Recently in studies
Taking a detailed look at Health & Fitness from all angles.
Looking At : Apr 22, 2012
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : coffee, conditioning, grip, links, nutrition, photography, sleep
Echo Point, Blue Mountains.During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, the Forums and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Looking At ...
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Weekly summary
Tags : links, photography
Binoculars. Photo by Phil Whitehouse.During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, the Forums and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Exercise in Healthy Older Adults
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : conditioning, still got it
Ida Wasserman, hitting the gym at 100.Chris notes two very interesting studies which look at the impact of exercise on older adults - Cardiovascular Aging and Exercise in Healthy Older Adults and Is Regular Exercise a Friend or Foe of...
The Effects of Music Tempo
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Dr Costas Karageorghis.Scott Dunlap over at A Trail Runner's Blog notes the work of Dr Costas Karageorghis on music tempo and exercise. For an overview, head over to the New York Times; for a little more meat, check out the...
Better Sleep, Better Memory
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : sleep
Sleeping dog. Photo by jswieringa.Mark notes a Swiss study which reinforces the idea that sleep aids memory. If you're going to learn a new skill tomorrow, make sure you get a bit of quality shut-eye tonight....
Hunger Can Make You Happy
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Hungry mouse. Photo by pasotraspaso.Via Digg : Livescience notes an interesting study published this month in Nature Neuroscience. The short version? Hunger can make you (well, mice anyway) happy....
Learning to Juggle At Any Age
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : brain, juggling, still got it
Juggling. Photo by jayniebell.Via Just Your Average Joggler : the Journal of Neuroscience noted an interesting study this week, relating to the brain changes associated with learning a new skill (specifically juggling) - particularly for those over 50. If you've...
The Smell of Coffee
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Diet and Nutrition
Tags : coffee
You can almost smell it. Photo by 4thwave.Via the Nutrition Help Blog : Scientific American notes a recent study on the effects of coffee's aroma. It seems that even rats enjoy waking up to the smell of coffee....
All In The Mind?
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Placebo. Photo by purchio.Chris notes another study which looks at the performance-enhancing effects of a placebo. Very interesting....
Extra Sleep Improves Athletic Performance
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : conditioning
Sleeping. Photo by prakhar.Via Conditioning Research : Science Daily notes one of the many sleep vs performance studies taking place at the moment. Although I disagree with the idea of simply increasing the duration of sleep - in my opinion,...
Does Fasting Help Prevent Jetlag?
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : bodyclock
Starved. Photo by Crystl.Via Digg : Reuters notes an interesting study on the benefits of starvation prior to a long flight. Anyone tried it?...
The Number of Fat Cells Remains Constant
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : conditioning
They're happy because they eat lard. Image via SharkeyinColo.Via Conditioning Research : EurekAlert notes another very interesting snippet from the current research on fats : the number of fat cells in a person's body is established during teen years; remaining...
Fat Cells Die and Are Replaced
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : conditioning
Mmmmm. Photo by terren in Virginia.Chris points to a very interesting piece in the NYT, noting a Swedish study on the lifecycle of fat cells. From the article : Every year, whether you are fat or thin, whether you lose...
The Effects of Training in a Fasted State
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : conditioning
No Food. Photo by Mykl Roventine.Chris points to an interesting study on a slightly controversial issue for Intermittent Fasters : what are the effects of training in a fasted state? Definitely something to think about....
The Benefits of Carbohydrate Restriction
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Diet and Nutrition
Tags : conditioning
Carbohydrate Restriction.Chris notes an interesting study [256kb, .pdf] on carbohydrate restriction. Several potential benefits....
Tattoo Vaccination
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Now this is a very interesting idea. From the BBC : Scientists in Germany say that tattoos could be the ideal way of delivering vaccines into the body. The researchers say that in tests undertaken with mice, tattoos were much...
Fasting-Induced Changes
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Tags : conditioning
Chris notes an interesting study on the effects of fasting : Fasting-Induced Changes in the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis (abstract only). It's a fascinating area of research....
Is it Ever Too Cold to Exercise?
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Via SCAQ : Not according to the NY Times. Interesting read....
Stretching May Increase Strength
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : elsewhere
Tags : stretch
Via FitSugar : MSNBC notes another study on the positive aspects of regular stretching - possible strength gains. It's all good....
Feeling Tense? Try a Spot of Meditation
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Yahoo! Health notes an interesting study on mediation - pointing out that short, regular sessions can have real benefits in overall health. What's more, it's relaxing. And no, you don't need to sit out in a field and chant....
Alternate-Day Fasting
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Diet and Nutrition
Tags : conditioning, diet, intermittent fasting
Over at Conditioning Research Chris points to an interesting study on the effects of alternate-day fasting (as per routines such as The QOD Diet) in mice. There's still a way to go before the long-term effects of similar diets are discovered for humans, but it's a great start.
Another look at 2 green tea studies
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Diet and Nutrition
The Got Strength? Blog takes a brief look at two studies on my favourite beverage (other than water) - green tea. Short version - a miracle cure it isn't, but there are health benefits aplenty. Good stuff....
Heart attacks down following smoking ban
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Health
Tags : smoking
This is definitely good news. Researchers at Glasgow University have noted that in the 10 months since Scotland banned smoking in many areas (most notably pubs), the incidence of heart attacks has fallen by a solid 17%. Not bad at...
Spiderman suit may not be that far away
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : Equipment
At least in the ability-to-climb-walls department. A team of Italian scientists is currently looking at ways to use carbon nanotubes (just think of really, really small drinking straws made of carbon) to create a suit which will allow the wearer...
Exercise 'Must Be Tough To Work'
posted by Scott Andrew Bird
Filed in : studies
Via Netscape : It looks as though walking to the car just won't cut it. Exercise 'must be tough to work'....
We do these every Monday, starting 8pm Eastern. This week :
Gymchat 274 - Forskolin For Fat Loss & Muscle Building (Kurtis Frank)
NB : if you'd like to be interviewed in an upcoming discussion, we'd love to hear from you. It's great to find out how other people train. And if you'd like to add your comments and suggestions on the Gymchats in general, you can do that here. Cheers.
ready to get fit? not quite sure where to start?
A dose of Online Personal Training is ideal. Your place, their experience.
As you'd expect, I work with a number of Fitness Professionals myself (both personally, and to research various parts of this site) - including the wonderful Josh Hewett. If you're about to begin your own strength-training journey, swing by his site at :
top-form-fitness.com/online-coaching
Highly recommended. If you're looking to get serious about 'getting in shape', book some time with Josh. Fantastic guy.
setting up a home gym?
If you're getting ready to put together a solid Home Gym (fantastic thing), here's how.
And for more, swing by the full guide. Absolutely free.
also on this site
Gymchat 274 - Forskolin For Fat Loss & Muscle Building (Kurtis Frank)
Forskolin. Yes? No?
Looking At : Jan 25, 2015
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, the Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
835lb Speed Deadlift
Time for a spot of serious speed work with the incredible George Leeman.
Gymchat 273 - 10 Tips for Achieving Balance in Your Life & Your Diet (Aeryon Ashlie)
Moving from where you are to where you want to be.
Looking At : Jan 18, 2015
During the past week we've discussed a number of great links; on Google+, Twitter, the Daily 'Paper' and so on. Here are a few of my favourites.
Winter Workout Routine
What are your winter workouts like?
NB : We first looked at this one in the weekly Strength & Fitness Newsletter (part of the Strength Kit). If you'd like to have it sent to you automatically (free!) each week, just add your email here.
Gymchat 272 - NLP Skills for Fitness Professionals (Jen Mulhall)
There are some valuable skills in there.
images of strength
Want to see (and learn) more Feats of Strength like this? Dive in.
gift buying guide
When your spouse/sibling/friend is ready to 'get in shape' (or they already are), what do you get them?
No matter what sort of training they're in to, we've got a few suggestions. And if you're looking for something specific, we'll help you find out where to get it. Just leave a comment on any of the posts listed below.
There are a number of articles that may help you in your quest. Specifically :
- Grrl's Valentine's Day Wishlist (Kat 'The Mighty Kat' Ricker)
- The Bodyweight Aficionado's Guide to Gear (Jason Kirby)
- Recommended Books and DVDs on Strength-Training & Nutrition (The Straight to the Bar Authors)
- Clothing (Glenn Bird)
's still my favourite.
Now it's your turn. Let us know how you get on, and feel free to share any photographs of what you bought or how it's being used.
Look forward to hearing from you.
strength calendar
Looking for an upcoming competition, or know of one in your area? Why not add it to the spreadsheet.
the writers
There are some superb writers here, looking at the world of strength training from a number of angles. The regulars :
Scott Bird (@scottbird, +Scott Bird)
Writer and Fitness enthusiast
Josh Hewett (@TopFormFitness, +Josh Hewett)
Strongman, Personal Trainer and Host of the Gymchats
Conor Doherty (@sfactoryfitness, +Conor Doherty)
Educator and Personal Trainer
Derek 'D-Rock' Peruo (@DerekPeruoCSCS, +Derek Peruo)
Personal Trainer and Creator of the Renaissance Fitness Supplement Kits
Dean Coulson (@DeanCoulson, +Dean Coulson)
Strength & Conditioning Coach and Martial Artist
Kat
'The Mighty Kat' Ricker (+Kat Ricker)
Bodybuilder and Writer
Jedd
'Napalm' Johnson (@jeddjohnson, +Jedd Johnson)
Grip champion and Strongman
NB : It's a big team - full list here.
In addition, articles are submitted from across the globe. Got a piece you'd like to share? Let us know.
community
talking about If you tweet a lot about fitness and would love to be on this list, let me know.
love your grip work?
Check out The Grip Authority. Fantastic site.
want to help out?
As you've doubtless noticed, in addition to the main site is a Community on Google+, Facebook and Twitter. Wherever you are, a daily dose of strength isn't all that far away.
To help run all of these sites, we're on the lookout for several additional Moderators. To welcome new community members, bring up new items to discuss and generally keep the conversations on track.
If you're already spending a bit of time at any of the above sites, and would like to offer your services as a Moderator, just drop us a line. And thanks for that, it really is appreciated.
in the wild
It’s always great to see how other people train.
If you’d like to send in a photo of yourself in action (wearing one of the Straight to the Bar Shirts of course - the latest design is here), just upload it somewhere and send us a link. Cheers.
the future of fitness
Over the years we’ve looked at the fitness industry from a number of angles - discussing the history, present approaches and potential future trends involved. Fascinating areas.
When it comes to the last part - discussing potential future trends - things get a little, well, unusual. If it’s an interest you share, or you just want to find out the types of things we think are likely, check out the posts tagged ‘Futurism’. And of course, Gymchat 224 (Roundtable) - The Future of Fitness. Superb discussion.
checking out
Zen Mind, Strong Body
Zen Mind, Strong Body.This looks great. Zen Mind, Strong Body is an insight to the training philosophy driving the incredible Al Kavadlo; in the form of a number of articles he's written over the years. Really looking forward to it. I'll share a few thoughts once I've finished it here; in the meantime, a brief comment from none other than Paul Wade : Zen Mind, Strong Body expertly covers the methods, the moves, the nutrition, the equipment, the benefits, the philosophy and even the culture of bodyweight training. If you are a newbie uncertain about whether to explore bodyweight, or an advanced athlete looking for a new take on the most ancient conditioning method, this is now the definitive go-to book. Good stuff. Al Kavadlo's Zen Mind, Strong Body. »»
If you're new to the world of nail bending, this is the perfect book to get. It'll show you the exact techniques you'll need to get started right away. Written by world-class bender Jedd Johnson.
The Diesel Crew's Card Tearing eBook
This is a fantastic book. If you've ever considered learning this incredible strength feat, the Card Tearing eBook is the perfect place to start. Love it.
If you ever wake up with that 'just run over by a truck' feeling, you need a copy of Tim Hull's Functional Correction Manual. Not only will it help you to locate and repair the problem, it'll help prevent it happening in the future.
When it comes to body transformation - whether that's an increase in strength, packing on a bit of muscle or losing a bit of excess fat - this is the perfect place to start. Dr Berardi's Precision Nutrition.
This is a fantastic book. As Josh explains, it superbly shows what's going on while you train. Love it.
101 Fitness Myths [Kindle Edition]
A superb combination of fitness mythbusting and no-nonsense advice. If you're not quite sure where to start, grab this.
The Art of Expressing the Human Body
If you've ever watched a Bruce Lee film and marveled at his strength, speed, agility, endurance, flexibility or muscularity, this book should take pride of place in your collection. Unlike many other writings covering everything from Lee's training methods to nutrition, this book is based not on the recollections of people around him; but on Lee's own notes. Brilliant.
For a full list of what we're reading at the moment (training-related and otherwise), join us on Goodreads. And for a cut-down list showing only the ones we recommend, swing by the Recommended Books & DVDs page. See you there.