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Question
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blackrt: March 29 2006
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Has anyone tried Tribulus?
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Just looking for reliable unbaised reviews. Any input would be appreciated.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 01 2006
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in conjunction wither other herbs such as Tongkat Ali, Muira Pauma, avena sativa and if you have high DHT levels Saw Palmetto.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Manuel ARG: April 02 2006
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Experiences on Malhers Mod EDT
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Hi, I was wondering if anyone had had any experience with Mike's Modified EDT program for serious strength increses, and what was the result. I'm planning on following it for a month or two, wanted some info on the subject as to what results to expect and those that others had had.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 02 2006
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Just to be clear, EDT is Coach Charles Staley's program. I just modified it for kettlebells. For a clearer understanding of EDT, get Coach Staley's book and DVD at www.edtsecrets.com Great stuff
Bottom line is that high volume programs with high intensity and a focus on compound exercises rock for putting on size. This is assuming that you diet is adequate, that your post workout nutrition is solid and that you are getting 8 hours of deep sleep every night. Also, do not expect to make progress with light kettlebells (anything below the 70s for a man over 175lbs). You need to use heavy bells to make progress.
Also, if you really want to make progress, you should have all of your anabolic hormones measured before. T (free and total) IGF-1, DHEA etc. If your levels suck, EDT is not a good place to start as the intensity will deplete you further.
If you are doing everything right, you should be able to add 5lbs of muscle (talking primarily muscle here not 5lbs period). While 5lbs may not sound like much, especially after reading programs in BB magazines that promise 30lbs in 30 days! it is a reasonable goal for a natural athlete that will have a noticeable impact on your physique and strength. Also, muscle that is built over long periods is more likely to stick around. Gradually getting to 215 for example is better than getting there fast.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Manuel ARG: April 02 2006
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Experiences on Malhers Mod EDT
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Hi, I was wondering if anyone had had any experience with Mike's Modified EDT program for serious strength increses, and what was the result. I'm planning on following it for a month or two, wanted some info on the subject as to what results to expect and those that others had had.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 02 2006
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which means, proper rest, training with heavy bells (at least 70s) proper diet, and optimal anabolic hormones: T and GH specifically.
Most trainees do not make gains because the screw up on all of the above or at least two of the areas. How many people gave had their blood work done? Very few which is a real shame. Always amazing to me that people will spend a ton of money on supplements etc and never get real intell on their physiology.
Frankly you should know what your numbers are before starting any program. Get them done before EDT then two months later. If T and GH went up, you did it right.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Manuel ARG: April 02 2006
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Experiences on Malhers Mod EDT
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Hi, I was wondering if anyone had had any experience with Mike's Modified EDT program for serious strength increses, and what was the result. I'm planning on following it for a month or two, wanted some info on the subject as to what results to expect and those that others had had.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 03 2006
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I have to laugh everytime a trainee worries about putting on size. First, it is not easy for 98% of the population to put on size. Worrying about getting too big is like worrying about making two much money. It rarely happens by accident. With kettlebells it is even less likely unless you use 88s and above for all of your work.
Even while training with 88s and 105s most of the time I have to really work if I want to get bigger than I am now (which I do not).
Regardless, if you are really paranoid, then do high frequency instead which is better for pure strength:
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/mahler75.htm
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Question
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Manuel ARG: April 02 2006
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Experiences on Malhers Mod EDT
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Hi, I was wondering if anyone had had any experience with Mike's Modified EDT program for serious strength increses, and what was the result. I'm planning on following it for a month or two, wanted some info on the subject as to what results to expect and those that others had had.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 03 2006
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Sluggish Thyroid can impede fat loss and many sugar cravings come from Candida which can slow weight loss as well. The bad news is that the test for Candida is a stool test which is never much fun, but important.
It is possible to have good T levels and high E as well. Lowering E does not necessarily increase T. The blood work will provide a great deal of info that can have a tremendous impact on training.
Great work with the kettlebells and keep it up. Get some 53lb bells soon.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Manuel ARG: April 02 2006
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Experiences on Malhers Mod EDT
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Hi, I was wondering if anyone had had any experience with Mike's Modified EDT program for serious strength increses, and what was the result. I'm planning on following it for a month or two, wanted some info on the subject as to what results to expect and those that others had had.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 02 2006
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that would be after two to three months of EDT for someone that has never tried it before. I really do not think that EDT should be done for more than 3 months out of every year. Also, of course you are not going to get the same benefits from EDT everytime you try it. First time will be great, next few times will not be as great. Just like starting any new program.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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kbpaul: April 02 2006
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Att: Mike Mahler,I'm currently wokingout w/50lb kb. if I were to start
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doing doubles (two kb's at the same time) what weight do you suggest? I do believe I'm ready for a heaver kb as far as doing one at a time. I might make a 70 lb kb this week. When I start doing doubles I'll buy them so they are the exact same size and shape.
Thanks....Paul
Oh yeah, when you do your workshop here in Az, do you let people to watch? If so, do you charge them?
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 03 2006
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always exercises that you can do to work into using them. For example, Floor presses instead of mil presses, one-arm chest press on a stability ball etc. Suitcase Squats instead of Front squats.
As for the AZ seminar it is only for paying participants. We still have space so sign up and come on out. It will be worth every penny and then some.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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nutrovitasub: April 03 2006
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Consider About Phosphatidyl Serine 100
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Phosphatidyl serine (PS) is a key human brain phospholipid and is essential for normal neuron structure and function. It is an important constituent of nerve cell membranes, which allow us to conduct electrical impulses, assisting communication from one nerve cell to another. This contributes to healthy cognitive function, including maintaining concentration.
Phosphatidyl serine (PS) is one of the key human brain phospholipids and is essential for normal neuron structure and function. PS, along with other essential fatty acids, may also play a critical role in cognitive function, including maintaining concentration and memory.
But remember one thing that If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product
For Phosphatidyl Serine 100 Products :
Phosphatidyl Serine 100 :
http://www.nutrovita.com/search.asp?keyword=Phosphatidyl+Serine+100+
For More Information, Articles
http://www.nutrovita.com
Nutrovita.com
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 06 2006
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the only way to know if it is working is to have your cortisol levels checked (this is a saliva test) and then get it measure again in a month or two. Personally, I sleep better when I take PS and ZMA before sleep and it does help me unwind after workouts. The workouts I do tax the CNS so a serving of Biotest's powerdrive and PS after working is a nice combo.
One thing to keep in mind is that I get 99% of the supplements that I take for free. If I had to pay for everything, I would stick with the basics such as protein powder, multi vitamin, vitamin C, creatine etc.
Basically with PS the more stress you are under the more is is useful. People that stress out easily by nature, will notice more of a benefit than people that are already laid back. Saliva test determines which one you are althought it is not hard to determine that on you own.
Also, lowering cortisol is not always a good thing. You want it to be fairly high in the morning as that is what gets you going to get things done. However, as the day goes on, it should taper off.
Mine is fairly high in the morning when I get up and I am active with my business. Then it goes down gradually and goes up again right before I workout. This is a good thing. Lowering cortisol before a workout will lover strength. It is after the workout that it is useful to help with recovery.
Basically, the saliva test will show you at what points in the day you are stressed. If it is at night before bed, then that is a great time to take PS etc.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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nutrovitasub: April 03 2006
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Consider About Phosphatidyl Serine 100
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Phosphatidyl serine (PS) is a key human brain phospholipid and is essential for normal neuron structure and function. It is an important constituent of nerve cell membranes, which allow us to conduct electrical impulses, assisting communication from one nerve cell to another. This contributes to healthy cognitive function, including maintaining concentration.
Phosphatidyl serine (PS) is one of the key human brain phospholipids and is essential for normal neuron structure and function. PS, along with other essential fatty acids, may also play a critical role in cognitive function, including maintaining concentration and memory.
But remember one thing that If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product
For Phosphatidyl Serine 100 Products :
Phosphatidyl Serine 100 :
http://www.nutrovita.com/search.asp?keyword=Phosphatidyl+Serine+100
For More Information, Articles
http://www.nutrovita.com
Nutrovita.com
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 03 2006
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For those interesed in PS, here is the best product at the best price below. Unlike our poster here I do not make a dime of this recommendation:
I like taking one tab after workouts and one before bedtime on workout days. Non workout days, one before bed only. At 550mg per tab it is the best deal by far. Most companies only have 100mg per cap.
Mike Mahler
http://www.prosource.net/product.jsp?path=-1%7C6477&id=249
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Question
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Mike Johnson, RKC: April 03 2006
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6 weeks of 5x5 results and observations (kind of long)
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Last week I finished up on 6 weeks of the 5x5 Kettlebell program. I initially started on the Force Recon workout but dropped the conditioning day and replaced the snatches with 1 leg deadlifts after two weeks. I trained on Monday and Friday and threw in HOC workout once in a while on Wednesdays. My end results are as follows...
Start: Body Weight 186 pounds
Strict Military Press 2/24kg x 5x5
Front Squat 2/28kg x 5x4
TSC Pull-up 20kg x 5x5
1 leg DL 2/16kg x 5x5
Finish: Body weight 193 pounds
See-Saw press 2/28kg x 5x5 (today Clean & Press 2/28kg x 3x3)
Front Squat 2/28kg x 5x5 & 3x6 (Today 2/32kg x 3x3)
TSC Pull-up 24kg x 5,4,4,4,3
1 Leg DL 2/20kg x 5x5, then ended the cycle with 2/24kg 3x3
My training log reflects my exact workouts. As far as nutrition goes I added between 600-700 calories a day during this period. It wasn't hard. I drank 2 servings of choloate milk after every workout, including my 3x a week BJJ sessions. I made my evening and pre-workout protien shakes with 2% milk instead of water, added an extra egg and an extra slice of turkey bacon to breakfast, an extra cup of green tea a day (no green tea does not have any calories, but the table spoon of raw honey I add does), and was a little looser with my diet from time to time. I also threw in an extra protien shake whenever I woke up in the middle of the night.
Observations:
1) I couldn't go hard on the 5x5 workout on all 5 drills without feeling destroyed at the end, so I quickly changed something. I followed some of Pavels advice and alternated between harder and lighter drills. (hard on the See-Saw press then half the reps on the pull-ups. Same for the other drills, then alternated the next workout) The reduced volume helped a little but I was still feeling a bit burned out by the end of the workout. So I decided to cut the reps and the intensity by working with one size smaller KBs on the light drills. This was the ticket to getting 5 sets on each drill without feeling destroyed.
2) I'm sure my gains would have been even better if I would have dropped the conditioning workouts all together and wasn't training BJJ, but that's just not acceptable for me. I know these workouts slowed my recovery as my legs always felt heavy during my joint mobility warm-ups. I also noticed my "mat wind" slowly dimishing by the end of the cycle. I had to pace myself better, which is not my typical game plan of keeping constant pressure on my opponent to outwork him. But it's a game of give and take and you just can't have it all. On the up side I did get some comments on how much stronger I felt while rolling, even though that's kind of the opposite you want your jiu-jitsu to be.
3) I dropped the snatches for 1 leg deadlifts after the second week. I always felt these in my hamstrings the next day. However, during today's snatch work and during cleans I noticed my hip snap had dimished quite a bit. Everything felt slow (except my breathing afterward) and labored. I'm sure that will come back up quickly though.
4) I probably could have maximized my gains by taking this week off, but I'm going to the April RKC so I'll save the vacation week for after the RKC.
5) I observed mucular improvements through my shoulders, upper thighs, and upper back. I wish I would have taken some before measurements, but I do know my jeans don't fit any tighter in the waist and I haven't had to adjust my gun belt.
The next couple weeks I'm doing a reduced volume 3x3 workout, focusing on improving the speed of each lift (as they all felt real slow today), and alternate it with a HOC workout to get my conditioning and hip snap back up. I'm also working TGU's and windmills back into my training to prep for the RKC.
Thanks for reading.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 03 2006
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Very impressive gains and you are no longer the skinny ripped guy ;-) I agree that 5x5 for several exercises in one workout is pretty hard. I like how you alternated intensity for each exercise. I think that 3x3 will be a welcome change of pace.
Have fun on April
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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kbpaul: April 05 2006
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Anyone else find DEAD snatches easier than SWING snatches?
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I think DEAD snatches are actually harder on my whole body, but when doing SWING snatches, my lower back tightens up so much that it is almost too much to finish the workout. I'm guessing that you might say that I need to do more swings to get used to that, but I do a lot of swings and...no problems. It's the speed that the KB is coming down during the SWING snatch that gets me. What do you think?
Thanks...Paul
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 05 2006
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At least in my case. I find that with the 105lb bell for example, I usually take the bell to one spot and then reverse quickly rather than swing it back between my feet which throws me off balance. For other bells 88 and below I like the swing snatch for high reps.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Shawn M: April 05 2006
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Mike Mahler will the MMA DVD be available again?? (n/m)
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no message
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 05 2006
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So I am probably going to discontinue the MMA DVD and just offer the Speed one in its place which I feel is a superior product. The mma one was my first DVD and I was just getting used to being in front of the camera at the time. OF course, filming it at 6am at Great falls park in Northern VA in November did not help much either ;-)
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Krajisnik: April 09 2006
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Clean & Press? Military Press vs. Side Press?
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Firstly, is the clean & press a valid exercise or should we avoid it? Pavel recommends kettlebell c&p's in BB. Does this also stand for barbell c&p's?
Secondly, which is the more effective exercise, the side press or the military press (assuming perfect form in both)?
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 09 2006
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No need to choose one of the other and none are more effective than the other. There is no need to make a choice. Start with the clean and press, when you hit a plateau there, switch to the side press for a while, then go back to the clean and press. The side press will allow you to handle more weight than a one-arm mil press.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Josh Henkin: April 10 2006
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Mahler Seminar
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I just wanted to thank Mike for a great seminar this past weekend in Phoenix. It was a pleasure to teach with you and I got some great tips along the way as well. The enthusiasm everyone had for the day was very inspiring and I was glad that we could really motivate some great people.
I am also really excited that we had the opportunity to film the whole day and can't wait to share the day with everyone else. Thank you Mike, it was a great experience!
Josh Henkin
www.sandbagexercises.com
www.ifsstrength.com
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 10 2006
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great working with you and I cannot wait to see the DVD. No doubt our seminar on DVD will sell very well. Your Sandbag section was bad ass and I cannot wait to get those exercises into my program this week.
Talk to you soon
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Steve Maxwell: April 11 2006
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Steve, Zak and DC Maxwell, back from LA with BJJ Pan AM medals
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All of our efforts came to fruition over the weekend as Team Maxercise competed in the Brazilian Jiujitsu Pan -American Championships this weekend. We fielded a strong team and came away with 4 golds, 3 silvers and 5 bronze.
Everyones conditioning was excellent which really helped with confidence. Maxercise has established itself as one of the top east coast jiujitsu and submission wrestling schools. It was the first and oldest school of it's kind in the eastern US. My son Zak, won his second Pan-Am championship in the teenage division and I won my 6th title in the Senior Black belt division. My wife DC took a bronze in the womansblack belt feather weight class. She lost to a really tough pro fighter from Japan in the semi-finals. This girl belongs to a group of women who are known as the Smack Down Girls and are famous in Japan in MMA, wrestling and jiujitsu. We're all feeling the jet lag, but are already preparing for the upcomming Grapplers Quest Tourney in May.
Steve Maxwell
http://www.maxercise.com
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 11 2006
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not taking a shower for a week was a sure fire strategy to win all of your fights ;-) Great work and good to see you, DC, and Zak. Congrats to Zak and DC as well. You two are great parents.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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berks: April 14 2006
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estrogen inhibitor
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what do you guys think of taking estrogen inhibitors (just on its own, no juice)
I thought about it a while ago to increase my natural testesterone. and now, I would say its unatural, but you do hear things like how much more estrogen we ingest now a days, ie: estrogen in beef, tap water, plastics and so forth. Are we getting to much estrogen? could that be a contribution to todays North American obesity problem?
I understand how it would help out athleticaly. but as males we're suposed to have some estrogen right? I would assume its unhealthy to not have any estrogen at all.
I just came across warriordiet.com that sells their anti-aromatase product.
what do you guys think?
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 14 2006
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You should know what your estradiol levels are before considering any anti-estrogen products. Otherwise, you are wasting time and money on something you may not need. Also, you can get the work done before taking something and 4 months later to see if you are actually benefiting. An estradiol level over 30 on a scale of 1-45 is high and should be addressed.
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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USMC Ammo: April 14 2006
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Acute shoulder pain (side press); deadlift problems
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Good evening all,
Recently began PTP (basic step cycle, 2x5 side press, 2x5 deadlift). Felt ok for the first week or so, but I'm starting to have problems.
One, the side presses are causing an acute, sharp pain deep in my right shoulder. I feel it right before and at lockout; it is followed by a dull pain that comes and goes. Only have 2 5 pound plates on the bar.
Two, deadlifts are resulting in incredible soreness in my lower back, most pointedly at the coccyx (tailbone) and surrounding area. To the best of my knowledge I'm using proper form (look up, sit back, tight triceps, pull back, drive through, no lowering the bar slowly). At first the soreness lasted only for an hour or so; now I'm waking up in the morning with a dull pain. I'm using 235 on the bar.
Thanks for any replies/suggestions.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 14 2006
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a combination of a technique flaw and a scar tissue build up. I would make an appointment with an ART person in your area. Go to www.activerelease.com
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Steve Cotter: April 17 2006
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Watched Mendelson BP 1,008 lbs. x 3
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I was up in L.A. this weekend. I picked up Mike Mahler and the two of us headed over to Scot Mendelson's gym in the valley.
As many of you know, Mendelson is the WR holder in the Bench Press, both raw and with shirt. His current record is 1,0008 lb with a bench shirt.
Mike and I demonstrated KB training to Scot and some of his clients. They were very impressed and the 3 of us (Mike, Scot and I) are going to be working together later in the year to introduce KB training to Scot and his clientele.
After Mike and I through the KBs around for awhile Scot went into his BP workout. He said he would be working up to 1,008 that day.
Since we had never witnessed anyone ever move that much weight (no one aside from Scot ever has), we decided to hang out for a while and watch.
After some shirtless warm-up sets (he warmed up with 661), Scot put his shirt on and did 1 set of 1,008 for 3 reps, and another set of 1,008 for 2 reps. These were done off of 2 boards.
It was interesting to see. As I was picking Scot's brain he mentioned that BP at his level is "all mental". He was also smart (and humble) enough to say that he is strong in that groove, but if he is taken out of his groove (such as with KB training) then he is not so strong.
Scot is actually a really nice guy and it is cool that even at his WR level, he treated Mike and I with a lot of respect and recognized that he can benefit a lot from working with us.
Not something you see everyday.
Steve
http://www.fullkontact.com
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 17 2006
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Watching Scott knock off 1000lbs for reps was surreal to say the least. I agree with Steve, Scott was very cool and respecful. It will be awesome when we do a seminar with him in LA which is in the works now.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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phildawg_80: April 17 2006
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Am I ready for the Beast?
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I can double push press the Bulldogs twice
Same thing for jerks
Can't MP the Bulldog but can double press the 70's 5 times
I can double swing the BDs 12 times chest level high
Can front squat with one BD but NOT double squat
Double Windmill no problem
1arm floor press no problem but can't double floor press
Snatch no problem (5 per arm working sets)
Should I wait until I get a little stronger and can press the
BD, double squat, etc. or should I go ahead and get the Beast
to help me in my strength gains? Any advice appreciated.
In training
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 17 2006
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You could easily just work with what you have now and continue to get a lot stronger. If you want a new and fun challenge, get the 105lb bell. You should be able to do the following with it:
Suitcase squats
One-arm and two-arm swings (two arms on one bell)
One-arm Windmill
Possibly one-arm floor press
You can use my taming the bulldog article to get it in your program.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com/articles.html
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Question
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TPerruso: April 18 2006
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Resilient in the mail and Mike Mahlers newsletter...
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I have been so dogged by injuries and I know it's because I'm not training smart. I got Mike Mahler's newsletter and read one of the articles about and mistakes in training and I am a huge offender of going full bore every workout. I know it's stupid. Probably why I keep getting hurt. Right now I have two tweaked shoulders and two tweaked elbows. All because I went crazy on that DOE ManMaker workout. I just kept increasing reps for the snatches and squats when I felt I needed to. Probably too soon. Again stupid. Looking foreward to watching (Resilient) and getting my head straight and body healed up. Much thanks to Mike Mahler for the newsletters ( I want to save up some dough to purchase your service before I ship out to FLETC, hope, hope)and Pavel and everyone else who has given me advice posts.
I'll let ya know how I feel soon.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 18 2006
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have been guilty of going overboard with training. There is a fine line between great training progress and overtraining. Easy to cross the line, especially when trainees are addicted tot he stimulus of training. I have been there many times.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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JT_76: April 19 2006
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Another take on the steroid issue for those interested
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Chris Shugart from T-Nation interviewed 2 doctors and a nurse who use steroids and they have quite a different perspective on the issue than what the media filter would lead us to believe.
I'm not advocating their usage or saying that there are no dangers, my position is simply that they're not nearly as bad as what we're told by the mainstream press and by people who's friend of a friend heard about a guy who had a heart attack supposedly from using them.
It just always amazes me when I hear the amount of misinformation that is passed around and how quickly people latch on to the popular belief without looking any further. Anyway, I'm just ranting because of another media story I heard. Here's the article for those who want to check it out
http://www.t-nation.com/readTopic.do?id=459781
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 19 2006
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taking Testosterone and GH can be very benefical after a certain age and based on one's genetics. If you have low T and GH forget about feeling good. In my opinion the first thing that Doctor's should check when one reports depression, is T levels. If T is low, you will feel like crap. No question about that. If IGF-1 is low you will not recover well from workouts. If cortisol is high, T and GH will most likely be low.
I agree that steriods should be the last resort after all else has failed. Most people can up their numbers a lot with increasing sleep, modifying training and diet, and handling stress better. This takes a while and involves some trial and error. Unfortunately, we live in an impatient society in which people want instant gratification. Thus, it is my opinion that more and more steroid use will occur in the near future.
I have helped some of my clients up their numbers naturally with training modifications, improving sleep, and some supplement recommendations. My own IGF-1 went from 182ng/dl to 290ng/dl naturally. I just had my blood work taken again yesterday and cannot wait to see the results. I am feeling great now and I bet my T and GH are even better than last time.
One thing is for sure is that everyone should have the levels checked. Do the tests that I recommend in this article below:
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com/sexhormones.html
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Question
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JT_76: April 19 2006
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Another take on the steroid issue for those interested
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Chris Shugart from T-Nation interviewed 2 doctors and a nurse who use steroids and they have quite a different perspective on the issue than what the media filter would lead us to believe.
I'm not advocating their usage or saying that there are no dangers, my position is simply that they're not nearly as bad as what we're told by the mainstream press and by people who's friend of a friend heard about a guy who had a heart attack supposedly from using them.
It just always amazes me when I hear the amount of misinformation that is passed around and how quickly people latch on to the popular belief without looking any further. Anyway, I'm just ranting because of another media story I heard. Here's the article for those who want to check it out
http://www.t-nation.com/readTopic.do?id=459781
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 19 2006
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For Many athletes high volume work will deplete T and GH. Really depends on your individual recovery abilities and physiology. The only way to know for sure is to get blood work done before and after a 6 week phase. Of course there is more to it than training. Stresses in your life, poor sleep, crappy diet, and much more all come into the equation. One thing is for sure is that if your IGF-1 and T (free and total) are low, forget about high volume training.
Bottom line is that you should have your blood work checked and modify training accordingly. If you are working out hard and your levels are low you have your answer. If they are optimal then you know that what you are doing is working.
This is why I encourge my online clients to get blood work done. Comes in handy when I design programs. For more info, click below
http://www.mikemahler.com/services.html
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Question
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Royce: April 20 2006
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Question for Mike Mahler
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what effect would diabetes have on sex hormones, I am unfortunately displaying some of the symptoms of diabetes. It is not diagnosed, but I bought a blood sugar monitor and have had a few high readings exactly when i am not feeling good. Highest reading was 180. I realize this is an extremely primitive test for diabetes as it was not under controlled circumstances and it was not a fasting test. But I could pinpoint the times I have not felt right and my blood glucose was elevated every time.
The sad thing is this is exactly what i am trying to aviod, it runs in my family.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 20 2006
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is that people with diabetes probably have low IGF-1. If you blood sugar is high, GH is low. I am not sure how it affects Testosterone and DHEA. My guess is not favorably. Get with a good anti-aging DOc in your area. Or do a consult with Dr Wong. His site is below:
http://www.totalityofbeing.com
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Question
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powerlifter54: April 20 2006
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So you think the leg press is cool?
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Somebody stop her before she speaks again...
400 pounds is nuthin
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 20 2006
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Mine is mahler25@yahoo.com. I wanted to see if you are interested in writing a training tip for my newsletter. Just a few paragarphs will do. It goes out to 7300 people so we can plug your program design services etc.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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alabamaalex: April 20 2006
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Lat function question
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Does anyone know how exactly lat contraction effects presses?
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 20 2006
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If you rely on the shoulders for pressing you will never be able to work into heavy weights. The lats stabilize and the triceps do a lot of the work. Executed properly, the lats do what a machine does when you do machine shoulder presses. Keeps everything in track for maximum efficiency.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Haakon_87: April 21 2006
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Growth hormones and cardio
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Yesterday I read an article by Mike Mahler that said that one can increase growth hormones in the body by training high intensity cardio. Let's say I follow the tabata method (5 min. warm up, 4 min. high intensity cardio, 20 seconds running and 10 seconds rest, 4 min cool down). How often should I train high intensity cardio if I want to gain muscle. I currently follow the bear program.
http://www.mikemahler.com/newsletter/94.html
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 21 2006
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Second, exercise only increases GH during the workout and for a short time afterwords. If you really want to increase IGF-1, get nine hours of deep sleep every night and do not overtrain. Same goes for Testostoerone. Do not both trying to increase either if you do not where you are at.
My point is to train in a way that optimizes T and GH and does not deplete either. Even if you increase both, your receptors may not pick up either so it can get complicated. Detailed blood work turnes conjecture into science so get it done.
Without knowing your numbers, sleeping patterns, diet etc I cannot say for sure what is best for you. A general recommendation is to stat with two strength sessions per week and two high intensity cardio such as the Tabata protocol.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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JT_76: April 21 2006
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? for Mike Mahler
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Yesterday you posted a link to Dr. Wong's website (totalityofbeing.com) which seems like a good source of info. Can you give a little background info on him? I know you're not going to vouch for someone or something that is b.s. but I couldn't find much info about him on his site and with the claims he makes about vitalzym (and it's cost) I just wondered what you have to say about him and his research. Thanks for any information you can provide.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 21 2006
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Dr Wong had a PH.D in Sports Medicine and is very well versed in alternative medicine, traditional medicine and the pros and cons of each. He is a very ethical and generous guy. My mom has high blood pressure and he emailed me a great deal of info that I am sure took him quite a while to put together to help her out. Often, I have emailed him for advice for my clients and family members, and myself and he has always been very generous and never asked for a dime. Recently I sent him a nice check to thank him for his generousity. The info he provides is worth paying for. I have many people that email me daily for free info which I do not like as I do not like having my time taken advantage of. I provide enough free info on my site and via my newsletters.
He has never made a recommendation to me that did not work. that is very rare in this industry, esepcially with regards to supplements. I am a big fan of his "Systemic Enzyme" product and have been using it for almost a year now. Great for reducing inflammaton and soreness. By the way, read the articles on his site for more info.
Also, I like the fact that he knows a lot about strength training and how to apply it properly. He is on the same page as Pavel and other top notch coaches. I do not agree with everything he has to say on strength training, but I can say the same for every strength coach including myself, ha ha.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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rock_ten: April 21 2006
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Regarding happines and training progress
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You should read Mike Mahler's articles
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395337%5C
and less relevant:
http://www.mikemahler.com/newsletter/96.html
indeed lots of Mahler's newsletters talk about this kind of issue.
Im wondering how much of an effect this really has. Im currently NOT in a situation that I like, and am questioning all my recent choices that have led me here. I don't know whether I want to continue doing what I am now, or change. Im basically "not happy". In recent years when I was at school I was always happy, it was a laugh a minute, great fun, everything was cool. Now i feel pretty dead and dont care about anything. I go weeks without laughing once. In the past 12 months, I feel that ive wasted 90% or more of my time. Only a few moments stand out as emotionally intense, or enjoyable, etc. It sounds so lame but really all I have to look forward to are memories lol.
I could write forever on this, but the post linked below mentions the relevant points already
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395438%5C (you must read that really, vital info in there)
I only ask for a discussion of the on topic parts of the issue; do you think that a general dissatisfaction with life can actually lead to reduced progress in training? Well, reduced isnt the word, its basically 0 and has been for a long time. Im skeptical that such a strong connection as I suggested exists, although im sure there is some relationship.
Thanks
--Joe
post with more info
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 21 2006
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When you are depressed and not happy, there is no way that your T and GH are optimal. Maybe for the rare genetic freak. However, when T and GH are optimal you cannot help but feel good. Also, when T and GH are low, your training will suffer in addition to your mood, confidence etc.
Yes there are other reasons for depression such as losing family members, relationship problems, and whatever else you interpret as negative. However, it is my opinion that you will handle life's stressors better with optimal Hormone levels. Notice I am saying optimal, not high as super high T can be a problem. However, it is a problem that most people do not have. Kind of like having too much money!
If you do not enjoy your life, training can still be good as it can be the one place that you feel you have control and the one place where you feel good. However, in my opinion and speaking personally, when you feel great about your life, training cannot help but be great either.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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rock_ten: April 21 2006
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Regarding happines and training progress
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You should read Mike Mahler's articles
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395337%5C
and less relevant:
http://www.mikemahler.com/newsletter/96.html
indeed lots of Mahler's newsletters talk about this kind of issue.
Im wondering how much of an effect this really has. Im currently NOT in a situation that I like, and am questioning all my recent choices that have led me here. I don't know whether I want to continue doing what I am now, or change. Im basically "not happy". In recent years when I was at school I was always happy, it was a laugh a minute, great fun, everything was cool. Now i feel pretty dead and dont care about anything. I go weeks without laughing once. In the past 12 months, I feel that ive wasted 90% or more of my time. Only a few moments stand out as emotionally intense, or enjoyable, etc. It sounds so lame but really all I have to look forward to are memories lol.
I could write forever on this, but the post linked below mentions the relevant points already
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395438%5C (you must read that really, vital info in there)
I only ask for a discussion of the on topic parts of the issue; do you think that a general dissatisfaction with life can actually lead to reduced progress in training? Well, reduced isnt the word, its basically 0 and has been for a long time. Im skeptical that such a strong connection as I suggested exists, although im sure there is some relationship.
Thanks
--Joe
post with more info
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 21 2006
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If these different techniques help, use them. However, after one's hormones are checked to rule that out, action is the real key to change one's life for the better. Jack and his family just got hit by Katrina and I have noticed that Jack has been too busy rebuilding and helping his neighbors to bitch about the situation even though bitching would be perfectly justified.
You can be depressed or you can take action, but you cannot do both. I think that complaining and being negative is okay and yes it is human nature. However, at some point real world action needs to follow.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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rock_ten: April 21 2006
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Regarding happines and training progress
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You should read Mike Mahler's articles
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395337%5C
and less relevant:
http://www.mikemahler.com/newsletter/96.html
indeed lots of Mahler's newsletters talk about this kind of issue.
Im wondering how much of an effect this really has. Im currently NOT in a situation that I like, and am questioning all my recent choices that have led me here. I don't know whether I want to continue doing what I am now, or change. Im basically "not happy". In recent years when I was at school I was always happy, it was a laugh a minute, great fun, everything was cool. Now i feel pretty dead and dont care about anything. I go weeks without laughing once. In the past 12 months, I feel that ive wasted 90% or more of my time. Only a few moments stand out as emotionally intense, or enjoyable, etc. It sounds so lame but really all I have to look forward to are memories lol.
I could write forever on this, but the post linked below mentions the relevant points already
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395438%5C (you must read that really, vital info in there)
I only ask for a discussion of the on topic parts of the issue; do you think that a general dissatisfaction with life can actually lead to reduced progress in training? Well, reduced isnt the word, its basically 0 and has been for a long time. Im skeptical that such a strong connection as I suggested exists, although im sure there is some relationship.
Thanks
--Joe
post with more info
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 22 2006
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I agree with your post and of course I am no expert and to say that all menatal imbalances come from hormonal imbalances would be a major over simplification. That said, I stand by my statement that one's T levels should be the first thing that is looked at when one is depressed (men and women). It may not be the only reason, but if T levels are low, it is one of the reason.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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rock_ten: April 21 2006
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Regarding happines and training progress
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You should read Mike Mahler's articles
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395337%5C
and less relevant:
http://www.mikemahler.com/newsletter/96.html
indeed lots of Mahler's newsletters talk about this kind of issue.
Im wondering how much of an effect this really has. Im currently NOT in a situation that I like, and am questioning all my recent choices that have led me here. I don't know whether I want to continue doing what I am now, or change. Im basically "not happy". In recent years when I was at school I was always happy, it was a laugh a minute, great fun, everything was cool. Now i feel pretty dead and dont care about anything. I go weeks without laughing once. In the past 12 months, I feel that ive wasted 90% or more of my time. Only a few moments stand out as emotionally intense, or enjoyable, etc. It sounds so lame but really all I have to look forward to are memories lol.
I could write forever on this, but the post linked below mentions the relevant points already
http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/395438%5C (you must read that really, vital info in there)
I only ask for a discussion of the on topic parts of the issue; do you think that a general dissatisfaction with life can actually lead to reduced progress in training? Well, reduced isnt the word, its basically 0 and has been for a long time. Im skeptical that such a strong connection as I suggested exists, although im sure there is some relationship.
Thanks
--Joe
post with more info
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 21 2006
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feeling sorry for yourself is always the way to go. I always tell people to go to a hospital and talk to kids that have terminal cancer if they need motivation. If that does not help, I tell them to jump off a cliff and make room for the rest of us. Only partially joking ;-)
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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enamayan: April 22 2006
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Mike Mahler
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You really need to come back to San Jose to do a Level 2 seminar this year. I had a wonderful time last year at Shamrock's gym. Hooked up with Mike Castro. a few times...who by the way has no respect for progression/rest periods!
Enamayan
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 22 2006
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What I meant to say is:
From now on, Los Angeles is the only place in CA that I will be doing seminars at. Steve Cotter and I have a Level 1 Kettlebell Plus seminar coming up in Sept and I will have the info up on my site soon. Plan on being there.
The days of me driving 6 hours to teach a seminar are over. Plus the bay area is not anywhere near as lucrative as LA. Not even close. Finally, I am sick of traveling and plan on doing less seminars this year, even less next year and so forth. Thus, get to my seminars on the road while you can. Not a marketing gimmick (well, okay maybe partially) just a fact. Soon I plan on being known as Mike "passive income" Mahler!
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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enamayan: April 22 2006
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Mike Mahler
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You really need to come back to San Jose to do a Level 2 seminar this year. I had a wonderful time last year at Shamrock's gym. Hooked up with Mike Castro. a few times...who by the way has no respect for progression/rest periods!
Enamayan
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 22 2006
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6 boring hours on the 5 and you will be in LA. 5 or less if you enjoy speeding. Or you can take a 45 minute flight right into LAX and the seminar location is 5 minutes for LAX. You could even fly in before the seminar and fly home afterwards. Regardless, the seminar wil sell out within 45 days of its announcement as I have a big following in LA and so does Steve. With Steve Cotter on the tab it will be done with the quickness.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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enamayan: April 22 2006
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Mike Mahler
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You really need to come back to San Jose to do a Level 2 seminar this year. I had a wonderful time last year at Shamrock's gym. Hooked up with Mike Castro. a few times...who by the way has no respect for progression/rest periods!
Enamayan
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 22 2006
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From no on, Los Angeles is the only place in Ca that I will be doing seminars. Steve Cotter and are planning a level 1 plus seminar in Marina Del Rey inSeptember. Plan on being there. It will be on my site soon. The days of me doing driving 6 hours to teach a seminar are over!
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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enamayan: April 22 2006
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Mike Mahler
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You really need to come back to San Jose to do a Level 2 seminar this year. I had a wonderful time last year at Shamrock's gym. Hooked up with Mike Castro. a few times...who by the way has no respect for progression/rest periods!
Enamayan
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 22 2006
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8 hour workshop is not worth a 6 hour drive should give up on kettlebell training ;-) All joking aside it is going to be a kick ass seminar.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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enamayan: April 22 2006
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Mike Mahler
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You really need to come back to San Jose to do a Level 2 seminar this year. I had a wonderful time last year at Shamrock's gym. Hooked up with Mike Castro. a few times...who by the way has no respect for progression/rest periods!
Enamayan
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 22 2006
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I think I will have to hire you and Catherine as my PR staff. BTW, my rates are much higher than quoted above ;-)
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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wonderworks: April 24 2006
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Supplements for bjj
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To any of our party members. What supplements are good for recovery for
a very active bjj student that also strength trains with kbells???
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 24 2006
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If both are low, you need more sleep which is the number one way to improve recovery. Well, that and actually eating healthy food. Supplements are only useful if those two areas are addressed.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Bucky: April 24 2006
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Saturated Fat and Testosterone
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My friend and Doctor is involved whith age mangagement therapy which involves giving men testosterone injections to get them to a optimum level. I just had my testotsterone level checked, it was 950 which is at the upper end of the scale for a person my age (46) my doctor is 5 years younger and his was 450. I eat lots of saturated fat. Whole raw cheese, free range eggs, whole raw cream, butter, buffalo, venison, coconut oil along with olive oil and almonds. I meet whith my friend tommorow to see if they recomend any injections for me, I just thought it would be interesting for you folks on the forum to follow my case, my Doctor has been taking the injections himself and has gained 12 lbs. of muscle from pumping Iron with the therapy. I think they will recomend a drug which just tells your testicles to make more testosterone, it did not work for him he had to take straight testosterone injections, maybe he wasnt taking enough Saturated fats, I will keep everybody posted how my case proceeds it should be interesting for us here on the forum.
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 24 2006
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950 is excellent. Most people are not even close to that over the age of 25. What are your free levels at? You clearly do not need injections. Any Doc that gives you injectuons at that level is clearly not ethical.
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Simon Forsyth RKC: April 30 2006
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ATT: Shawn M
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What i think you need to do is not worry so much, people such as Mike, Steve etc. all will continue to make money because they get the results and have a good reputation they also network.
I think that a lot of people see attacks against kettlebells as personal attacks on Pavel when they arent (unless other wise stated), Pavel doesnt worry so why should you?
I also get the feeling that most people have forgotten that Pavel was originally marketed as a streaching expert and then a strength expert not a Kettlebell expert. Take my advice and dont worry about it, if you dont wanna buy biotest supplements then hey thats your choice I personally enjoy eating real food.
Just something for you to think about.
Simon
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 30 2006
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First Shawn, I really appreciate your business and your support. Very nice to see and thanks for doing that.
I agree with others that TC likes to joke around, especially with groups that he knows he can get a rise out of. Obviously DD and Crossfit fall into that category to varying degrees.
Regarding T-nation I have invited TC many times to come out to my KB seminars. He has not made it yet. No doubt he will have a different opinion when he sees me working with 105s and 88s. If not, who cares. None of us should take ourselves so seriously. They do not realize that kettlebells are a very versatile tool that can be used for a variety of goals. I have offered to write articles on KB's for them but they are not interested. No big deal.
My experience with TC has been that he is a good guy. T-mag was the first magazine to publish my articles back in 2001. He has veen very supportive over the years.
I do not agree with his comments about Pavel or Kettlebells, but everyone is entitled to his or her opinion. Personally, i think that TC's editorials are very funny and I get a good laugh out of many of them.
I do agree with Shawn that they should not censor posts over there. Both sides should be allowed to express themselves. If a magazine wants to be hardcore, then censorship should be unacceptable.
One thing is that I am respected by the t-nation following and many of the readers there have been to my seminars. Jack Reape is also thought of very highly over there. Many were skeptical about kettlebell training until they experienced it first hand. For that manner I was skeptical as well back in 2000. Once I tried it, I knew it would be a big hit and I have spent the last four years building a very successful and to a large extent kettlebell based business.
I will continue to keep doing KB seminars and make kettlebell DVD's, CD's, e-books regardless of what others think. I have never really cared about what others think. Much better things to do with my time.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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Simon Forsyth RKC: April 30 2006
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ATT: Shawn M
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What i think you need to do is not worry so much, people such as Mike, Steve etc. all will continue to make money because they get the results and have a good reputation they also network.
I think that a lot of people see attacks against kettlebells as personal attacks on Pavel when they arent (unless other wise stated), Pavel doesnt worry so why should you?
I also get the feeling that most people have forgotten that Pavel was originally marketed as a streaching expert and then a strength expert not a Kettlebell expert. Take my advice and dont worry about it, if you dont wanna buy biotest supplements then hey thats your choice I personally enjoy eating real food.
Just something for you to think about.
Simon
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 30 2006
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Sounds like a good idea. Maybe tell him that if he can clean and jerk a pair of 105s you will buy $500.00 worth of Biotest products. However, if he cannot do that, he has to give you $500.00 worth of BT products ;-)
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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FireRam: April 30 2006
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Staking a claim on Double Snatch
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Comrades, I recently got my second 1pood kettlebell, and I am starting to work on double snatches.
My original workout numbers are 40 reps, 4 sets of 10.
Stinks, right? Right!
But, I am posting the offensive numbers to make a point to myself. I will be much higher as I get better!
OK, you all can laugh at me now!
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 30 2006
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I rarely do one-arm snatches and focus primarily on Double Swings and Double Snatches. The first time I ever picked up the 105lb bell, I knocked off 12 snatches l,r. When I knocked off 17 reps l,r with the 105 that was without much practice doing one-arm snatches. The hip power from doing double swings with 88s and Double Snatches with the 70s carried over well. with one 105, you are working against 105lbs. On double swings with the 88s, you are working against 176lbs and Double Snatches with the 70s you are firing against 140lbs. Thus, you build up stronger hip power with double work than with even very heavy one-arm work.
No doubt each person is different. However, I feel stronly that double ballistic work improves one-arm work, but not necessarily the other way around.
Mike Mahler
http://www.mikemahler.com
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Question
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eddie99: April 30 2006
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Steve C, Pavel, Mike M, Steve M or other SRKC...Training (Bone cancer)
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Hi all,
I sent a previous post at http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/400950%5C and http://forum.dragondoor.com/training/message/400951%5C
Any insight or advice from a SRKC would be great! Thanks for all your help guys!
Eddie
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Answer
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Mike Mahler: April 30 2006
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What you are asking about is a medical issue. My advice is to get with a good Doctor that is well versed in Physical training as well. A good place to start may be with the site below:
http://www.ultimatemedicalresearch.com
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