, while others don’t? In this episode, we dive into new research comparing single-joint vs. multi-joint exercises and their impact on recovery, muscle swelling, and performance. You’ll learn: • Which exercises cause more functional fatigue • How muscle damage varies between the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis • Why you might feel recovered before you...

Can a single year of heavy resistance training keep older adults strong for years to come? In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research from the LISA study, which followed retirees for four years after just one year of supervised heavy training. The results are powerful: participants who lifted heavy maintained their leg strength and lean muscle mass, while others declined. Even more surpri...

In this episode we dive into the latest evidence from a 2025 meta-analysis examining how exercise—both aerobic and resistance—can be a powerful tool in treating depression and anxiety. Discover why the type of movement might matter more for anxiety, how even sub-guideline exercise levels make a difference, and why physical activity remains underutilised in mainstream mental health care. We unpack...

What if the key to healing a stubborn tendon injury isn’t just in the tendon—but in the brain? In this episode, we dive into cutting-edge research that flips traditional tendinopathy rehab on its head. We explore why eccentric-heavy protocols often fail, how cortical inhibition sabotages recovery, and what actually works to stimulate tendon healing. From isometric holds that rewire the nervous sys...

Season 2 is here. Now that we are done covering some of the more common topics, we plan to dive into some more detailed, nuanced and recent research. Episode 18 - Re-examining Loading Recommendations for Muscle Growth. Are the old gym rules holding you back? In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking re-examination of the repetition continuum from Schoenfeld and colleagues, challenging the long-...

In this episode, we dive into the Australian Association for Exercise and Sports Science’s position statement on Exercise and Hypertension, unpacking how movement can be a powerful prescription for one of the world’s leading causes of preventable death. We’ll explore the science behind aerobic and resistance training for blood pressure control, why allied health professionals (not just doctors) pl...

In this episode, we dive into a cornerstone publication that tackles one of the biggest barriers to effective physical activity promotion: inconsistent terminology. Join us as we unpack the 2010 position statement by Norton, Norton, and Sadgrove, which calls for a universal system to describe exercise intensity. We explore the proposed five-level intensity framework—sedentary, light, moderate, vig...

In this episode owe break down the latest Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) position statement on exercise training for people living with chronic heart failure (CHF). Join us as we explore how evidence-based aerobic and resistance training can reverse maladaptations, improve functional capacity, and potentially reduce mortality and hospitalisations. We’ll cover key recommendations, contr...

Is exercise the key to managing osteoarthritis pain? In this episode, we unpack the 2011 review by Bennell and Hinman on the role of exercise in treating hip and knee OA. Discover how aerobic, strengthening, aquatic, and Tai Chi-based exercises can reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life—regardless of OA severity. We explore evidence-based strategies for individualised exercise...

Can people with asthma safely exercise—and even thrive in sport? In this episode, we explore the Australian Association for Exercise and Sports Science position statement on exercise and asthma. We unpack the role of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB), why swimming is often ideal, and how to tailor safe, effective exercise programs for individuals with asthma. You’ll learn about pre-exerci...

Can exercise really help prevent and manage type 2 diabetes? In this episode, we break down the Exercise & Sport Science Australia (ESSA) position statement on exercise prescription for type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes. We cover how much, how often, and what type of training is recommended—including aerobic, resistance, and combined approaches—and how intensity matters more than duration for impro...

How can exercise help people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD)? In this episode, we unpack the ESSA position statement on exercise and CKD, highlighting how aerobic and resistance training can improve cardiorespiratory fitness, muscle strength, blood pressure, quality of life, and more. We also explore practical considerations for prescribing exercise, including safety during haemodialysis,...

Spinal cord injury (SCI) presents unique challenges for maintaining health and fitness, often leading to increased sedentary behaviour and secondary health complications. In this episode, we break down the ESSA position statement on exercise for adults with SCI, covering aerobic, strength, and flexibility training recommendations tailored to this population. Learn how exercise improves cardiovascu...

Osteoporosis is a silent but serious condition affecting bone strength and increasing fracture risk. In this episode, we explore the ESSA position statement on exercise for osteoporosis, breaking down the best strategies to build and maintain bone health at any age. Learn why walking alone isn’t enough, how impact activities and progressive resistance training (PRT) can stimulate bone growth, and...

Exercise is more than just movement—it’s medicine, especially in cancer care. In this episode, we break down the ESSA position statement on exercise medicine in cancer management, exploring the growing evidence behind exercise as a powerful tool before, during, and after treatment. From reducing side effects to enhancing treatment outcomes and improving quality of life, we discuss the importance o...

Exercise is one of the most powerful tools in preventing type 2 diabetes—but are you using it effectively? In this episode, we dive into the ESSA position statement on prediabetes screening and management in Australia, focusing on the role of physical activity. Learn how aerobic and resistance training can improve insulin sensitivity, support weight management, and reduce cardiovascular risk. We’l...

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a leading cause of disability and death, affecting millions worldwide. But did you know that exercise is one of the most effective treatments for managing symptoms and improving quality of life? In this episode, we break down the latest Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) position statement on exercise for COPD. We’ll explore how structured ex...

Can people with bone metastases safely exercise? The International Bone Metastases Exercise Working Group (IBMEWG) says yes—with the right approach. In this episode, we dive into the latest expert recommendations on exercise programming for individuals with bone metastases. We’ll explore the importance of risk assessment, medical team collaboration, and specialised exercise prescriptions tailored...

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a growing health concern, and exercise plays a key role in its management. In this episode, we explore the latest position statement on exercise for MAFLD, including the shift from NAFLD to MAFLD, the link between metabolic dysfunction and liver disease, and the benefits of exercise for liver health and cardiometabolic risk factors. W...

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and intermittent claudication can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, but exercise is a powerful tool for managing symptoms and improving overall health. In this episode, we break down the latest Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) position statement on exercise prescription for PAD. We’ll explore the benefits of supervised exercise thera...

In this episode, we delve into the latest position statement from Exercise and Sports Science Australia on using exercise to manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Structured exercise programs are highlighted as a first-line strategy due to their therapeutic benefits. We discuss the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and clinical management of PCOS, while providing exercise professionals with evidence-...

Falls are a major health concern for older Australians, often leading to injury, loss of independence, and rising healthcare costs. In this episode, we explore the power of exercise - especially functional balance and strength training - a key strategy for fall prevention. Join us as we break down the latest evidence on how to make exercise effective, progressive, and tailored to individual risk l...