Boundless Life

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Vote here for Ben's latest hubpage on PUFA's and MUFA's! New! Scroll down to donate anything over $15 to the show, leave your address, and I'll send you a BenGreenfieldFitness.com t-shirt. In this June 11 free audio episode: Can diabetics exercise hard?, how to look good naked, how much sodium is acceptable for fit people, how fast do multi-vitamins digest?, is egg protein OK?, is it better or run right after a bike ride, or later in the day?, what's the best swim workout?, what exactly happens if you don't eat after a workout?, how to get dressed during a triathlon, a drink called Eiro, caffeine capsules, a supplement called DMSO, and what to do about a pear figure. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Justclick here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. Scroll down to donate to the show, and Ben will send you a BenGreenfieldFitness.com t-shirt... ---------------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: "Diabetes and Exercise." In this featured topic, I interview Daniel Vincent, team captain from Triabetes . We discuss the following questions: Do diabetics compete in sports, and if so, who are some diabetic athletes we might be familiar with? Many of our listeners do marathons, triathlons, etc. Let’s say someone just found out they have diabetes. Do they need to stop training, and if not, what is going to change for them, specifically for their training and racing? How does this compare to someone who has had diabetes for their entire life? Are they managed the same way? What type of tools are commonly used to help athletes monitor their blood sugars? Do these tools differ from what the general non-athlete diabetic would use? How frequently do you test, both during exercise and apart from it? What are you looking for when you test, and what do you do if your numbers aren’t where they need to be? What does your diet consist of? What does your training schedule look like? What is the biggest threat when you are swimming/cycling/running? If you're a diabetic, or have a loved one with diabetes, this is a great introduction to exercising more seriously while managing diabetes! ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. The Marathon Dominator officialy launched on May 20 at midnight and is now LIVE! This is a complete program designed for the complete beginner who wants to ease themselves into a marathon, all the way up to the advanced marathoner interested in breaking their PR! Click here to learn more, and to find out about all the bonus items Ben Greenfield is including with the Marathon Dominator. 2. Ben Greenfield has joined The Quick & Dirty Tips Network at http://getfitguy.quickanddirtytips.com to produce a new feature called "The Get-Fit Guy", which is the latest addition to the network's top ranked iTunes podcasts and free online advice column. Go subscribe in iTunes and leave a ranking! 3. BenGreenfieldFitness t-shirts are now available and you get one instantly when you donate more than $17 to the show. Just scroll down to donate. 4. Join Ben to race a double triathlon in Thailand (http://www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com/)! Week 1: Laguna Phuket Triathlon; Week 2: Ironman 70.3 Thailand. Here's the details... 1) The Laguna Phuket triathlon sold out BUT they have given me race slots for any athletes who want to accompany me for this trip. The 70.3 race is still open for entry. 2) I was able to book a block of rooms at the main hotel at the center of the race hub and *exactly* where you want to be for all the action, for a 30% DISCOUNT (plus, cut that in half if I hook you up with a roommate). 3) I was given all information about WHAT you need to do to get the rooms and to register for the race, along with special "travel agent" pricing, even though I'm not an agent. 4) I have had 8 athletes confirm that they will be attending and so that leaves room for SEVEN additional athletes. I simply don't see myself being able to arrange logistics and guide more than FIFTEEN athletes on this trip. So, 7 slots left. 5) Let's be very straight up about cost: I am flying from Seattle in the U.S. and, not counting food & incidentals, am budgeting $2950 USD for the entire trip, start to finish. 6) Let's also be very straight about MY responsibilities: I will get YOU your hotel, a roommate to share costs with, your race slot, get you and your bike from the airport to the hotel, do guided race course tours, get awards banquet tickets if you want one, and arrange all nightly dinners, social functions and group parties. 7) Let's finally be very straight about YOUR responsibilities

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode New! Scroll down to donate anything over $15 to the show, leave your address, and I'll send you a BenGreenfieldFitness.com t-shirt (pictured above). In this June 2 free audio episode: a mystery injury that you probably have, hornet juice, is protein powder toxic, dealing with road rash, more on the carb equation, traveling for endurance events, how hard should you race a triathlon, food vitamin interactions, stomach problems while running, recovering from knee surgery, and homemade gels and sports drinks. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Justclick here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. Also, Ben just made available a "100% Vegan Nutrition Plan", along with a "4 Weeks Before A Triathlon" Nutrition & Training Plan, and a "12 Week Fitness and Fat Loss" plan ALL AVAILABLE NOW at Ben's fitness, triathlon and nutrition plan download page, at http://www.trainingpeaks.com/pacificfit. Just click here! ---------------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: "The Mystery Injury." In this featured topic, I interview Tom Vachet from Performance Management about the single injury that is responsible for more than 75% of the pain you have while exercising.Our discussion includes: -Exactly what this injury is, and why it is severely underdiagnosed... -How to know if you have the injury... -What to do to fix yourself.... -How to get rid of mysterious leg, back and shoulder problems... -And much more! I have personally struggled with the injury that Tom and I discuss, I have coached and seen many, many athletes with this problem, and would highly recommend you listen to this interview if you run, bike, swim, lift, or play any sports. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. The Marathon Dominator officialy launched on May 20 at midnight and is now LIVE! This is a complete program designed for the complete beginner who wants to ease themselves into a marathon, all the way up to the advanced marathoner interested in breaking their PR! Click here to learn more, and to find out about all the bonus items Ben Greenfield is including with the Marathon Dominator. 2. Ben Greenfield has joined The Quick & Dirty Tips Network at http://getfitguy.quickanddirtytips.com to produce a new feature called "The Get-Fit Guy", which is the latest addition to the network's top ranked iTunes podcasts and free online advice column. Go subscribe in iTunes and leave a ranking! 3. BenGreenfieldFitness t-shirts are now available and you get one instantly when you donate more than $17 to the show. Just scroll down to donate. 4. Join Ben to race a double triathlon in Thailand (http://www.lagunaphukettriathlon.com/)! Week 1: Laguna Phuket Triathlon; Week 2: Ironman 70.3 Thailand. Here's the details... 1) The Laguna Phuket triathlon sold out BUT they have given me race slots for any athletes who want to accompany me for this trip. The 70.3 race is still open for entry. 2) I was able to book a block of rooms at the main hotel at the center of the race hub and *exactly* where you want to be for all the action, for a 30% DISCOUNT (plus, cut that in half if I hook you up with a roommate). 3) I was given all information about WHAT you need to do to get the rooms and to register for the race, along with special "travel agent" pricing, even though I'm not an agent. 4) I have had 8 athletes confirm that they will be attending and so that leaves room for SEVEN additional athletes. I simply don't see myself being able to arrange logistics and guide more than FIFTEEN athletes on this trip. So, 7 slots left. 5) Let's be very straight up about cost: I am flying from Seattle in the U.S. and, not counting food & incidentals, am budgeting $2950 USD for the entire trip, start to finish. 6) Let's also be very straight about MY responsibilities: I will get YOU your hotel, a roommate to share costs with, your race slot, get you and your bike from the airport to the hotel, do guided race course tours, get awards banquet tickets if you want one, and arrange all nightly dinners, social functions and group parties. 7) Let's finally be very straight about YOUR responsibilities: YOU will register for the race following my instructions, arrange your own flight into Phuket, pay $200 USD for me to organize everything, and make sure you settle with me for your share of the room block. So IF YOU WANT IN, reply very soon! I will be acting fast to squeeze us into the race. Like I said, only 7 slots are left. 5. Get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this May 26 free audio episode: how to know if your carbohydrate intake is proper, how long should it take for the heart rate to recover after exercise, are some fruits better than others, eating before a morning workout, how to stop appetite cravings, cardio before weights or weights before cardio, should athletes train their body to burn fat, does getting stronger make you faster, do you have to give up a muscular body to be an Ironman triathlete and is something called "Zone 3" training bad? Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. Also, Ben just made available a "100% Vegan Nutrition Plan", along with a "4 Weeks Before A Triathlon" Nutrition & Training Plan, and a "12 Week Fitness and Fat Loss" plan ALL AVAILABLE NOW at Ben's fitness, triathlon and nutrition plan download page, at http://www.trainingpeaks.com/pacificfit. Just click here! ---------------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: "Carbohydrates and Blood Sugar Testing" In this featured topic, I interview Dr. Richard Cohen from Bioletics. Our discussion includes: -Why traditional blood glucose tests can be ineffective... -How to know exactly how your body is responding to your current carbohydrate intake... -Why you need to pay attention to blood sugar, especially if you're an athlete.... -New, cutting-edge procedures for evaluating your carbohydrate status... -What is an "A1C" test? -And much more! If you want to know more about your blood sugar and carbohydrate management, you’re going to want to listen to this interview. Dr. Cohen really knows his stuff, and is on the cutting-edge when it comes to dispelling old-fashioned medical concepts. His entire Bioletics program can be best understood by listening to the interviews about the six key performance factors in podcasts #53 and #62 (which you can find by clicking here). If you’re ready to get started and want to testy our own internal performance factors from your home, just click here to go to the Bioletics website to begin your six key performance factor testing or call Bioletics at 888-371-1033, ask for Dr. Richard Cohen, and tell him that Ben Greenfield sent you. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. The Marathon Dominator officialy launched on May 20 at midnight and is now LIVE! This is a complete program designed for the complete beginner who wants to ease themselves into a marathon, all the way up to the advanced marathoner interested in breaking their PR! Click here to learn more, and to find out about all the bonus items Ben Greenfield is including with the Marathon Dominator. 2. Ben Greenfield has joined The Quick & Dirty Tips Network at http://getfitguy.quickanddirtytips.com to produce a new feature called "The Get-Fit Guy", which is the latest addition to the network's top ranked iTunes podcasts and free online advice column. Go subscribe in iTunes and leave a ranking! 3. Ben just made available a 100% Vegan Nutrition Plan, along with a 4 Weeks Before Ironman Nutrition & Training Plan, and a 12 Week Fitness and Fat Loss plan ALL AVAILABLE NOW at Ben's fitness, triathlon and nutrition plan download page, at http://www.trainingpeaks.com/pacificfit. Just click here! 4. Get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) --------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Mark asks: "I regularly run with a heart rate monitor. At the end of a short run, perhaps 30 minutes or less, I'm used to seeing my heart rate quickly drop to below 120 when I slow down to a jog at the end. A couple times now, following runs longer than an hour, my heart rate has barely slowed down when I slowed down. For example, this past weekend following an 80 minute run, I walked for the last 5 minutes, but my heart rate remained in the 140-150 range. When I came to a complete stop in the parking lot, my heart rate actually increased by 10 points over my walking heart rate. It took maybe 5-10 minutes of sitting in the shade before my heart rate dropped below 120. On this long run, I didn't have any water or food (the temperature was in the mid 80s), and I may have been starting to bonk, as I'm prone to low blood sugar. I also was exercising right around, and occasionally above my AT for the last 2 miles. Could any of these factors explain why my heart rate took so long to return to normal?" Patrick asks: "In keeping with your Holistic Fueling plan, I've gotten prett

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode [video http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/clubvideos/GymBoss.flv GymBoss] sorry, but the video is a bit blurry in the beginning - don't worry, it gets better! In this May 20 free audio episode, I include more details on the Tabata sets (that I mention above) and why you would want to use them along with something called "The GymBoss".I also answer listener questions about how to run faster, drop fat fast, treat foot pain, use indoor cycling to get faster for bike racing, what to do if you panic in your triathlon wetsuit and getting ready for a century ride on a bike. --------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: I've been using something called "The GymBoss" to complete my "Tabata" workouts. Just wait until you try it...combining The GymBoss with a Tabata set is a perfect way to get fit fast or squeeze a workout into a very short period of time. If you want to learn more about why Tabata sets work, and where they originated, just read an article on Hubpages that I wrote by clicking here. If you want to try a Tabata set, then do 1 set of 20 seconds on, 10 seconds off for 4 minutes of each of the following, with a 60 second rest between Tabata sets: -Pushup or Knee Pushup -Squat -Crunch -Row, Assisted Pull-Up or Pulldown As you can imagine, "The GymBoss" makes your Tabata sets MUCH easier to manage, because you're not constantly looking at your watch! Watch the video above, then click here to check out more info on "The GymBoss". ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. The Marathon Dominator launches on May 20 at midnight! This is a complete program designed for the complete beginner who wants to ease themselves into a marathon, all the way up to the advanced marathoner interested in breaking their PR! Click here to learn more, and to find out about all the bonus items Ben Greenfield is including with the Marathon Dominator. 2. Ben Greenfield has joined The Quick & Dirty Tips Network at http://getfitguy.quickanddirtytips.com to produce a new feature called "The Get-Fit Guy", which is the latest addition to the network's top ranked iTunes podcasts and free online advice column. Go subscribe in iTunes and leave a ranking! 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. Want to see what a video analysis looks like? Check it out by clicking here. 4. Get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) --------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Listener Rick asks: "My mom is going to have surgery in a couple of weeks. Should she be changing her diet in pre-surgery for a faster recovery? Any dietary tips would be appreciated." In my response, I mention something called "Recoverease". Glen asks: "What to do do improve running speed?" Listener Cheri asks: "I have 30 days before my first 100 mile run. I'd like to drop some unwanted fat. My work load is high right now so my dietary needs are high, is it still possible to drop some fat?" Listener JD asks: "Hi Ben—One of my training partners has this nagging pain through the arch in his foot and Achilles/heel area. He indicates it’s mostly tight but bothersome. He recently mentioned he tore his Achilles twenty years ago when he wrestled in high school. So I’ve suggested some yoga poses for stretching, mainly downward dog, and using a golf ball or frozen bottle of water to “massage” the foot. He’s the kind of guy who’s resistant to seeing a doctor but it’s been going on now for a couple of months. In addition to visiting his doctor are there any stretches, exercises or recovery tools that you could suggest?" In my response to JD, I mention topical magnesium therapy, and the magnesium you can get by clicking here. Listener Roy asks: "I am a part-time indoor cycling instructor (several classes per week) with another full-time job who adopted our first daughter, age three, over the winter. Because my time at home has now increased exponentially in value, I am focusing in this season's triathlon training on increasing training intensity as a path to helping decrease my training volume while still remaining competitive enough to reach my personal goals. Cycling, as you know, is the most time-consuming of the triathlon disciplines. Recently, while catching up on back episodes of the Indoor Cycling Instruc

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this May 12th free audio episode: Marathon training tips, power to weight ratios and body fat for triathletes, craving carbs, not sweating during workouts and is exercise without eating in the morning bad? Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. Finally, be sure to experiment with our cool new commenting system, where you can add photos, links and a personal profile to your comments! --------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: Jill Bruyere is a fitness professional living in Seattle, WA. Her true passion in the fitness industry is to help as many people as she can run a successful and healthy marathon. Personally, she has run marathons in: Maui, Washington DC, Seattle, Boston, and New York. She did not reach her goal of beating 3:40 on her first marathon attempt, so she signed up for her 2nd. In her 2nd attempt, she still did not reach my goal. So she changed up her training plan and by the 3rd marathon, she was able to take 16 minutes off her time and finish with 3:27. She continued with the same training program and finished her next two races under 3:35. During our interview, Jill and I talk about the following: -Jill's 10 Laws of Marathon... -What type of equipment is crucial for good marathoning... -Jill's shin splint fixing secret... -Ben's new favorite twist on a plank exercise for runners... -How to go from couch potato to marathon with a 16 week program... -Exactly what the new Marathon Dominator program is... -And much more! Jill has now joined forces with Ben to create a new program that allows the beginning marathon to achieve success with zero guesswork, or the advanced marathoner to break a PR. The program will be released on May 21st, from http://www.marathondominator.com. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. Watch the video above - only a few days left to get in by the May 15 deadline! $300 in cold, hard cash, a FREE Gymstick, and a 1 hour personal interview with Ben Greenfield...a free one year membership and access to all past archives of Ben’s Body Transformation Club....a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get the body and health you’ve always wanted....Sound interesting? From May 1-May 15, Ben will be accepting entries for a brand new event called Ben’s 2010 Summer Body Challenge. To qualify for competition in the challenge and be entered into the drawing for the prizes above, you MUST follow the four easy steps that you get by clicking here. 2. Ben Greenfield has joined The Quick & Dirty Tips Network at http://getfitguy.quickanddirtytips.com to produce a new feature called "The Get-Fit Guy", which is the latest addition to the network's top ranked iTunes podcasts and free online advice column. Go subscribe in iTunes and leave a ranking! 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. Want to see what a video analysis looks like? Check it out by clicking here. 4. Get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) --------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Listener Mo asks: I have a question regarding eating and cycling. I am fairly new to the triathlon world and would love to do a half ironman, have completed several sprints, two Olympics and several half marathons along with 2 marathons. I started this journey 5 years ago. My concern is this, when I am just in running mode I can keep my weight 115 which is normal weight for me.(height 5'2) When I switch to more cycling to get into cycling shape I am so hungry all the time. I immediately start putting on weight. I did a 50 mile ride yesterday and tried some of the things I have heard on your podcast and I stayed away from the cookies at the rest stops, ate carb/protein mix right after riding, had a fish dinner but today I can not stop eating, craving carbs. HELP!! Should I stick with GU packs and protein bars for nutrition which would be less calories? Listener Chuck asks: What is the "ideal" body fat level/ range for a competitive triathlete and what would be getting to

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this May 5th free audio episode: resistance stretching, best temperature for ice baths, skipping meals, exercise headaches, runner's knee, slow metabolism, hay fever and exercise, carbo-loading, sodium phosphate supplements, v8 juice, alcohol health effects, altitude training and trouble sleeping. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. Finally, be sure to experiment with our cool new commenting system, where you can add photos, links and a personal profile to your comments! --------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: Dara Torres is a 12 time Olympic medalist, including 5 time Olympian, American Record Holder, Oldest Female Swimming Medalist Ever and the Most Decorated American Female Swimmer of all time. Dara refers to something called resistance training as her ’secret weapon’ when it comes to keeping fit. Recently, she released a DVD Resistance Stretching With Dara Torres in collaboration with Steve Sierra and Anne Tierney from Innovative Body Solution that teaches resistance training. In today's featured topic, I interview Anne about Resistance Stretching. My questions include: -What is resistance stretching? -Who would it benefit? -How long is a typical session? -Will it make an athlete “too flexible”? -Would it be best performed before or after a workout? -Can it be used a substitute for a workout? Overall, resistance training is a mild form of exercise that increases flexibility and also prevents injury and it’s something that both athletes and non-athletes should add to their daily workout routine. The DVD includes new ways of stretching and also includes strength training, flexibility training and aerobics. You get a total of 17 exercises for the upper and lower body all of which Torres takes you through in 20 minutes. I did it in my living room a couple weeks ago, and it's surprisingly a cardiovascular workout that also includes the flexibility component. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. "Triathlon: A Mother of a Sport! Super Moms Who Train, Race and Win" is now available for free from Mindset Triathlon! Click here to download a free copy now that you can send to your mom! Being a mother is hard enough. But being a mother and a triathlete earns women a whole new level of respect. This Mother's Day, we want to hear about the amazing, strong and motivated women in your lives! We want to know about the Herculean efforts they have made in order succeed in their sport and still excel at their most important job: being a Mom. 2. $300 in cold, hard cash, a FREE Gymstick, and a 1 hour personal interview with Ben Greenfield...a free one year membership and access to all past archives of Ben’s Body Transformation Club....a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get the body and health you’ve always wanted....Sound interesting? From May 1-May 15, Ben will be accepting entries for a brand new event called Ben’s 2010 Summer Body Challenge. To qualify for competition in the challenge and be entered into the drawing for the prizes above, you MUST follow the four easy steps that you get by clicking here. 3. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 4. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. Want to see what a video analysis looks like? Check it out by clicking here. 5. Get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) --------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Tina asks: Hey Ben, in training for my Ironman I finally decided to try the dreaded ice baths and I was amazed how well I felt the nex

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this April 28th free audio episode: sunscreen, vegan diets, foam rollers vs. muscle sticks, training with crossfit, carb cravings, personal training certifications, gut problems during exercise, and joint pains. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: As the weather begins to heat up, I've been receiving lots of questions about skin care and sunscreen - so I decided to get an expert on for an interview about the things you've always wanted to know about sunscreen, but were afraid to ask. If you're a triathlon fan, perhaps you know that Ironman world champion Craig Alexander has been wearing a new, healthier, more waterproof type of sunblock. The inventor of that sunblock, Nic Martens, Ph.D., has held key leadership positions throughout his 12 years with Johnson & Johnson (J&J) in Research and Development for Fast Moving Consumer Goods. We're talking about the stuff that Craig Alexander wear Nic launched several “market-disrupting” products with significantly superior features and benefits relative to competing products, including the biggest launch in Neutrogena’s history. He developed a breakthrough sun protection technology that delivers superior protection against harmful UVA rays, and his educational background includes a Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge (UK), and a BS degree from the University of Munich(Germany). During our discussion, I ask Nick the following questions: We all know that “too much sun” is probably a bad thing, but can you explain what actually happens to the skin of people, especially athletes, who spend a lot of time in the sun? Do environmental conditions, like sand or snow, play a role? Would exercise contribute to the damage, say, via more free radical production? What’s the difference between the UVA and UVB rays? How does sun screen work? Should people look for, or avoid, certain ingredients on the their sun screens? Athletes exercising in hot weather complain that sunscreen makes them feel hotter and reduces cooling. Could this be possible? Some would argue that sun screens cause as much cancer as the sun, due to carcinogenic chemicals in the suncreen. Is this true? What about vitamin D? Could wearing sun screen affect vitamin D production? Is there something that can be put into suncreen that makes it less likely to sting the eyes? Finally, what is your take on tanning beds? For all BenGreenfieldFitness listeners, Scape Labs is offering a "sample pack" which contains their 3 main items: lotion, lip balm and Face Stick. Retail is normally $30, but you get all 3 for $25, shipping included. None of these products are available for retail purchase (yet!) but all you need to to do get hooked up with Scape Labs is e-mail [email protected] with the subject "Sample Pack", or just mention that you heard about them from BenGreenfieldFitness.com. You'll get Dr. Marten's formulation sent straight to you. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. $300 in cold, hard cash, a FREE Gymstick, and a 1 hour personal interview with Ben Greenfield...a free one year membership and access to all past archives of Ben’s Body Transformation Club....a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get the body and health you’ve always wanted....Sound interesting? From May 1-May 15, Ben will be accepting entries for a brand new event called Ben’s 2010 Summer Body Challenge. To qualify for competition in the challenge and be entered into the drawing for the prizes above, you MUST follow the four easy steps that you get by clicking here. 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. Want to see what a video analysis looks like? Check it out by clicking here. 4. Get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently de

Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this April 21st free audio episode:cramping, insulin, exercising your calves, apple cider vinegar for fat loss, SPARK energy drink, analyzing supplement quality, bike tire choices, carb loading, staying fit through injuries, and more on mini-fasts - (sorry about some of the audio issues on this one - in the process of switching mics!) Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: Cramping Dr. Pascal has been treating and creating miracles with high school, college and world-class athletes for more than 17 years. His experience not only includes work with Olympic track and field stars but has spanned other sports and athletic disciplines as well. From 1990 to 1991, he worked with the Women's Pro Beach Volleyball tour, with gymnasts at the World Gymnastic Championships in 1991 and with golfers from 1994 to 1998 on the PGA Nike Golf tour. Dr. Pascal grew up in Los Angeles, where he was the City Cross-Country Champion, ran the fastest mile at the California State Track & Field Championships, and was awarded the coveted moniker of “Athlete of the Year.” He ran cross-country and track for UCLA, where he set the NCAA Intramural National Record for 800 meters, and was a member of the NCAA National Championship Track & Field Dual Meet Team. He was sponsored by Nike while competing for the Santa Monica Track Club (ranked as the #1 track team in the world at the time), and for the U.S. Team on the World Tour (Zurich, Berlin, Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo). He has run the metric equivalent of a 3:57 mile, and was the 1,500-meter Champion at the 1983 World Games in Helsinki, Finland. During our interview, Dr. Pascal and I discuss the following: What are the cause factors for cramps? Are certain people or body types more prone to cramping? Are there foods that raise/lower the risk of cramping? What about pickle juice as a preventive measure for cramping? Is sodium chloride the only salt involved, or does it need anything else to work properly? Are all cramps created equal, or can there be cramps related to dehydration vs. cramps related to muscular fatigue? What are techniques to quickly rid the body of cramps that occur during competition? Could fluid or electrolyte transport to the muscle actually not work properly in some people? Can you actually massage a cramp out on the go, or should you just stop? Can eating a carbohydrate or consuming gels help? Can licking your own skin or sucking on a sweat band recycle some minerals? During the interview, Dr Pascal also talks about the "Natural Vitality" minerals and products that he uses with his athletes. Click here to learn more about them. -------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. $300 in cold, hard cash, a FREE Gymstick, and a 1 hour personal interview with Ben Greenfield...a free one year membership and access to all past archives of Ben’s Body Transformation Club....a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get the body and health you’ve always wanted....Sound interesting? From May 1-May 15, Ben will be accepting entries for a brand new event called Ben’s 2010 Summer Body Challenge. To qualify for competition in the challenge and be entered into the drawing for the prizes above, you MUST follow the four easy steps that you get by clicking here. 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. Want to see what a video analysis looks like? Check it out by clicking here. 4. Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) --------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skyp

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this April 14th free audio episode:what you must know about anti-inflammatory drugs, losing fat with mini-fasting, walk-running during a marathon, exercising during the HCG diet, is it OK to eat anything you want if you stay lean, omega 3-6-9 blends, triathlon wetsuits, eating dates during exercise, sockless shoes, carb cravings at night, and what books do I recommend? Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic:In today's featured topic on anti-inflammatories, I interview natural healing expert and physician Dr. Roby Mitchell, also known as Dr. Fitt, who addresses the following issues: Why more people die from NSAIDS like ibuprofen and celebrex than from HIV infection... Why studies have associated NSAIDS with thromboembolic phenomena such as "heart attacks",kidney damage,and GI bleeds accounting for around 16,500 deaths each year... How NSAIDS actually impede cartilage repair and can cause cartilage loss... What about for athletes who are sore, or who want to be able to run while sore... would it be OK for them? After an injury, should an individual take a NSAID? If NSAID’s are not advised, what are alternatives, and how do they work? During our interview, Dr. Roby Mitchell, mentions that one alternative for pain from inflammation is Phenocane. Phenocane is a natural anti-inflammatory and COX2 inhibitor that relieves pain and eliminates inflammation without inhibiting COX1 development like aspirin does or causing many of the liver and stomach problems that ibuprofen and Advil do. In other words, it prevents the production of an enzyme which is bad for you without inhibiting the growth of one that is good for you. COX2 enzymes have long been thought to be one of the causes of cancer in the body and they are known to help sustain PGE1 (Prostaglandin) which is the secretion that causes inflammation and the pain that results from it. COX2 is an enzyme that protects the lining of the digestive tract and bloodstream. Phenocane is a safe and popular alternative to pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories, giving you all of the benefits without the harmful side effects. Click here to try Phenocane now, and use code "NATURAL" for free shipping to the US. ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. Ben's Body Transformation Club has officially launched and is open to anyone, anywhere in the United States! Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. 4. Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) 5. Mother's Day Contest Being a mother is hard enough. But being a mother and a triathlete earns women a whole new level of respect. This Mother's Day, we want to hear about the amazing, strong and motivated women in your lives! We want to know about the Herculean efforts they have made in order succeed in their sport and still excel at their most important job: being a Mom. Popular Coach, author and founder of the Rock Star Triathlete Academy, Ben Greenfield, has teamed with Mindset Triathlon to make this Mother's Day contest possible. Have fun writing and honoring a Mother in your life! Submit your short essay about a Triathlete Mother by April 15th and your words could appear in the Mindset Triathlon book, "Triathlon: A Mother of a Sport! Super Moms Who Train, Race and Win," will be edited by

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyaAICOBKk8 In this April 7, 2010 free audio episode: using mental tactics for training, a high fat diet for staying lean, eating while running, yerba mate, agave nectar, strength training while endurance training, sugar alcohols, and passing a physical examination test. Featured Topic: Want to learn how to use your mental power to achieve awesome feats of endurance - from a 5K to an Ironman and beyond? In today's featured topic, I interview Jon Berghoff (from the video above), who runs a Peak Performance Sales Training company for sales professionals, executives and small business owners. Many of the principles he teaches on what it takes to be the “best in the world” at your work, are the same teachings that drew him towards ultra marathons for the first time in 2005. Jon is not your conventional athlete. His physical training is typically a fraction of the prescribed regiments, and his number one strategy for completing an ultra race is using his Personal Psychology to manage the mental challenges of endurance running. Today, I ask him about the psychological techniques he uses during his ultra-running, which includes a nearly 400 mile run from Washington D.C. to Cleveland, Ohio! Visit www.400milerun.comfor details. During the interview, Jon and I discuss the following: What do you do in your work as a Peak Performance Business Coach, and how did that lead to running Ultra Marathons? What role do you believe our mental abilities play in our success as athletes? Is it true that for the past 3 50 Mile runs, your 100 Mile run, AND your 332 Mile run, you didn’t really train for these? If you don’t follow a formal training program, how do you really know if you are appropriately prepared physically? WHY did you choose to run from Washington D.C. to Cleveland, Ohio? Just getting prepared for this event was significantly more challenging than the actual run, why was that? What were some of the challenges you faced each day as you ran from D.C. to Cleveland? For our listeners who can relate to the excitement of achieving an incredible physical feat, what advice do you have? ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. Ben's Body Transformation Club has officially launched and is open to anyone, anywhere in the United States! Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16 - Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. 4. Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) 5. Mother's Day Contest Being a mother is hard enough. But being a mother and a triathlete earns women a whole new level of respect. This Mother's Day, we want to hear about the amazing, strong and motivated women in your lives! We want to know about the Herculean efforts they have made in order succeed in their sport and still excel at their most important job: being a Mom. Popular Coach, author and founder of the Rock Star Triathlete Academy, Ben Greenfield, has teamed with Mindset Triathlon to make this Mother's Day contest possible. Have fun writing and honoring a Mother in your life! Submit your short essay about a Triathlete Mother by April 15th and your words could appear in the Mindset Triathlon book, "Triathlon: A Mother of a Sport! Super Moms Who Train, Race and Win," will be edited by Ben Greenfield. Mindset Triathlon will select the top 30 essays they receive for publication. Plus, the author of the favorite essay will win 2 underwater mp3 players, 2 sets of Ben Greenfield's books on MindsetTriathlon and 2 memberships to Ben Greenfield's Rock Star Triathlete Academy. Select essays will also run in USAT's Multisport Zone. The final published book will be available

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lU1wbAvSNQ If you thought the video above was interesting, you're going to want to check out this entire post! In this March 31st free audio episode: what is living fuel?, what to do if you're a female with too much muscle mass, bodybugg vs. hr monitors, where to ride your bike when you don't have room to train, is too much exercise a bad thing, how to use electrolytes, compression socks vs. compression tights, the Egoscue method of pain management, do smoothies destroy your food?, the best protein for women, do expand-a-lungs work?, and a good substitute for hamburger patties. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic: In my interview with KC Craichy (the guy in the video at the top of this post), he answers my questions about living fuel, which you can learn more about or get by clicking here. What is a superfood? What are the primary ingredients in the SuperGreens? What makes the Living Fuel SuperGreens unique? In what type of situations would someone use SuperGreens? (i.e. Fat loss, sports performance, recovery, etc.) What is in the CocoChia bar? When would someone want to eat it? Would you consider these superfoods OK for kids? ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. Ben's Body Transformation Club has officially launched and is open to anyone, anywhere in the United States! Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. 4. Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code) ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Julia asks: "I have a question that you probably have not been asked before. I am a top age-group female, age 56, triathlete who has been competing for 21 years. I’ve done 11 Ironmans including 4 Hawaiian Ironmans. I’m very strong on the swim and the bike but my running is slow due to my (I think excessive) muscle mass and a knee issue. My body fat varies between 18-19%. How can I lose muscle mass? They say at around 35 years of age you start losing muscle mass…..I’m still waiting! How can I lose muscle mass besides starving; because then I would not be able to train for the 8-10 triathlons I do a season? I do not eat excessive protein or take anything that would “beef me up”. People constantly comment on my muscles and I do not lift weights." Listener Patricia asks: "I need your help, I am so confused! I am a female, 5'7, 160lbs. I am trying hard to lose weight but I am really struggling in this department. I have been focused since Nov, and even though I have run three marathons in three months, bike long rides every weekend, run, swim and weight train during the week, and eat moderately well, I have not lost a single lb. I have gotten a local personal trainer to help me with muscle gain to aid towards this goal and recently she lent me a bodybugg device. My Polar HR has been indicating I burn approx. 10 cal/min during moderate to intense exercise. Well, I wore the BodyBugg for a 70mi bike ride (windy and hilly) and while I did not hammer it (working on base building) I was working pretty hard. Well, that took approx 4 hours and the BodyBugg

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this March 27th free audio episode:Combining something called the Beach Body Insanity workout with endurance training, should you wait until you're thirsty to drink, forskolin for fat loss, Half Ironman nutrition, staying warm during cold water swims, and energy bars for appetite control. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements 1. Ben's Body Transformation Club has officially launched and is open to anyone, anywhere in the United States! Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. 4. Brand new - get insider VIP tips and discounts from Ben - conveniently delivered directly to your phone! Just complete the information below... First Name Last Name Email Cell # (1+area code): ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Kelly asks: I know you so appreciate my questions, so here goes.....I have a couple of girlfriends doing the Beach Body INSANITY workout and they are trying to get me on board...I was thinking no way since I'm training for a marathon, but as I started thinking more, perhaps it's fine to supplement with my running program....What do you think and/or know about this program? Listener David asks: My wife does not drink enough water. She admit to this as well fails to drink water from a lack of thirst. She has a history of kidney stones, and so her need to drink more water is evident. Her dad who I bike with regularly, also does not drink much water. He hardly ever brings two bottles on a ride even when the ride exceeds 50 miles. Do some people just not get thirsty? Can this be healthy and could there possibly be an underlying reason for their lack of thirst? If so, do you have any methods to "re-thirst" and re-hydrate perhaps? Love the show. Thanks for your time. Listener Chuck asks: Can you help me figure my race day nutrition for the Half Ironman when the race gets closer? Listener Chuck also asks: I am doing the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon in May and the water temperature is going to be about 54 degrees for the 1.5 mile swim. Besides my wet suit, are there any other things I can do to not freeze to death in the water. I've heard wearing a second swim cap might help? Thanks Ben, Listener Rick asks: I can't say enough good things about your pod casts. I have gained valued information, thanks! I have heard many good things about Forskolin. What do you know about it? Do you recommend supplementing a training regiment with this herb? Any information would greatly appreciated. In my response to Rick, I mention the forskolin-packed Lean Factor. Congratulations to Rick, who was nominated as the top question for this week's podcast! Rick will receive a free month of membership to the Body Transformation Club, full access to the Club's secret video page, the life-changing piece of Club mail that I will personally send him each week, and much more. To learn more about the Body Transformation Club, click here. Listener Patrick asks: Hey Ben, I wanted to ask you about a very popular brand of nutritional product that I see being sold at many stores and greatly displayed at the MIT Olympic triathlon last weekend. The company is called Pacific Health Labs and they have popular products that has been around for years i.e. endurox R4 and Accelera

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this March 17th free audio episode:Does flax oil actually work, what is inflammation, exercise and beta blockers, is magnesium toxic, hunger levels after biking vs. running, the benefits of cinnamon, when to use fins in the pool, why lamb is a good meat choice, when to eat sugar after exercise, crotch pain on the bicycle, swimming and asthma, and much more! Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic: The results of my essential fatty acid test with Bioleticshave arrived, and in this featured topic, I give Dr. Richard Cohen a call to find out the results, and find out whether the flax seed oil capsules I have been taking are actually working. In this call, Dr. Cohen explains essential fatty acids, why you need them, whether to know if you're getting enough of them, and which sources of essential fatty acids are ideal - and I find out whether I need to make some dietary changes. ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements 1. Ben's Body Transformation Club has officially launched! Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click hereto get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Chris asks: I've heard from several people that inflamation is bad. I believe this is true, but I don't really understand what inflammation really is. Could you explain that? Also, I climb pretty well(on the bike), but tend to gave trouble keeping up on the fast flats of a crit. Do you have any training advice to address this weakness in my cycling? In my response to Chris, I tell him to click here to listen to a recent interview with author Monica Reinagel on the subject of inflammation and health. Listener Chuck asks: I have a question for this weeks podcast. Lately, I have found myself just completely unmotivated to workout. Granted, I'm still getting my workouts in, but come 4 or 5 in the afternoon when I'm heading the pool or gym after work, I just feel completely exhausted. Now and then I just end up going home and taking a nap. I'm only getting about 4-6 hours to sleep at night and I know this has to be part of the issue- you would agree? But are there other reasons that could be adding to this lack of motivation and exhaustion such as a nutritional deficiency- like eating a diet too low in healthy fat or carbohydrates? I am taking most of the vitamins you reccomend. Could it perhaps be from not having the proper revcovery nutrition after my workouts as well? You answered the question I asked about this tonight on the Rockstar Triathlete call (thanks for that) so now I think that could be a reason as well. Thanks so much for you time Ben, only a month and a half till my first Half Ironman! Listener Michael asks: I am a mountain bike racer and i live in the Northeast so I have trouble training outdoors in the winter. I use a trainer but find that when i Do so for over 45 minutes i get testicular pain. I try to get up on the bike a lot to allow blood flow and alleviate the problem but i still get it? Any ideas? Listener Sarah asks: I have a question pertaining to exercise and beta blockers. For about a year I have been taking an 80mg slow release beta blocker (propranalol) as a preventative measure against migraines, I wondered what effect this may have on my heart rate

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this March 10th free audio episode: The top 3 errors made by swimmers, too much fiber, how to decrease your sex drive, probiotics, binge eating in athletes, motivating yourself to workout in the morning, running for cyclists, energy drinks during workouts, late night exercise and sleep, triathlon training during busy weeks, and should you wear flip flops in the locker room? Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic: In today's interview, I speak with Pacific Elite Fitness triathlon coach Eric Petersen, who you can learn more about by clicking here. During our interview, Eric reveals the top three mistakes that he observes beginning swimmers and triathletes commit when they first get in the pool, and also talks about a useful and every inexpensive device you can make at home to help yourself become a better swimmer. ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements 1. Ben's Body Transformation Club has officially launched! Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. As the creator of the 300 page guide to fat loss, entitled "Fat Loss Lifestyle Manual", the designer of the entire "Cardio Intervals DVD Series" and your personal guide in his brand new "Fat Loss Lifestyle Exercise Video Library",personal trainer Darin Steen agreed to be interviewed by me and reveal some of his top fat loss tricks and tips, including some of the very same techniques he uses as personal fitness adviser to Dr. Mercola. You should definitely check out our fat loss interview by clicking here, and watch our video we shot together in New York below: httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBQP5W7hWFI 3. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 4. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click here to get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Lindsay asks: I have a question regarding fiber and eating too much fiber causing gas. I love eating fruits, veggies at all of my meals. I seem to always snack on veggies and fruit, but I feel like it is causing me a lot of excess gas. I also make my own granola which has oats, flax seed dried figs. When I am running it's often uncomfortable. I don't want to reduce my fruit or veggie's because it's all I want to snack on but it's annoying to have what seems like excess gas. Any recommendations on how to curb this or changes to my diet I could make? Listener Frank asks: I am sure this is not the standard question but....My wife and I have very different sex drives and it is a great source of frustration to me. Is there a way to decrease sex drive? I understand that male (and female) sex drive is tied to testosterone and that this is also critical to sports performance and strength so am hesitant to take things like licorice which is known to increase estrogen and decrease the testosterone/estrogen ratio. Any help would be appreciated. In my response to Frank, I recommend his wife listen to this podcast with TS Wiley. Listener Robert asks: Now, first and foremost let me give you a huge shout out to you for making that neat job. I m a regular listener of your educational/constructive podcasts, giving me all along a great motivational boost. Be it nutrition-, or training wise. So please keep us current and post even more valuable scientific updates you gave us thus far galore. And here goes my question: I m drinking sore milk, plus probiot

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this March 3rd free audio episode: An interview with a Chinese herbologist, food labels, how much fat should you be eating, exercise-induced nausea and more on glycerol. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic: This eye-opening audio interview with Roger Drummer, (the man in the video above) is not just about Chinese herbal medicine. It is an expose on how to effectively treat a host of chronic diseases while gaining massive energy and performance benefits. Roger Drummeris one of the best kept secrets in natural medicine and health enhancement, and during out interview he shares his non-run-of-the-mill tactics and philosophies that will change your life, including: The "three treasures" of Chinese herbal medicine and how they can help you feel more energy... Why Roger says that 90% of all disease is stress and chronic inflammation related... As a Chinese herbologist how Roger would approach health conditions that ravage our society... Our deadly habits, why are they deadly and what can we do about them... How Chinese herbs can actually enhance sports performance and sports recovery... How Roger squeezes 42 pounds of Chinese herbs into something called Tian Chi... To listen to an archive of Roger Drummer's radio shows, click here. In addition, you can find out more about Roger's Tian Chi herbal formulation by clicking here. ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements 1. As the creator of the 300 page guide to fat loss, entitled "Fat Loss Lifestyle Manual", the designer of the entire "Cardio Intervals DVD Series" and your personal guide in his brand new "Fat Loss Lifestyle Exercise Video Library",personal trainer Darin Steen agreed to be interviewed by me and reveal some of his top fat loss tricks and tips, including some of the very same techniques he uses as personal fitness adviser to Dr. Mercola. You should definitely check out our fat loss interview by clicking here. 2. The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Prepare to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible. Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and has already mailed the first exercise and nutrition instructions for March, straight to your home! Want to get on board? What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 4. Ever wonder if your swimming technique is all it could be? Want to know if your bike is fit properly, or if you have a good pedal stroke? Would you like to know if your running gait is slowing you down or setting you up for injury? Our online video analysis of swim, bike or run is quick way to get professional feedback, inexpensively. Click hereto get started now with a swim, bike or run video analysis from Ben Greenfield and the team at Pacific Elite Fitness. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Chris asks: Hi Ben, When I look at nutrition labels, I often notice a big dispeaity between the sugar content and total carbohydrate. Doesn't the liver basically convert carbs to sugar for the muscles? I guess what I'm ultimately asking is while I'm looking out for low sugar content in food, should I also be concerned about total carbohydrate content if it's significantly higher than just the grams of sugar. Listener Sofi asks: I've been wondering recently if I am getting too much fat in my diet. Don't get me wrong, its primarily the good fat..nuts, avocados, flax and whatnot...So here is what I am wondering: if my TOTAL calorie intake is kept where it should be, is it possible that getting too much of those calories from good fat is having a negative effect? I am way beyond believing its as easy as calories in/calories out, because all calories are not created equally. For this reason, I don't eat much refined sugar, get my veggies and don't buy things that can live forever on my shelves...But I have this funny feeling I may be going into good fat overdose. So, would you be able to shed some light on how this could be effecting me? Also, if I'm eating 1200-1700 calories (dependi

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this February 24th free audio episode: The Latest Research from The Journal of Strength & Conditioning, Double Chins, Heart Rate Monitors, Testosterone, Soreness, Pre-Race Jitters and Protein! Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Special Announcements 1. As the creator of the 300 page guide to fat loss, entitled "Fat Loss Lifestyle Manual", the designer of the entire "Cardio Intervals DVD Series" and your personal guide in his brand new "Fat Loss Lifestyle Exercise Video Library",personal trainer Darin Steen agreed to be interviewed by me and reveal some of his top fat loss tricks and tips, including some of the very same techniques he uses as personal fitness adviser to Dr. Mercola. You should definitely check out our fat loss interview by clicking here. 2.The 2010 Ironman CDA Triathlon Camp is being taught by Ben Greenfield from Sunday, May 16- Wednesday May 19, 2010, and is specifically designed to completely prepare you for the race course, race day tactics and nutrition and pacing strategies for Ironman Coeur D' Alene! Click here for more information and to register. 3. Ready to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible? Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and accepting 50 new members for March of 2010. What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A Listener Troy asks: Hey Ben, I have a question about spot reduction. I know people always say that it is a myth. However, I used to be a triathlete, and I was very lean. My workouts consisted of lots of intense workouts. I switched my focus to marathon running. I still do some intense training, but obviously I focus much more on mileage and longer slower workouts. Anyways, as I have switched to my marathon training, I have realized that my face is fatter. I am just as lean as I was when I was triathlon training. I have low body fat and you can see my abs but I have more face fat than I ever have. I sortof have a double chin and I am very self conscious about it. It doesnt make sense that someone who is marathon training has this problem. I see people who rarely workout who don't have nearly the fat around their neck/face as I do. I understand that it is probably genetic, but is it possible that the type of training that I am doing affects my fat distribution? If the answer is yes, doesnt this negate the idea that spot reduction is a myth? Finally, is there any way to reduce the fat around my face. I already have very low body fat, and any more fat reduction would require a great deal of sacrifice and supplements. I was wondering if there are any particular exercise I can do that will target this area. Would adding more intense workouts help? Listener Kevin asks: You recently aired an episode about your testosterone levels. You mentioned that yours was 46 and you increased it to the lower 70s with supplementation. Questions: (1) I had blood work done last month and mine was 345. My doctor advised that the range is between 200 and 750. I certainly want to be on the higher end of the range. I supplement my 2100 - 2500 calorie diet (30% Fat, 33% Carb and 36% Protein) with a multi, vitamin D, BCAA, L-Arginine, Fish Oil, Flax Oil and Flax Mill. I also consume whey isolate and casein. I'm in the gym daily - doing cardio 30 to 60 minutes (LISS and HIIT) and weight lighting 5-6 days a week. My Polar monitor records 700 to 1000 calories per workout - typically at 55% body fat burned. I'm 50 years old, 5'11", 195 lbs and 18% body fat. My goal is increase my lean body mass by decreasing my body fat by 5 points. Do you have any ideas on how I can increase my test level? (2) Why do I have a 345 number and you a 46? My exam was via blood and yours saliva but I would think we'd still use the same testosterone scale. No? Listener Lorenzo asks: Can you get low testosterone from being hit in the head (too many concussions)…my doc said that it is a possibility and that it can disrupt your pituitary gland. If the answer is yes, what can you do about correcting it? Listener Elsa asks: I started my strength training a few days ago (squats, push ups, crunches) but it really made my muscle sore and it takes me a few days to recover. Is it that my workout is too intense and too long? Or is that normal? Do all lean people feel a bit sore in their muscles all the time? Thanks! Listener Wendy asks: My husband is downhill ski racing in a week or so and he is working

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this February 17th free audio episode: the latest research on strength and conditioning, timing supplements before exercise, alkaline water, the lemonade diet, women hip issues, more on wheat germ, sitting on exercise balls, which low fiber foods to eat before an event, and death by modern medicine. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic: In this shocking interview with Dr. Carolyn Dean, one of the nation's leading natural physicians, we discuss Dr. Dean's amazing new book "Death by Modern Medicine" . Be prepared to learn the truth about the travesties of modern medicine that are surrounding you, including: -Why modern medical doctors are killing people unintentionally... -How we are being brainwashing by media propoganda and drug companies... -The real truth about modern drugs and "cutting-edge" procedures... -Why cancer is now a multi-billion dollar industry that feeds on fear... -How to conquer your addiction, mis-beliefs and denial about health care... -Information about Dr. Dean's other new book "How To Change Your Life With Magnesium"... -And much more! This is a controversial issue. After listening to this interview, do you agree with Dr. Dean? Do you have issues with her opinions about modern medicine? If you'd like to add your thoughts, please comment below. Just click here for a special offer from Ben Greenfield to immediately download "Death By Modern Medicine" as a free bonus. -------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. Ready to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible? Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and accepting 50 new members for March of 2010. What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The Rock Star Triathlete Academy is now open and accepting charter members for a limited time, and now has a new added "Business of Coaching" section. We've also got a brand new podcast on iTunes that you can subscribe to for free by clicking here. To become a $1 Charter Member simply go to http://www.rockstartriathlete.com. --------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Listener Judy asks: I have taken your advice on the supplements and ordered quite a few which I like. However I'm hoping you can clarify how and when to take the "performance" supplements you suggest. Specifically, I have the race caps supreme, the cordygen vo2, and the CREo2. They all say best used 46-60 minutes before exercise and better on an "empty stomach". How long do I wait to eat, assuming some nutrition is required before an extended period of exercise. Also if I do 2 a days, should they be repeated in the afternoon prior to the next event, lasting approximately an hour or longer. Finally, I have the recover-ease and should that be taken twice as well if there is two exercise periods a day, and should it be taken if you also do a recovery drink? Well, one more question. What are your thoughts about "alkaline H20"? Specifically, will it lessen the effectiveness of any supplements? Visit http://www.pacificfit.net for more information on these supplements, as well as the triathlon training plans and Ironman training camp that Ben mentions. Listener Katie asks: My question for you is this: what has been your experience/thoughts with "the master cleanse"/the lemonade diet? I did it once a couple of years ago (ironically, before I was as health-conscious as I am now) and I remember feeling good when I did it, but I wanted to see what those more informed than I thought about it. Let me know if you can--I'd like to start it soon if it really is something as beneficial as it says it is. Listener Bret asks: On your podcast #51 you mentioned a client you put on HCG. Last summer I went on a 45 day cycle of HCG and dropped about 40lbs. As you know I am 11 weeks out from my Ironman and am maintaing weight...however I really want to drop another 20-30lbs. Would you suggest HCG again? I know that another 20 lbs would really help with my speed and get better results from all the work I am doing, but to do HCG per Dr Simeons protocol says no workouts and I would be working on no calories. Listener Anya asks: Ben, this is my first time commenting on your podcast and I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question. I have a running question for you. I do some running-nothing crazy-but I can easily run 5 miles and up to 8 miles off the couch without any training. I have been noticing that my knees (esp. right one) ar

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this February 10th free audio episode: all about testosterone, whether wheat germ helps you with performance, research on diet coke, getting enough calories, duathlon training, leaning up quickly, saturated fats and magnesium. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic: The results are in! In this week's interview with Dr. Richard Cohen from Bioletics, who you may remember from podcasts #53 (six key performance factors), #62 (Ben's performance testing results) and #72 (essential fatty acids), I find out the final results of my home saliva testing for testosterone, and whether I was actually able to make any difference in my hormone levels by following Dr. Cohen's suggestions. Whether you're a male who is worried about that natural decline in testosterone (called andropause) that occurs after the age of 27, or a female who wants to find out whether she may be overtraining or not losing weight properly, Dr. Cohen tells you everything you need to know about testosterone and hormone testing, including: In my interview with Dr. Richard Cohen, we discuss the following: -The best way to test for testosterone, and why your doctor probably doesn't do it the right way... -Which males and females should actually be testing for testosterone (hint: it's not just elite athletes)... -The exact protocol that Dr. Cohen gave to me to increase my testosterone levels, which were HALF of what they should have been... -Which supplements work for enhancing testosterone, and which you need to stay away from... -The final results of my follow-up testosterone test, and how my hormone levels actually changed... -And much more! --------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1. Ready to re-invent your body and discover how to eat and exercise in the most effective way possible? Ben's Body Transformation Club is now open and accepting 50 new members for March of 2010. What the heck is Ben's Body Transformation Club? You'll need to click here to find out! 2. The Rock Star Triathlete Academy is now open and accepting charter members for a limited time. We've also got a brand new podcast on iTunes that you can subscribe to for free by clicking here. To become a $1 Charter Member simply go to http://www.rockstartriathlete.com. --------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Listener Deb asks: "I've recently heard about a natural supplement which is a wheat germ derivative called Octacosanol. I've read that it enhances athletic performance by increasing the body's ability to use oxygen during exercise. I've also read that it increases endurance by bolstering the oxidative capacity of the muscles and thus helps athletes hang on to glycogen stores. I'm wondering how accurate this information is. If this supplement is that powerful, why is it that it it isn't promoted more for endurance athletes? I am a half Ironman athlete and would love it if this supplement is as fantastic as it sounds." Listener Christina asks: "I absolutely love your podcast, and consider you a rare diamond in the rough among the health and fitness podcasts on iTunes. I am a runner just turned triathlete, and probably have some of the healthiest eating habits of anyone I know. I limit added sugar, empty calories, and processed foods to special occasions only, such as birthdays. On average, I indulge in these foods less than once a month. My plate is always full of vegetables, I'm taking the recommended supplements, drink lots of water, limit alcohol to wine (and only have one glass or so on weekends), and I just love (and prefer to) cook my own healthy, natural foods. Here's my vice: I love Diet Coke. In fact, I can't imagine a workday without it. On workdays, I typically have two, and on weekends about one or so. I never or rarely indulge in more than that. Looking at the ingredients I find Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Aspartame, Phospohoric Acid, Potassium Benzoate, Natural Flavors, Citric Acid, and Caffeine (in that order). I have no idea as to what most of those are. Am I truly doing myself a disservice by drinking Diet Coke, and if so, how? I have not read any medical research that has convinced me to give it up." Listener Jose asks: "I have been listening to your pod-casts for the last 2 weeks, all the new ones and a couple of the older ones available through iTunes. I enjoy the subjects you talk about, and I think your answers and advices are very interesting, for most of the listeners' Q&As. I have 2 questions for you today: The first is regarding a recent e

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this February 3rd free audio episode: what you don't know about sugar, restless leg syndrome, getting rid of sciatic pain, whether something called "Ripped Freak" actually works, appetite suppressing tricks, when to foam roll, marathon before a triathlon, and excessively high heart rates during exercise. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Featured Topic In the first official featured topic of 2010, I introduce you to Nancy Appleton, PhD. You may have read her article (which was featured at BenGreenfieldFitness.com last month) entitled "143 Reasons Sugar Ruins Your Health", which was an excerpt from Nancy's shocking but well-researched book "Suicide by Sugar", which you can look at by clicking here. In my interview with Nancy, we discuss the following: -The author's horrible addiction to sugar, and how she overcame it... -The health risks you probably didn't know are linked to sugar consumption... -Accuracy of scientific statistics about sugar and health... -How much sugar is "too" much... -Which foods contain hidden sugar that you didn't even know about... -How parents can assist children with resisting a development of sugar addiction... -Nancy's "sugarless" recipes (videos of these to come soon to BenGreenfieldFitness.com!)... -An overview of Nancy's book: "Suicide by Sugar", which you can look at by clicking here. --------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1.The Rock Star Triathlete Academy is now open and accepting charter members for a limited time. To become a $1 Charter Member simply go to http://www.rockstartriathlete.com. 2. Ben Greenfield's new book "Triathlon Coach Guide: How to Become A Triathlon Coach"is now available to triathlon coaches to learn how to coach more effectively and use technology while making a career as a triathlon coach. Check it out today by clicking on the book! --------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Paul asks: "Hey Ben. I love your podcast. I was wondering if you have any advice on dealing with Restless Legs. I have read many things relating to the topic but nothing seems concrete. I have been dealing with this for the last six years or so. I never know when it is going to happen. I started taking a multi-mineral supplement in the evening which I was told could help. I feel like it is hit or miss. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Keep up the good work with the show and website!" Listener Rick asks: "Ben, I just started listening to your podcasts and they are very informative...thanks! My question... About 6 months ago I began training for my first triathlon. I love playing other sports like volleyball, and while I was playing I herniated a couple of disks in my lower back. The result has been daily sciatic pain. Do you have any experience with athletes who've experience this mental and physical blow? If so, what advise can you offer to keep spirits high? What exercises should I stay away from? Which should I perform? There are many more questions I have, but I'll let you take it from here. I hope to one day be back on track for my first triathlon." Listener Branden asks: "I'm a 20 year old male from Toronto Canada. I have just begun cycling and spinning and loving it. I have a question for you. 2 years ago I lost 90 lbs doing weights/ intervals and low carb (which I will never do again). I seem to still have a little belly I love to eat great foods (healthy in fact whole grains and wheats). A friend of mine has begun a cycle of a thermogentic product "Ripped Freak" it promises to be the strongest product in North America. He has lost 10 lbs currently and I would like to lose just about that I'm 6'1 and 180 lbs my ideal personal weight would be 170 lbs. what do you think?" Listener Chris asks: "I have a fitness and nutrition question for you. I've dived head first into the world of competitive cycling, and have recently bumped up the intense bike workouts to 3-4 a week. On these intense days, I have a very firm control over my eating habits. However, I've noticed that on my easy days, I tend to get extremely hungry, and sometimes have a hard time disciplining myself to not over eat. I notice I have more control over my eating on the tougher days, most likely because of the appetite suppressing effect of exercise. I thought about going running on these easier days, but then thought th

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this January 27 free audio episode: uric acid in your foods, soy milk choices, bilateral breathing during swimming, are rice cakes OK?, glucose vs. glycogen, beer vs. wine for losing weight, and how to choose your chicken. This is the last week that the podcast from Ben Greenfield Fitness will primarily focus on "Listener Q&A's", since Ben's undertaking of a huge triathlon-focused side project that is going to bring you an instant and affordable way to get customized triathlon training advice LAUNCHES THIS WEEK, ON THURSDAY AT MIDNIGHT! To become a $1 Charter Member simply go to http://www.rockstartriathlete.com. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Listener Curtis Asks: "I'm 59 and I'm finally getting back in shape but gout is making mighty painful at times. I know that there are many foods that a person should stay away from in order to control the uric acid levels but many of those foods are also foods that I need to assist me in other things that I have going on. I have been running and walking through the pain, except at times it's too much. Are there any herbs or supplements that reduce uric acid and can the, already build up of crystalized uric acid be eliminated." Listener Richard asks: "A quick question though regarding my wife. She is both gluten and lactose intolerant and as such consumes much soya milk and products. She has had two children and suffers with more mild ailments (e.g. colds etc) and generally lower energy levels than myself. I was wondering whether you think that the Soya Milk may be a contributing factor to this and whether you suggest that she should mix up her intake with Rice Milk etc." Listener Richard asks: "I listened with interest to your interview with swimsmooth.com and have been trying to make changes to my freestyle stroke. I swam competitively when I was younger and, as such, learned to swim taking my breath over my right shoulder; I am 36 yrs old and that was the method coached at the time. I am finding that adapting to bi-lateral breathing is very difficult. How long do you expect it takes for this new behaviour to become the norm and have you any tips to help me adapt. I am now competing in Triathlon." Listener Chuck asks: "My question is about Rice Cakes. I've always figured these are pretty much a useless form of healthy carbohydrates, but I picked up a bag in the grocery store the other day and, for the plain variety I was looking at, the only ingredient listed was "organic brown rice." This doesn't actually seem like a bad choice? I wouldn't eat them all the time, but they seemed like a nice option for some variation to put some almond butter or lean protein on? What are your thoughts?" Listener Chuck asks: "I know the importance of eating before working out, but how much of what we eat actually fuels that workout, as opposed to the carb and fat stores the body has? If you could explain that briefly that would be great. " Listener Kai asks: "You probably don’t know the answer to this, but I’ll ask anyway – why don’t food labels add up right? I just looked at Subway 6” turkey sandwich on nutritiondata.com and the total kCal don’t tie out to the math (9 kCal per gram for fats, 4 kCal per gram of carb or protein)." Listener Tom asks: "My question would be if i cut down to say a couple of glasses of wine instead of my usual 6 or so beers(low carb). would it be less harmful to my fat avalanch? I'm 24, never had to excercise until say 22, had a slim body no matter what I ate or drunk until the past year or so I've had a dramatic increase in weight and it really is doing me no good, especially being summer time, last thing i want to do is go out for a bike ride in 42 degree heat, just too much. any advice mate?" Listener Tim asks: "Maybe you have addresses this before but what's the truth regarding chicken? Hormones, additives, etc? A butcher told me today that there was no difference since the government prohibited the use of hormones now and that "chicken was chicken." I see some marked as "all natural" etc. But does that mean just at go to market time? I've heard rumors of them pumping the chicken full of growth substances and then "flushing" them before burtcheringso they are "natural" at that time." ----------------------------------------See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this January 20 free audio episode: vitamin D, good carbohydrates, using weight vest and ankle weights for calorie burning, skiing for triathlon training, too much urination during exercise, exercise and hashimotos disease, and how to stay fit when you're partying. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Anonymous asks: Hi there Ben, i have a question on what is considered the safest least injury free running form? heel to toe or midfoot to forefoot? Also any thought on Newton Running shoes? i run in a new pair of Asics pronation support shoe..i roll inward ..ive had trouble with hip and knee when .physical thearpy said hip is rotated and gluteus medius is weak. He also suggested midfoot to forefoot running is better on the body and he wears Newtons. i looked up proper running form and seems more people run midfoot to forefoot as well. Any thoughts or advice on this. Thanks. Anonymous asks: Hi there Ben have a question about the pros and cons to white rice? I eat quinoa rice on occasion and had a couple bobybuilding friends tell me to eat white rice and chicken pre-workout to help increase energy levels. im a triathlete and very clean eater and am anti-white rice. i am struggling with getting enough good carbohydrates in. i rarely eat pastas or rice or potatoes. usually two days out to a race is the only time i eat them. struggling with energy levels and recovering and my friends suggested it was due to no substatial carbs. i eat quinoa oats in the a.m on a swim and bike day and weight days/ run days i go with egg whites in the a.m. Any helpful advice? THanks Listener Sal asks: Hey Ben, I have a question regarding weight vests and ankle weights. I am a student, and I spend much of my time in the library or in class sitting down. However, I do walk quite a bit to and from class, going up lots of stairs throughout the day as well. I was wondering how beneficial it would be to throw on some ankle weights or even a weight vest underneath my clothes. Since it is winter, and i am usually wearing pants or a sweatshirt anyways, I doubt anyone would notice. Would this extra weight cause any substantial calorie burn throughout the day? Would it build leg and general body strength? Also, what are the downsides to having this stress on the body for such a long period of time. I am not expecting much from this idea, but thought that positive effects might be worth it since it would take up no additional time in my day. I would appreciate any suggestions or comments on this topic. Thanks, Sal Listener Lance asks: How can alpine skiing fit into "off season" base building? I am an avid skier who lives 4 hrs away from the hill, but still manage 30+ days a year from school vacations and weekends. In the past, I just skied until the snow ran out, then went mountain biking until it snowed again. This year I want to participate in a long triathlon season, so endurance training is the priority. Unfortunately, skiing is an anaerobic sport, and in the past it kept me unfit on the bike. I am unsure about how to balance the sports. There are two points of conflict: Weekends: Usually the only available time either to ski or do long rides or runs. Spring: There is often quite an overlap between spring skiing and training that needs to be done for spring races. How can I fit together my disparate interests so I can enjoy the ski season, but still have reasonable fitness for spring Xterra races? Listener Diane asks: Ben, I don’t know if you have ever come across anything like this but I am getting desperate. My docs are stumped. For the last few years during stressful exercise(mostly races) of any length I start urinating every 10-15 min copious amts. I am very competitive and successful (won my age group in Kona this year), and this is negatively impacting my times as you can imagine. If it starts during a triathlon usually doesn’t start until the bike portion. If a marathon usually after first hour. It is rare for it to happen during training unless out very hard for long time. I don’t feel bad just very wet. My primary doctor thought maybe diabetes insipidus and gave me DDAVP to take before race. This worked maybe twice. He sent me to urology who didn’t feel they could help. I take electrolytes and have tried different ones and it doesn’t change anything. During a recent Ironman event in Nov at mile 20 on the bike I started every 15 min and then on the run hit the portapotty every mile. This is an example of how it usually goes. If you have any suggestions I would

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this January 13 free audio episode: how to pick supplements, tylenol PM for sleep, what are oxalates, coffee in the evening, multivitamins and urine color and how to run faster. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected] don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Kai asks: "Here is a fundamental question regarding nutrition – how can the average person make educated decisions on what their intake should be? There is a massive amount of information out there regarding what people should / should not eat or take in terms of supplements, but the challenge is deciphering what is valid science and what is marketing. Good recent example – I know you had a podcast on fish vs. flax seed oil and the verdict was flax seed. At an intuitive level the analysis made sense to me. I opened up the recent issue of Men’s Fitness, and there is a small paragraph about some study that concluded flax seed was linked to something bad (don’t have the article in front of me now). It seems very difficult at times to make intelligent decisions given the volume of conflicting information out there. Any guidance on some basic principles / rules?" Listener Bryan asks:"Do you have any thoughts on the use of Tylenol PM. Even with heavy training and being tired I still have sleep issues of falling to sleep or being such a light sleeper I awaken thru out the night. To overcome such I have been using the Tylenol PM but don't like and wondered about using it often." Listener Jason asks: "What are oxalates and should I be concerned eating too many of them if I especially enjoy eating foods such as sweet potatoes and spinach? I have also read about certain foods containing "enzyme-inhibitors" and was wondering if this is the same as oxalates and if those should possibly be avoided as well?" Listener Tracey asks:"I am interested in finding the best resource(s) on functional training, and wondered if you could tell me what you recommend. I live in Canada where I have just begun to teach “CAGE Fitness” classes, and I’m a certified personal trainer who does in-home training with clients who have little or no equipment. I bring along bands, and some light weights, but I am limited in the amount of weight I can bring to my clients. I am new to personal training, but I have been doing MMA for a few years and have found that bodyweight and functional training are the best for overall fitness, and I’d like to have an arsenal of funcitonal training exercises that range from beginner to expert to use with my clients." Ben recommended to Tracey the free exercises photos and videos at http://www.pacificfit.net, as well as the highly function moves in the book at http://www.shape21.com. Listener Pete asks: "You talk about green tea or coffee in the morning before going for the morning movement session, and was wondering about any similar protocol before bed. I've been making sure I eat at least 2 hours before sleeping, though am curious to know if there is any benefit/adverse effect from drinking coffee or green tea within that 2 hour period before sleep or should I just stick with water? Obviously, some people have trouble sleeping as a result of the caffeine, though I never really have this problem." Listener Jason asks:"Been listening to your podcast for a few months now and just had a question for you. I have recently started taking a multivitamin and have noticed that the color of my urine is much more yellow than it was previously. I typically drink a lot of water during the day and always have clear to lightly colored urine, so I don't think that dehydration is responsible for this change. I'm guessing that this color difference is due to excess vitamin which is not absorbed by the body being excreted in the urine. My question is, is this safe? By ingesting more of certain vitamins and minerals than my body is using, am I making my kidneys work overtime to get rid of the excess? The point of taking the multivitamin is to benefit my health; I want to make sure that I'm not unknowingly damaging it. Also, if you think it is okay to continue use, are you familiar with this product and do you think it is a good choice for multivitamin? Many thanks for your help, and love listening to your show." Listener Lisa asks: "New to your podcast (which I think are awesome) and new to triathlon. I did a few sprint distance races last year and my goal is a

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this December 29, 2009 free audio episode: which exercises actually work for your abs, working out when you're sore, excessive sweating, hamstring injuries, fat burning enzymes, and whether swimming pools are actually healthy. Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player just e-mail [email protected]. And don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Christine asks: "I recently read that traditional abdominal exercises like crunches can put strain on the hip joint and lower back, and they aren't really good anyways since the abdominal muscles are really for stabilization, not for moving the sternum closer to the pelvis. Also a lot of those exercises seem to use the hip flexors instead of core muscles. I noticed in your core exercise video you don't do any crunches. Can I ditch the traditional crunches and ab machines at the gym and still get nice definition & core strength if I follow a routine like the one in your video?" Listener Patrick asks: "I started the Tri Dominator program this week and kicked it off with Superset Series I. I tried to follow "pick a weight that puts you almost to failure by the last rep" advice, a dumb move when you haven't squatted in a year. Needless to say I've been very sore and stiff ever since. I could only grind out a 30 min TT compared to the prescribed 40 min TT for my bike LTHR test and didn't work out at all yesterday. I was just wondering 3 things: 1) Was my LTHR test accurate? 2) What should I do workout-wise until my quads and glutes stop hating me? 3) What should I change, if anything, in the weight room to prevent this from happening again? Become a big fan of the podcast. Thanks for everything you do." Listener Eric asks: "When I work out, I sweat – I mean I sweat a LOT…buckets if you will. After a long spin or a high intensity training effort, I am drenched to the point that it looks like I went for a dip in the pool in my tri top/bottoms. I have figured out my needs for hydration in ½ iron races, marathons, etc., however, I sure would like to be less sweaty while engaging in the sports I love and while training for them. I have heard of runners soaking their feet in Epsom salts the night before a race in order to keep their feet from sweating too much the next day – would a viable solution be for me to draw a bath mixed with Epsom (or magnesium) salts and soak my entire body?" Listener Andy asks: "Do you have any recommendations for how to train around a nagging hamstring? Should I focus on just the swimming for a month or swimming and biking but long endurance workouts in the pool and long small chain ring rides on the bike? I'm in no rush as far as my first Ironman event although I would like to start your program soon and have Ironman Canada at the end of August as my goal. It pains me mentally to have this hammy problem because the run will be the difference for me in qualifying for Kona or not. Right now swimming 2.5 miles in about an hour is not a problem and I don't think a 5 hour bike will be a problem either...its really that sub 3:30 marathon that is my weak spot...thus the frustration in not being able to focus my training around the run. I guess I'm looking for what you think will be the best ways to improve fitness right now as I try and let this hammy heal. The hammy is not serious right now...just slight discomfort if I try and go hard...which is why I haven't...so I still haven't wrecked anything to where I need a couple months off or anything." Listener Arturu asks: "Hey Ben. I am a fitness professional and I recently came across your website about six weeks ago. I have been consuming as much of your info as possible. I pride myself on the never ending hunger for new ideas and theories on training and diet for my clients. I just got your video and I was wondering if you could go a little more in depth about not eating two hours before bed and then sleeping eight hours and then going another hour plus exercising without food. That is eleven hours. Would you not be at a catabolic state at that point?" Listener David asks: "I briefly skimmed through some internet blogs and read one on dangers lurking in the swimming pools. Most triathletes visit these pools quite often. I didn’t have much time to read the entire blog thoroughly It said something about how organic material such as hair, skin, dried sweat and urine reacts with chlorine to produce some bad stuff, something call

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode This December 23, 2009 free audio episode features the following topics: more talk about good fats, all about gluten, ideal body weight for triathlon, corn syrup vs. high fructose corn syrup, brain-boosting supplements and how to use quinoa. But before you go any further in the shownotes...check this out... For the next 4 weeks, the podcasts from Ben Greenfield Fitness will primarily focus on "Listener Q&A's", due to Ben's undertaking of a huge triathlon-focused side project that is going to bring you over 12 free live teleconferences with triathlon pros and coaches over the next 6 weeks! For more information on that project, and to stay in the loop on what's going on with that project (called the Rock Star Triathlete Academy) simply go to http://www.rockstartriathlete.com. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener John asks: "Ben, A friend of mine recommended that I email you with a problem I have. My wife has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at 39 years of age. She has a real problem with working out and exercising, if she could work out 10 days a week... she would. The arthritis is in her right hand index finger and beginning to spread to her wrist. She is very upset because working out with weights is painful, riding a trainer or spinning is painful and many pilates moves and yoga moves can't be performed due to her range of motion. The only thing she has left is running. There is a secondary underlying issue... We are trying to conceive as well and most of the drugs the doctor will prescribe cause birth defects. Can you supply and help at all with supplying some homeopathic remedies and other exercises that will circumvent the pain generated by other exercises in her hands and wrist. I feel awful for her because exercise is such a huge part of her life. She is an incredible athlete and loves a healthy lifestyle." Listener Todd asks: "My prime focus right now has been to work on enhancing recovery, staying healthy and reducing injury. I’m doing several things differently this season, and I’d love to hear any other suggestions from the triathlon community. After hard workouts, I immediate fuel with whole food carbs and protein (something I’ve never done before, as I’m usually not hungry after a hard effort). I use a topical Magnesium spray (5 sprays per appendage) that I leave on for 15 mins, and then shower. Once per week I also have an Epsom salts bath to increase Magnesium absorption. I usually take a Recovery day on Fridays, but I move it up in the week if I’m tired or sore. During this day, I do a stretching session with a roller, focusing on my IT band, piriformis and SI joint which can tighten up. I also pay close attention to nutrition, choosing as many anti-inflammatory foods as possible. I think in the past, inflammation has been my prime source of injury and lack of recovery. Finally, a number of supplements have significantly impacted my ability to recovery and stay healthy. I use a salt solution from Himalayan Crystal Salt first thing in the morning, and 5 drops of Oil of Oregano under my tongue before bed. Lastly, I am taking Flax Seed oil (in capsules), a Green Food supplement and 5000 U.I. of Vitamin D every day with my breakfast. Since using this protocol, I have not been sick once and am sleeping very soundly. Currently, my training hours equal about 6-8 hours per week. I complete 2 High Intensity training sessions per week and am able to recover. I am wondering if I will still be able to recover well once I ramp up to 12-14 hours per week. Is there something more I can do? My only fear at this point is burn-out or injury due to the increased intensity so early in the season. Right now I am simply paying attention to what my body is telling me, and mixing in a recovery day when I feel a bit sore or tired. Do have any other recommendations to ensure I don’t become overtrained or increase my chance of injury?" Listener Chuck asks: "One question I have is I would like to be more competitive at Ironman but I'm 5'9" 180 lbs and have 14% body fat. If I keep my bone and muscle mass and try to get to around 10-11% body fat (which for a 44 year-old seems pretty low) I'm still at 175 lbs. That just seems too heavy. The number that floats around in my head for a racing weight is 165-168, but I don't know if losing muscle in order to get to that weight will pay off in a lower body weight. Do you have any quick thoughts on that? Here's a question as well-- I was eating a Balance bar the other day in a pinch for a snack, and when looking at the ingredients it had "corn syrup" in it. Is there a difference between corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup, and if so,

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode This December 16, 2009 free audio episode features the following topics: organic food labeling, low blood sugar in athletes, buffering lactic acid, and what your doctor may not tell you about cholesterol. But before you go any further in the shownotes...check this out... Final note before we get the shownotes...for the next 6 weeks, the podcasts from Ben Greenfield Fitness will primarily focus on "Listener Q&A's", due to Ben's undertaking of a huge triathlon-focused side project that is going to bring you over 12 free live teleconferences with triathlon pros and coaches over the next 6 weeks! For more information on that project, and to stay in the loop on what's going on with that project (called the Rock Star Triathlete Academy) simply go to http://www.rockstartriathlete.com. ---------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener David asks: "I listened to podcast #52 and recently viewed the film Food, Inc. My question is around the labeling of "organic". In food stores many products are labeled organic with a USDA certification stamp. I am a little cautious of gov't certifications. For example, I am aware of and you have spoken about how food manufacturers manipulate the serving size and such which allows them to claim no trans fat, when in fact there is trans fat in the ingredients. Being able to claim something and manipulate rules is common when dealing with any gov't agency, such as the USDA. How accurate is "organic" labeling in our food supply? Could there really be GMO and other bad ingredients in the organic labeled food that has been hidden due to rules which allow not reporting of such ingredients and methods of farming not considered organic in the true sense of the term? Thanks." Listener Payam asks: "Hey Ben, I have a question regarding low blood sugar. I am a 23 year old male. I recently went to my doctor and took a blood test. It wasn't for any particular reason, but my parents just suggested that it would be good to get some data on file because of family history. Anyways, I gave some blood samples and was waiting for the doc in the room. All of a sudden, a nurse comes into the room and looks at me and asks if I am okay. She looked very worried, and I told her that I am fine. She said that my blood sugar is dangerously low. I believe it was like 35 or so. I told her that I feel normal. She asked what I had for breakfast and I told her that I had an omellete with onions, peppers, and tomatoes. She asked me if I would drink an orange juice because it would "make her feel much better" which I agreed to. Anyways, I would assume that this low blood sugar wasnt some sort of fluke because I honestly felt totally normal. I generally eat almost no sugar. My diet consists of lots of vegetables, grass fed beef, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts and nut butters, grass fed dairy. The only grains I really eat are ezekiel breads and cereals, quinoa, and steel cut oats. I am a marathon runner and have had no problems with low energy. I dont really eat that much fruit although probably a few servings a week. Usually when I do eat fruit, I eat it only around workouts. When I do have dessert for a special occasion, it is usually after dinner when more fat and fiber has been consumed so it probably has a minimum effect on blood sugar anyways. I never really thought about this, and its not like I am trying to minimize my sugar intake. I just try to eat healthy and unprocessed foods that I enjoy. However, am i doing more harm than good? What are the dangers of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar?" Listener Eric asks: "Ben, I have read and heard a lot about ‘pills’ that you can take during an endurance race that are supposed to help keep your PH levels alkaline. Obviously, keeping Ph levels more on the alkaline side is good for endurance racing, but do any of them really do what they claim to? I’ve seen “PhIT Pills”, Race Caps by Hammer, Bata Alanine products, etc….do any of them really work?" One of Ben's coached triathletes asks: "Have just recently gone for my "WELCOME TO MEDICARE" physical and the doctor wants me to check out LDL lowering as a preventive since there's a family history. Your most recent recommendations are for more animal products (red meat) and unfortunately I'll have to try to avoid them. I will have to find a "fine line" where I can get naturally occurring protein and at the same time eat to provide good energy/muscle building sources in order to move forward in my training (should be interesting). Since I am one of your "SENIOR ATHLETES", it may be of help to you to have me struggling with these little "roadblocks" . Hope you will remain open to training "BOOMERS" in the future!" --

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and subscribe for free or leave feedback. In this free December 2 audio episode: electrical stimulation devices, amino acid supplements, high protein diets, food allergies, barefoot running, the fathead movie, creatine, cramping, and much more! But before you go any further in the shownotes...check this out... ...new release - $4 Special This Week! "Get Fit or Get Fat - Ben Greenfield's Healthy Triathlete Off-Season": In this 70 minute audio seminar from triathlete coach Ben Greenfield, you'll learn exactly what you should be doing in this winter to prepare for the 2010 triathlon season. Discover the perfect swim, bike, run and cross-training workouts, as well as the ideal off-season nutrition and dietary supplementation protocol. This lecture is perfect for the beginner triathlete up to the seasoned Ironman. Click here to get unlimited access to Get Fit or Get Fat - Ben Greenfield's Healthy Triathlete Off-Season", the full audio seminar for just four bucks! Don't worry, the link above will open in a new window, so you can still read the shownotes! --------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: In this featured topic interview, I talk to physical therapist David Markovich about the use of electrical stimulation devices (also known as "ESD's" or "e-stim"). You may have seen these advertised in commercials for fat loss, muscle performance and injury rehabilitation. The question is...do they really work? During our interview, I ask David the following questions: -What is the mechanism of action for estim to actually help with recovery or performance? -Can an estim unit actually maintain or enhance muscular fitness or endurance? -What about fat loss? Does electrical stimulation actually work as a fat loss enhancing tool? -Where can people actually get a home estim device? -What types of injuries or activities can estim be used for? -What are the guidelines for using a device, and should anybody avoid using electrical stimulation? Listen to the interview with David to find out the truth about electrical stimulation devices! --------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Patrick asks: "Ben, I have a question regarding MAP, the product you featured in Podcast Episode #26 as well as your most recent post on bengreenfieldfitness.com . I've seen the product advertised in magazines for some time now and have always been interested in its potential benefits. On a recent trip to the local health food store I saw several different amino acid supplements, all costing between $12-15 for a month's supply. What's more, they all claim a serving size to be 2-3 pills and caution use of more than 4-6, compared to MAP's 20-30 per day depending on age, size, diet and exercise load.What are your feelings on MAP vs. other amino acid replacement supplements? Is MAP the clear winner across the board? And does it justify the $53 + shipping price tag?" (click here to read Bens' previous post about MAP) Listener Amie asks: "I wondering what your thoughts are on a high protein diet. I am not referrring to the Adkins. There has been some "buzz" (agian) about high protein diets. The suggestion for a typical day is oatmeal w/protein pwdr and soy milk for breakfast, then mid morning protein shake, 2 slices of whole grain bread w/thick layer of organic meat (poultry preferred) no mayo and veggies if you wish and then salad or steamed vegetable with brown rice and lean organic meat for dinner. The days snacks suggestions are raw veggies and/or fruit or raw almonds. I have heard mixed feedback on whether this is an ideal lifestyle choice. I recently heard too much protein (regardless of the carb combination) can be toxic, is that true? And, will excess protein pack on the pounds (even if exercise regularly)?" Listener Miguel asks: "I have bought your book "Holistic Fueling for Ironman". I find that you are really capable to change people view about Powerbar and other brands that only care about profit. When I drink milk or eat whole wheat bread and then after 1-2h will head to a run most of the times I have GI distress. Does that mean that I have allergies to cow milk or wheat/gluten products?" Listener Lisa asks: "Just wanted to write in with a question of my own this week. It has to do with running gear. What are your thoughts on barefoot and minimalist running shoes? Out here in Southern California, there's been a lot of hype lately about barefoot running and minimalist shoes, such as Vibram Five Fingers. Barefoot enthusiasts cla

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this free November 25, 2009 audio episode: performance enhancing mouthpieces, cannibalizing muscle mass, protein for vegetarians, pre-workout eating, the podcast awards, and is there really any reason not to eat breakfast? By the way, did you get your free Thanksgiving Fitness Survival Guide yet? Click here to get it now (will open in new window). Featured Topic (Please vote for our podcast at http://www.podcastawards.combefore November 30!): Today's featured topic is an interview with Bob Molhoek and Dr. Dena Garner. As CEO of Bite Tech Industries, Mr. Molhoek has vast experience in sports, retail, and health and wellness, and passion for enhancing performance in the military as well as the gaming and recreation industries. As an independent researcher, Dr. Garner is a professor in the Health, Exercise and Sports Science Department at the Citadel. Through her independent research, Dr. Garner has led all of Bite Tech’s research efforts at the Citadel including reaction time studies, rifle team studies, and cortisol, lactate, and endocrine studies. In our discussion, we talk about the new Under Armor Mouthpiece, and include talk about: -How a mouthpiece could actually reduce lactate levels, improve oxygen uptake, or decrease cortisol... -What sports a mouthpiece could be used for, and which top-ranked professional triathlete is already using one... -How the device actually fits in the mouth, and how to use it... -Exactly what you need to do if you want to get your hands on one... -Whether I'll actually be trying one of these mouthpieces for myself... -And much, much more! Stay tuned for more updates on whether a mouth piece can actually make you more fit, and enjoy the interview! --------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A (please vote for our podcast at http://www.podcastawards.com before November 30!): Do you have a question for Ben? Just call 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail, leave a Skype voicemail to username "pacificfit", or e-mail [email protected]. Listener Jennifer asks: "Recently I've been in the process of turning vegetarian due to some ethical reasons. As an athlete I'm worried I won't be able to get protein in my diet due to the elimination of meat. Are there any substitutes I could make to help this? I've heard some controversy on soy and how it could actually damage our bodies, so I'm afraid to use that type of product. Do you think this transition is good for me as an athlete or will it only cause more damage in the end? Thanks Ben!" In my response to Jennifer, I reference this Kenzen Body Balance Meal Replacement drink, comprised of pea and hemp protein. Listener Brad asks: "Greetings from Melbourne, Australia. My first question is, do you know of any effective ways to shed muscular bulk/ I remember hearing in one of your podcasts that you went through a bodybuilding phase in your past, and that your first few triathlons afterwards (specifically your runs) were some of the most painful races you’ve done. I am in the process of getting ready for a series of half-ironman races next year (our seasons are reversed) with the goal of culminating my season with a full ironman. Hence my purchase of the Dominator plan (great info, by the way). Here’s the problem, I’m coming off a year of intense CrossFitting which has sent my anabolic fitness through the roof, but bulked me up to about 90kg (I’m 178cm tall) in the process. How can I best get rid of this bulk? It’s killing my knees and back on the runs. I’m taking a full range of supplements at the moment based on your recommendations, however, I am hesitant to take any protein supplements. How did you shed your muscle mass? My second question relates to running efficiency. I am familiar with the Pose running method and am slowly building my proficiency in this technique. However, given a recent case of runner’s knee, I would like to incorporate a more targeted set of exercises geared towards strengthening my running technique. I’ve heard that Craig Alexander puts a lot of focus on building his core strength. I am currently doing lunges, one legged squats, fire hydrants and recently, hip hikes." Listener Jennifer asks: "I love your podcasts and all the advice you give to athletes and non-athletes. I have a nutrition question for you. I eat alot of Vitamin A/beta-carotene products, and for the past couple months my hands and feet are starting to turn orange. The doctor tells me that in the long term I could be damaging my liver. Do you have any advice on how I could substitute some of my food products? I'm currently eating pumpkin puree mixed in with my oatmeal in the morning, and then after my workouts I tend to eat a sweet potato with some almond butter. I'm trying to stick to vegetable products that can give me carbs as well as some substinence to my meals. I don't want to ha

Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this free, November 18 audio episode, listener Q&A's on whether hormones are suppressed from endurance training, what to do about fat legs, question from a 430lb man, how many repetitions of a weightlifting exercise gives you the best results, and TWO bonus videos! --------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: This week's featured topic includes TWO bonus videos! Bonus Video #1: Ben demonstrates a very effective and short workout that you can do in your office! httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7ATrQPSwfE Bonus Video #2:Ben demonstrates to make a green super-smoothie (great for fat loss or nighttime snacking)... httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7NxXUNrHc8 Bonus Audio: Click here to download a recent audio interview that Ben did about his 7 Keys to Training For Ironman With Minimum Time Commitment Listener Q&A: Listener Greg asks: "Hi Ben, I've recently found your extremely interesting podcast. Thank you. Especially interesting was this last podcast as it is a topic near to me these days.I live in Canada and am what you call a serious hobby endurance athlete. I am 31, been doing endurance sport for 18 years. The first 12 years I competed as an elite cyclist. At 25 I quit this and started running marathons. I do it as a hobby, but 236 is my pr. In the past 5 months I have my blood tested 4 times and each time has shown low testosterone (aver 5.5 nmol/L) and also LH (aver 1.0 IU/L). I live in Canada so things move slow, I see the endocrinologist next week, where I expect him to schedule a mri as i understand this could be pituitary related. My question is, I know our hormonal system can be suppressed with endurance training. Can there be long term effects? I've taken this year the easiest in years (nagging injuries)so have not pushed it at all. Could the non recovering injuries be related as well to the low testosterone? Any suggestions on directions, questions to ask? Thanks a lot." Listener Miguel asks:"My name is Miguel and I'm 19 years old. I live and train in Lisbon, Portugal. I am a student in University and I am also a triathlete. As you know triathlon training requires much of my body and I have to eat lot of carbohydrates, proteins and fat. However, to perform better in future races I would like to lose some body fat percentage. It happens that I am skinny on my chest and abdominal area but fat on legs and butt so when I cut some calories I loose only fat on the abdominal area and not on legs and sometimes when I do that performance in training is worse. I weight 61kgs and measure 177cm. What would you recommend me to do?" Listener Jon (430lbs) asks: "I got out of the Navy in 1998, I weighed 205 lbs stood 5 foot 10. I have a large frame for my size. I had a problem adjusting to civilian life and developed depression. Since I was a little kid, I have had Sleep Apnia. It never manifested itself until I got bigger. I am not sure when I went so far down hill but I got there. I used to be a gym rat, loved to run and have fun, etc. but now I can barely walk. I don't want to do the lap band thing. In 2007 I almost died and wound up in the hospital, I also developed cellulitis or lymphedima depending on which doctor you ask. So when I get sick my leg gets infected and blows up requiring a 3 day stay in the hospital requiring alot of meds. I have figured out what medication and just ask for a running prescrip[tion so if I do feel sick I take some to keep the leg under control. Anyway I am telling you all this because I have 3 kids and a wife, I would like to be here to see them grow up. I need help. I have a total gym... I don't even think about going to an actual gym because people look at me like a freak because of my leg enough just walking around. Lately my back has started to bother me and so has my left knee (the side of the infection). Anyway, I mentioned earlier that I had gone into the hospital, well they hollowed out my throat taking out the uvela and tonsils, since then I do not have trouble sleeping. Before my blood pxygen count going to my brain was around a 35 now it's like a 95 or better, so now that I am awake and more alert, I can concentrate on other things. I want to get off my ass and get moving, but I have been dormant so long it is really difficult. Long story short, I downloaded your e-book and now an writing to ask for any advice." --------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1) Ben's quintessential healthy holiday gift guide is now available, and tells you exactly what to get for the health nut, fitness enthusiast, triathlete, or wellness conscious individual on your holiday shopping list. Check it out now by clicking here, and be sure to forward it on to your friends! 2) The new BenGreenfieldFitness cycling shorts and jerseys were released this week to a select group of triathletes and cyclists! If you are interested in getting in on the next order, which will be triathlon shor

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this free November 3, 2009 audio episode, I interview Dr. Roby Mitchell about the swine flu, and answer multiple listener questions about Ice Baths, Carbonated Water, Anorexia, Triathlons, Muscle Spasms and much more! Featured Topic: Dr. Roby Mitchell consults world wide with physicians interested in transitioning their patients onto regimens that take them off drugs and on to healthful regimens using nutrition, exercise, bio-identical hormone replacement, and targeted supplements. and takes a very unique stand on the swine flu "epidemic". In our interview, Dr. Mitchell includes the following topics: -Who needs to be vaccinated against the swine flu, and why... -The potential dangers of vaccination if you don't actually need it... -The exact supplements you should be taking to protect yourself from the swine flu... -How to protect your body before you get on planes, trains and the subway...(including "Oil of Oregano") -What you should do about your children and the swine flu... -How hormone and steroid levels drastically affect your potential immunity to the swine flu... -And much, much more! Be sure to check out Dr. Mitchell's website by clicking here. Listener Q&A: Listener Patrick asks: "I'd be interested in knowing the latest info on ice baths: - Are they helpful or full of hype? - What's the ideal temperature range and immersion time? - Should it be done before or after a warm post-workout shower? - What to do about the grunts/screams/explicatives on initial immersion?" Listener Mark asks: "In an effort to give up soda, i have started to drink carbonated water (Wegmans brand) which is naturally flavored. I drink roughly 36 ounces per day. Are there any health risks associated with drinking carbonated water? I have recently heard that the carbonation depletes your body of calcium....is this true?" Listener Chantelle asks: "I don't know if you have ever addressed this one before, but one of my near and dear friends is addicted to laxatives and then exercises almost to the point of anorexia. But she doesn't know how to get off the laxatives because then she becomes constipated and that, of course, makes her feel fat. She eats a lot of high fiber foods, but even just a bit of salt or bread makes her constipated. Would this be something that you would ever address as far as what she should eat, how to quit, etc?" Listener David asks: "I started listening to your podcasts and really enjoy the informative topics and am slowly making my way through the archived podcasts. Great stuff by the way. I am a triathlete with 3 IMs under my belt, and as we enter the off-season I am presented with a fork in the road decision. Last off-season I subscribed to a training regimen counter to the conventional mainstream in which a training season begins training one’s base and performing long, slow distance workouts at relative mild intensities. Last year my off-season consisted of short duration (hour or less), small volume, but high intensity bike and run workouts to build pure speed. I got significantly faster by several minutes in 10K runs and increased my functional threshold power (watts) on the bike by about 15% during the off-season time. Then as the real training season began, volume and longer duration workouts were put on top of the new speed --- in other words… speed first then build distance on top of that speed. This was quite successful for me last year as I had several breakthrough performances and PRs in several olympic and half-iron distance triathlons. This training philosophy is almost opposite the mainstream ---- build base (ie. long distance, mild intensity), then race specific speed as one nears a race event. My fork decision currently is the two training philosophies above. Many friends insist my prior year speed first approach is crazy, a crash-n-burn approach and adhere to the mainstream approach and that I was just lucky last year. I am curious on your opinion on these two different training approaches, and possibly if other approaches may also be worth considering as a new off-season and soon to be training season begins? Thank you." Listener Eric asks: "I have a few swimming questions that I would like to hear you answer. 1. I am training for open water triathlons where I wear a wet suit but swimming in the pool without one. I have heard some people say that I should use a pull buoy when I train to simulate the wetsuit buoyancy but read an article that says stay away from toys. Does the pull buoy help and if so, what frequency should it be used when training? 2. Swimming is something that I never really did until about a year ago when I decided to start doing triathlons. One thing that I never learned how to do when I was growing up was the flip turn or any other turn method for that matter. When I reach the wall at the other end, I usually stand up for

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode This October 28, 2009 free audio episode is jam-packed with new content, and includes the following topics: powerful motivation techniques for exercise and sports, nutrition news from the Ironman Medical Conference, and massive diet and exercise Q&A! Remember, if you have any trouble listening, downloading, or transferring to your mp3 player, just e-mail [email protected] please don't forget to leave the podcast a ranking in iTunes - it only takes 2 minutes of your time and helps grow our healthy community! Just click here to go to the BenGreenfieldFitness iTunes page and leave feedback. Upcoming episodes include expert interviews on the "Real Truth About Swine Flu", "Hormone Fluctuations in Male & Female Athletes", and "What To Do At The Gym This Winter". Finally, remember all the time put into producing this podcast for you, and consider donating to our showor your supporting the show by grabbing any of the BenGreenfieldFitness active singlets, hoodies and hat available in the BenGreenfieldFitness clothing store. Featured Topic: We've had many of you listeners ask for an episode on motivation and sports psychology. So we got a sports psychologist on the show! With a background in collegiate sports, strength and conditioning (CSCS), and a doctorate in sports psychology, Dr. Bernie Holliday now teaches mental toughness to warriors at the Army Center for Enhanced Performance, and in our interview, he discusses: -How to create for yourself what he describes as a "goosebump goal"... -Why lack of motivation can take place during competition or exercise... -What comes first - mind over muscle or muscle over mind... -How the world's best motivate themselves to exercise, workout, or rise to a new level... -Dr. Holliday's top tips and tricks for self-motivation and pushing yourself through the toughest events... -How different personality types respond to different types of motivation... -And much, much more! In addition to his advice during this interview, Dr. Bernie Holliday has two book recommendations to add to your motivational sports psychology reading list:Golf Is Not a Game of Perfect andNot About the Bike. ----------------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Listener Sarah Asks: "Hi Ben, I was wondering what you think about the I Can't Believe It's Not Butter spray. I have a hard time believing that there is no big amount calories in it but can't find much online that tells me anymore details about it. Do you have anymore insight about the good or bad of it?" Listener Chuck asks: "Here is a question for you. I love steamed vegetables like broccoli and spinach, etc. I usually have a large serving along with my dinner each night. Is it ok to have a really large portion of vegetables, or should I stick to an appropriate portion size like everything else? I figured since they are low calorie and healthy its alright, but I don't want to over-eat. Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it." Listener Charles asks: "Hey Ben. I have a couple questions for you this week I was hoping you could answer. The first parallels the one I asked last week about how much steamed vegetables one can eat. I steamed a butternut squash yesterday and had that as a side along with some brocolli and chicken for dinner. Should I treat foods like butternut squash or acorn squash as carbohydrate side dishes (same as a sweet potato or brown rice) or would they count as a vegetable? Would it have made more sense to balance that meal by having the chicken, butternut squash, and some brown rice? Second, I have read a couple articles lately on "cheat meals/ days" and the importance of them. The principle makes sense-not completely depriving yourself so that you will stay mentally healthy as well as be more likely not to binge and to stay on your program. Some of the articles also talked about the effects these cheat meals or days actually had on the body. The theory was that by eating a cheat meal, like a large burger and fries with a shake, the calories would shock the body and spark the metabolism, making it work differently than the consistent foods it is used to receiving. Some went as far to say that the muscles would store the fat as energy and would burn it in the next workout. I don't know about that last part, but the rest of the theory seems plausible. What's the truth? Lastly, in the last e-mail you sent out on "How to get fat" you criticized Ensure drinks pretty hard. I clearly understand why, but on the other hand, would you advise everyone not to drink them or similar products? When I was in-patient for my eating disorder a couple years ago, we were given Ensure Plus as supplement to help put on weight in a more nutritious manner. I was advised to keep drinking them once I got out until I reached and maintained my goal weight. Training as hard as I do, I st

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this October 21, 2009 free audio episode: understanding your "fat-burning zone", how to break sugar addictions, what number of weightlifting repetitions gets you the best results, a new women's multi-vitamin, mercury in fish, and how tape can fix injuries. Featured Topic: Athletes and weekend warriors are constantly searching for new ways to manage nagging injuries, or allow them to compete in their basketball league, 5K or triathlon without aggravating a sore spot. The latest solution comes in the form of something called "Rock Tape". To give you a more thorough understanding of Rock Tape, I conducted an interview with one of the designers of Rock Tape, Greg van den Dries. During our discussion, Greg explains the concept behind taping your injuries, the difference between Rock Tape and traditional "kinesiology" taping, who can benefit from Rock Tape, and which injuries it can actually be used for. For an example of Rock Tapein action, check out the video below, where Greg uses a taping technique called "The Zapper" to teach you how to quickly address an injury anywhere on your body: httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9VFFjaGS-g If you like what you see, then surf over to Rock Tape where they're offering an exclusive 10% discount to anyone who uses the special discount code "greenfield"! Listener Q&A: Listener Todd asks: "My question this week is around nutrition and curbing sugar craving, especially at night. I'm working hard to control my insulin levels during the day, and for the most part am doing well. However, after a modest dinner I find myself having the strongest cravings for sweet. I am using whole fruits and nuts during the day, and complex carbs before and after workouts. Is my body trying to tell me something with these cravings (i.e. something I'm not getting during the day), or is this just part of breaking the sugar addiction? Anyone else having this challenge at night?" Listener Ace asks: "I follow your podcasts on a weekly basis and read your articles very frequently. i am an avid triathlete and watch mu nutrition very carefully. however, i am a tuna-fish freak, full-protein-packed food source, affordable and very tasty! however, i have read tons of articles about the potential hazard mercury (and maybe other toxins) poses via canned tuna consumption. Any thoughts/solid research studies on this? How can one substitute ? Also, do you think that, even w/ 6 cans of tuna/week (lunch), the potential harm of mercury can be hindered if the diet consists of tons of raw fruits and veggies, mainly greens? Finally, any tuna species that is less prone to toxins than others (light vs albacore or yellow fin)?" Do you have a question? Remember, you can now ask your questions via *audio* to me via the free Skype software by simply “Skyping” me at username “pacificfit“. You can also call toll free to 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail for Ben Greenfield. --------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1) Click here to fill out the new survey on water! 2) We've mentioned the HCG diet a few times on this show, which is a special supplementation and nutrition protocol designed for men and women who have tried literally "everything" for weight loss. You can see the progress of one of Ben Greenfield's clients in the video below. If you have questions about whether or not the HCG diet would be right for you, just e-mail [email protected]. httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCXvjk6J_dY 3) Ben Greenfield has now added two different "women's specific multi-vitamins" to the approved supplements list: EnerEssenceI and EneressenceII. EnerEssence I assists a woman's body in maintaining normal menstrual cycles and promotes a healthy reproductive system. It sets the stage for the future health of your immune, skeletal and cardiovascular systems. EnerEssence II meets the increased nutritional needs caused by physical stress and changes during menopause and supports hormonal balance, helping to make your transition a smooth one. Click here to learn more about either form. You can also e-mail [email protected] if you have questions about women's specific multi-vitamins. 4) The Triathlon Dominator Package is officially live and available with exclusive web-only pricing. You can learn more about exactly how to successfully train for Ironman without neglecting your family, career, hobbies and social life by clicking here, or by clicking on the video below: httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmUSi7b2cNY 5)Click here to get the full scoop on the brand new Pacific Elite Fitness Triathlon Training Camp in Austin, Texas - including registration details, itinerary, food, training, activities and much more! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get a fantastic deal on a camp because the Endurance Ranch in Austin has just opened and is offering Pacific E

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this October 14, 2009 free audio episode, I cover the following topics: bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, how older athletes should train, hamstring injuries, and triathlon training camp details. Featured Topic: This week's featured topic is an interview with T.S. Wiley, who is the creator of The Wiley Protocol and an expert in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). The heart of Wiley’s endocrine research is based in chronobiology and circadian rhythmicity, and rests on the simple fact that the circadian clock in every cell of every human body measures one spin of the earth, and the moon tracks 28 days 13 times in one revolution around the sun. This light and dark cycle response on hormone receptors has evolved the 28 day menstrual cycle embedded in the physiological make-up of all women. That’s why replacing hormones for women with static one-time-a-day, same-amount-every-day, dosing has been so unsuccessfully lethal that most women get sick and some women die whether they take synthetic or bio-identical hormones in such a non-natural regimen. After years of research, T.S. Wiley created The Wiley Protocol, a patent pending delivery system consisting of bio-identical estradiol and progesterone in topical cream preparations dosed to mimic the natural hormones produced by a twenty year-old woman. The creams and their amounts vary throughout the 28 day cycle to mimic the hormone levels of youth. The Protocol is the only bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) that has ever been developed under the scrutiny of a practicing oncologist. And now, developments are also being made for men! During the course of our discussion, Dr. Wiley explains: -why this is a crucial issue for not only women, but also men -the severe problems with current hormone replacement approaches -the best way for you to find natural hormone replacement therapy where you live -BHRT considerations for athletes, men or even couples trying to conceive -why girls are now developing so much earlier in life -and much, much more... To learn more visit the website of The Wiley Protocol or e-mail [email protected]. --------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Listener Paul asks: "First off, love your podcasts. Always tons of useful information. My question is on triathlon training for older athletes (60+). I'm 61 yr. old and have been running for 32 yrs. All the training regimens I read about seem to be geared for the younger triathlete. What kind of adjustments should an older athlete make in relationship to training mileage, intensity, and recovery for the Ironman distance. Any help would be appreciated." Listener Gord asks: "Hi Ben, I really like your pod cast and enjoyed your coverage of Kona. I need your opinion on a problem I am having. This past season I had problems with my hamstring, I began having ART at least two times a week beginning in June. This had no results , however today during my visit my ART specialist suspected that I may have a S.I. joint misalignment and could be causing my Hamstring issues. I remember you had a show on the S.I. joint , but truth be told I didn't pay much attention to it....now you got my attention. Could a S.I. joint cause Hamstring tightness and pain? Could you please tell me the episode # again so I could relisten." In my answer to Gord, I reference the convenient Ben Greenfield Fitness podcast feed, which lets you quickly access any of the previous podcasts (in this case, I tell Greg to listen to Podcast #13 and #49). Listener Jason says: "I just wanted to give you some feedback on advice that you gave me recently. you might remember in september i did my first sprint tri and had severe stomach cramps on the run leg as i over fueled and over hydrated. well i recently competed in the US open sprint event which was a little longer than the other one however the run was the same distance. I took your advice and had a small breakfast 2 hours before the race, had a couple gu's during the race and only consumed about three quarters of 1 water bottle as it wasn't hot, in fact it was in the 50's. after the 800m swim and 40k bike ride we had the 3.1 mile run which my previous time was 28 minutes with the cramps. with your advice i smashed that time by 5 minutes finishing it in 23 minutes and finishing 5/45 in my 30-34 age group and 31st overall." Listener Rex says: "My wife is a nurse who has trained our children on nutrition and healthy eating. Just prior to your announcing your revised Shape 21 program a few months ago, I was planning to start on another fitness program. My son tried to talk me out of it because the suggested supplements did not meet his standards of being "good for you" ("garbage", "chemicals", and "poisons" were the words he used). Just before beginning, I received David Morgan's email that contained h

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this free October 5, 2009 audio episode special edition recorded from Kona, Hawaii: what you don't know about bone density, recommendations on food combining, healthy saturated fats, whether you burn more calories in hot weather, off-season training tips, how to become a better cyclist and Ben's Ironman 2009 Hawaii Coverage from http://www.everymantri.com (link will open in new window so you don't have to close this one!) . Featured Topic: In today's featured topic, I interview Dr. Carolyn DeMarco. Dr. DeMarco is the author of the The Bone Building Solution - (2006) and the best selling book on women's health, Take Charge of Your Body, Women's Health Advisor (Well Women Press, revised 1997). Recommended by women's groups across the country, this book is the gold standard for women's health information. Her 2nd book is a mini-encyclopedia on natural remedies, Doctor DeMarco Answers Your Questions (Well Woman Press, 2000). Click here for an Amazon list of Dr. Carolyn DeMarco's fantastic books! During the interview, Dr. DeMarco stresses several important points, including: -Who needs to worry about bone density (hint: not just older females)... -The underlying causes of low bone density.... -The best supplements and foods to put into your body to increase bone density... -The increased risk among some people who begin building bone density too late in life... -And much more! ----------------------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Listener Christine Asks: "Hi Ben, I just tried a hot yoga class and a friend of mine mentioned that you can burn up to 1000kcal per 90 minute session. This seemed to be on the high side & I got real curious about it. A quick google gave me an estimate of 300-1000kcal per hour. I understand that my heart rate goes up and the heart works harder to keep me cool, but does my system really work that much harder to burn so many calories? I did an experiment after my tabata workout at the gym and got into the sauna. After about 5 minutes my heart rate was about 85 bpm and after about 10 min it was close to 100bpm. I plugged in two numbers into a calculator I found at http://www.triathlontrainingblog.com/?page_id=483. The first was my resting HR in a hot environment of 100bpm and the second was an estimate of my max HR doing hot yoga, about 160bpm. The calculator gave me 361 and 942 calories respectively. I don't know my VO2 max so just used the suggested number of 35. I don't know the math behind the calculator, but was wondering if this is an accurate way of estimating calories burned in warm/hot environments (with heart rate) or if you know of a better way. I often see weight trainers at the gym all bundled up in sweats and wondered if this is really a good way of burning more energy and if I too should bundle up and hit the hot yoga class or sauna more often!" Listener Chuck Asks: "I had a question on choosing real butter vs. trans-fat free margarine products so I went back and listened to podcast 12 where you talked about butter and saturated fats. As you discussed, I've read a lot lately about the a moderate amount of saturated fats from butter and other products being healthy for the body. From the natural, unprocessed sources of course. With regards to this, are all saturated fats equal? Would the saturated fat in butter be the same as that in bacon and the same as that in say a 96% lean ground beef? Obviously, the overall consideration here is the amount of total fat in each product when it comes to making decisions about which to eat (bacon has more then lean beef). But in terms of the saturated fats in these various foods, are they all equally "healthy"?" Listener Todd Asks: "Ben, I listened to this Podcast #53 and #62, and have to say I was blown away. I had no idea that the typical non-pro athlete had access to this level of nutritional analysis. Thanks for being the guinea pig, and sharing your results. My question is that if you had to choose between Performance Testing (i.e. Blood lactate threshold testing, VO2MAX, etc.) or this type of testing from Bioletics, which one would provide more/better insight to your optimal performance? I think I already know the answer, but was curious to hear your take on this." Listener Rob Asks: "Have you ever come up with what type of foods to eat with each other? We usually only eat beef once a week and when we do eat it it’s usually with vegetables, but wanted to know if you have ever put a plan like that together." Listener Cindy asks: "If I plan use the Triathlon Dominator Package to do an IronMan in November 2010 – what should I be doing during the months of November 2009, December 2009, and January 2010? I’m also interested in post IM." Also, Chuck calls in with a question about how to become a better cyclist, and Jason calls in with a question about the off-season of a

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Time to found out the truth about the hidden health risks inside the body of a personal trainer and nutritionist! In this September 30, 2009 free audio episode, I discover the results of my blood, urine and saliva testing for ferritin, vitamin D, essential amino acids, blood pH, testosterone:cortisol ratios, magnesium and calcium breakdown, as well as the outcome of the metabolic typing questionnaire - all tests performed by a company called "Bioletics". The reason I chose to have these tests performed by Bioletics, which is operated by physician Dr. Richard Cohen and pro triathlete/health adviser Tim Monaco, is because it actually allows people to test for all these variables from the comfort of their own home. I didn't have to get shuttled between six different doctors, labs, and clinics. I did this all in my kitchen. So who needs to listen to this episode? -The serious athlete, recreational sport enthusiastic or weekend warrior who wants to truly optimize their performance, health and recovery... -The aging individual who wants crucial information that will allow for lasting and vibrant youth... -The person who wants a scientific solution to weight gain, low energy levels, chronic fatigue or frequent illness... -Anyone who really, truly cares about what is going on inside their bodies, and how they can optimize their health... It is highly recommended that as a supplement to today's podcast, you also listen to Podcast Episode #53 if you haven't already, because during today's podcast, Dr. Richard Cohen and Tim Monaco present to me a comprehensive breakdown of each test for the six crucial internal performance factors we discussed in Podcast Episode #53, speaking in detail about what each test means, and how I personally fared. Chances are, if you exercise frequently, then you spend many, many hours trying to get fit, get thin, or get faster. Taking this concept to the next level, if you are a triathlete (as many listeners to this show actually are) then you spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on gear and countless hours training every week. But either way, you probably don't know the answers to the following questions: -Are your levels of Vitamin D optimal? -Are your iron stores adequate? -Are your mineral levels balanced? -Is your hormonal recovery system strong? -Do you know your essential amino acid status? -Do the food you eat provide your body with the fuel it really needs? -Are you a "fast oxidizer" or "slow oxidizer"? After listening to this podcast, you'll not only know exactly what to do and exactly how to get tested from the comfort of your own home through Bioletics, but you'll also see just how healthy, or unhealthy, a personal trainer, nutritionist and triathlete can actually be. If you're ready, just go to the Bioletics website or e-mail [email protected] . Finally, in this podcast, I also answer a question about eating before a marathon, and answer all the questions I've been getting about the brand new Triathlon Dominator Package. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Special Announcements: 1) Coming on October 10, 2009, as a special promotion during the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii - from the starting cannon until the last participant crosses the finish line, Ben Greenfield's brand new Triathlon Dominator Package will be available with a special web-only offer. You can read about exactly how to successfully train for Ironman without neglecting your family, career, hobbies and social life by clicking here, or by clicking on the video below: httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmUSi7b2cNY 2. New BenGreenfieldFitness active singlets, hoodies and hat available! Click here to check out the new store. 3. Click here to get the full scoop on the brand new Pacific Elite Fitness Triathlon Training Campin Austin, Texas - including registration details, itinerary, food, training, activities and much more! -------------------------------------------------------- That’s all for this week. Check back for upcoming interviews on bone density and athletes, women's hormone issues, and upcoming podcasts from Kona at Ironman Hawaii! Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback! Finally, remember all the time put into producing this podcast for you, and consider donating to our show (we’ll throw in a free T-shirt)! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this free September 23, 2009 audio podcast: everything that's wrong with current farming practices and what you can do about it, how to eat and drink before a long run, if Nutella is good for you, running on a treadmill vs. running outside, recovery from overtraining, oral magnesium supplementation, the latest news from the Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research and tons of information on preparing for an Ironman triathlon. Special Announcements: 1) In this podcast episode, Ben reviews the latest news from the Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, including: the effect of low cadence vs. high cadence interval training on cycling performance, the effects of compression garments on recovery, the effects of recovery interventions on consecutive days of intense exercise, and apnea training effects on swimming coordination. 2) Coming on October 10, 2009, as a special promotion during the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii - from the starting cannon until the last participant crosses the finish line, Ben Greenfield's brand new Triathlon Dominator Package will be available with a special web-only offer. You can read about exactly how to successfully train for Ironman without neglecting your family, career, hobbies and social life by clicking here, or by clicking on the video below: httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmUSi7b2cNY 3. New BenGreenfieldFitness active singlets, hoodies and hat available! Click here to check out the new store. 4. Click here to get the full scoop on the brand new Pacific Elite Fitness Triathlon Training Campin Austin, Texas - including registration details, itinerary, food, training, activities and much more! -------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: Today's featured topic is an interview with Winston Kao - a Biologist, Agra Researcher/Consultant and Inventor of the "Go Beyond Organic,"farming technology, which increases healthy soil microbial activity and rehabilitates soil structure so that it produces highly nutritious food, far in excess of current organic standards. During our interview, Kao discusses: -why today's farming methods are outdated and completely wrong for supplying us with healthy food... -what it's going to take to change the way America gets it's food... -which time of day to water your garden and why... -why reverse osmosis is unhealthy water restructuring technology and exactly which type of water you really should be using to drink and grow your food.. -his method to "neutralize" sea water so that 8% to 25% could be used in agriculture to enhance the health and nutrition of crops, with no leaf burn due to high salt content... -his method to break down rock dust rapidly for the purpose of soil remineralization so that we get more minerals from our fruits and vegetables... -his applications that have resulted in tomato plants growing over 12-14 feet tall, broccoli harvested over 11 times from the same plant, and an experimental orange tree that produced 1200 to 1400 oranges for 3 years consecutively! -how organic hydroponics works, and exactly how to use it... Listener Q&A: Listener Scott asks: "You provided some great responses in last week's podcast regarding pre and post workout nutrition for fat loss and sprint triathlons. I'm wondering what recommendations you have for fueling and hydration prior to runs. I've been working on increasing my run distance and am up to 8 miles with a 9 minute mile pace. I've been following your Shape 21 meal plan, so what I eat prior to running varies based upon what the plan recommends for breakfast. I usually wake up, eat breakfast, drink 16-24 oz of water, then let my stomach rest at least an hour. I'll then go on a run and typically have a berry shake or cinnamon-banana shake after my run, followed by more water. You mentioned avoiding fats and protein for breakfast prior to a race or endurance form of exercise. What suggestions do you have? Thanks, Ben." Anonymous Listener asks: "I have a question in regards to my training and energy levels. Lately I have been feeling incredibly tired and really have no motivation to go to the gym to lift or do my tri training. I will finish work and have to force myself to go do a workout instead of just going home and going to sleep. I know I'm not getting enough sleep, but are there other factors that could be adding to this? I'm falling asleep at work too. I can prevent this by getting some caffeine in my system but try to limit this if I can. I've read that over training can lead to loss of motivation, but I don't know if that's a reason. In a second half to the question, I have a few more races before my last race on October 17th, would it be a good idea to maybe take some time off after that race? I've heard that after long training cycles that athletes should take some time off or light to recover, bu

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Topics discussed in this free September 16, 2009 audio episode: everything you need to know about reducing your heart attack risk, water intake during exercise, protein:carb ratios for fat loss, detox and rashes, thyroid medications, testosterone, doping, drafting, and is too much produce a bad thing? Featured Topic This week's featured topic is an interview with Dr. William Davis, the author of "Track Your Plaque: The only heart disease prevention program that shows how the new CT heart scans can be used to detect, track, and control coronary plaque". As a practicing cardiologist, Dr. Davis became deeply dissatisfied with the conventional approach to heart disease and created the Track Your Plaque program to help others apply new technology in heart disease prevention. He is the Medical Director of Milwaukee Heart Scan and is a member of the Nutritional Magnesium Association. Dr. Davis is dedicated to promoting early detection and prevention of heart disease and invites you to get more information that will help you avoid the heart health risk factors of magnesium deficiency. During the interview, Dr. Davis and I discuss: -why a special sub-set of elite athletes are actually at a high risk for heart disease -what it means to have a "high heart scan score" -the extreme importance of something called lipoprotein A -one of single most important minerals for heart function that is now removed from the public water supply -how to track your plaque, and exactly where to go and what to do for a heart CT scan -the primary problems with conventional approaches to heart disease -why do healthy people have heart attacks? -and much more! Listener Q&A Listener Jason asks: "Morning mr greenfield, u said u liked that. Been doing some flying lately and become a fan of listening to your podcast. I was hopeing you could give me some feedback on an issue I had in my first tri I competed in a week or so ago. Basically the issue is that on my run I got severe stomach cramps and suffered from ab muscle pain for a few day after the event. A little bit of background and history is that I am in good shape, 6-1 , 190 pounds, probably about 15 % body fat. I trained for the event, which was a sprint tri for about 7 weeks and felt good going into it. Had some cereal and a slice of toast for b- fast. About 16 oz of water. Then after getting to the course had a clif bar. Just before the race I had a gu. Did the 300 m swim in 5:47. Then did 15 ml bike in 47 mins. I also had two bottles of water while doing the bike portion. Regular bike water bottles. In my transition to the run I had half of a small bottle of Gatorade. That's where the problems started. Got out of the t2 area and started getting stomach cramps which hung around for the entire run which slowed me down to about 28 mins insted of the 25 I was hoping for. I did the race in 1:24 which was 6 mins faster than I was going for but am very competitive and want to improve. Any help u could give me would be appreciated. Someone said it was because I drank to much liquid." Listener Maleah asks: "Doing the Shape21 thing made me start researching raw food diets since it is very similar. I don’t think I told you but in the second week I had a very bad cold. I took it particularly hard because I had not had a cold in about 4 years. I was afraid I was doing something wrong with the diet and exercise. But, in learning about raw food diets, this is a NORMAL occurrence due to detoxification. I don’t remember that being in your materials. If I missed it, I guess that is par for the course because I missed several other things the first time through but if you did not include it, may I recommend adding it?" Listener Drew asks: "On a somewhat related note to the pollution question, I have a question that also relates to the harmful chemicals of our modern day world. Let's suppose that an athlete is on a tight budget and honestly cannot afford to buy organic produce. Let's suppose he/she can only afford non-organic produce. Do you think it might be better in this case to forgo produce altogether and consume the necessary vitamins and minerals from other sources? In other words, does ingesting huge amounts of harmful pesticides and/or genetically modified produce outweigh the benefits the produce may provide? Thanks, Ben!" Listener Pete asks: "Hi Ben, Got a more general question in regards to the IM/ Half IM bike leg. When ever I listen to the pros talking via podcasts, they always mention, "riding with/being dropped from the group". Are they talking about riding together with a 3 bike length gap, or are they just straight out drafting. Also, noticed the the WTC have introduced anti-doping laws across the board for pro and Age group qualifiers. I'd like to know your thoughts on what percent of people are actually cheating, both pro and age grouper. Do we

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this September 6, 2009 free audio episode, I answer listener questions about exercising in polluted areas, what detoxing is and how it works, how to lose muscle mass safely, staying fit when you can't run, what to do if your legs get tired before your lungs do, what exactly processed sugar is, and much more! Listener Mindy asks: "I am just coming out of a bout of serious over-training – to the point of major pathology: I was forgetting things and actually gained fat! Devastating for someone in my position. But you taught me that this happens. I’ve made some rather dramatic changes to my life to heal myself. Exercise is my passion and my stress release. I have returned to it. I do have a coach helping me to make sure I have guidance. He knows what I did to myself. I understand I need rest and recovery – as a matter of fact, I was feeling tired and took my text book, lay down, and actually ended up sleeping for 2 hours. I feel like that is the right thing to do – sort of like “sleep when baby sleeps” advice when a woman just has a baby. Anyway, are there any special dietary measures and/or supplements that would be beneficial in my recovery?" In my response to Mindy, I reference the post "18 Ways to Make Your Body Heal Like Wolverine From X-Men" Listener Matt asks: "I've just discovered your website and podcast and absolute love it. Very relevant and, more importantly, very inspiring. I've just started getting into triathaons (olympic distance). I've always played competitive sports and have spent a lot of time bodybuilding. I weigh 220lbs and stand at 6'1 although not quite at the 3% bodyfat you mentioned you were once at. At the Malibu tri last year I was passed and subsequently beaten by a super clydesdale (225+lbs) who looked like a bodybuilder and his final time was 20 minutes better then mine. I've starting to find as I keep the balance of weights and specific tri training my knees are starting to suffer on the runs. Can I have the best of both worlds or do I have to put the weights aside and lose some mass to be able to continue to enjoy triathlons?" In my response, I talk to Matt about how to lose muscle effectively and safely. Listener Tammy asks: "Ben, I have a suggestion for your podcast. I am very interesting in the benefits of juicing fruits and vegies vs. just eating them. I know that by juicing you lose the fiber because you don't get the pulp, but is there anything else? Is juicing better for you or not?" Listener Chuck asks: "Hey Mr. Greenfield, I hope all is going well-- it seems like everytime I read something on endurance training, there is an article by you! I was hoping to get you advice on my training for the next few weeks. This Sunday, the 6th, I am doing the Virginia Beach Rock n' Roll half marathon. The following sunday I am racing an International distance triathlon is Williamsburg. The week after that I have a sprint triathlon at the beach followed by another international race the week after. Then another international following that. Finally, 2 weeks from then I have the Men's Health Urbanathlon in Chicago which is a 10-mile adventure race. So the Schedule looks like this: Sept 6: half marathon; Sept 13: International tri Sept 20: Sprint Tri; Sept 27: International Tri; Oct 3: International Tri; Oct 18: 10-mile adventure run. How do I train in order than I can still compete at my best but recover from each race and not burn out? I'd love your advice, thanks a lot for the all the help you've given me. I look forward to hearing from you." Listener Kev asks: "Ben, just a quick update. Pulled the calf muscle apart somehow, prob over training and doing this all year. So went and saw PT yesterday and they told me to NO RUNNING for 3 weeks so I'm done for now. Here's pic so you can see what it looks like and exactly what I'm talking about. So do you have any recommendations to keeping running fitness up when I can't run? Should I just do water running instead? If so, how long? 15-20 mins?" In my response to Kevin, I reference a blog post that I wrote about aqua jogging and water running. Listener Mark asks: "I'm going to take your advice on the processed sugar elimination - but where do you think it could be coming from if this is the issue? Like yogurt or cereal? And what exactly do you mean by processed sugar? Is that different than say brown sugar that I would add to oatmeal? I don't really eat trail mix so I can count that out--obviously you can tell I'm pretty fat-phobic, but I'm working on it. Would it be a good idea to try and healthily raise my body fat some? (Honestly, the low body fat has already caused me to have low testosterone, like you said)." Listener Brad asks: "When I train its mostly high intensity type of work. I think because of that, I often feel like my legs are more tired than my lungs/cardio system. So while I feel l

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this September 1, 2009 free audio episode, I cover the following topics: hypnosis for weight loss, how to build muscle with a Gymstick, a question on vitamin and mineral deficiency, how to ride your bicycle uphill, and how lean can a 55 year old man get? Featured Topic: Today's featured topic is an interview with Dr. Roberta Temes, author of multiple books, including (pictured above): "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Hypnosis". Dr. Roberta is a psychotherapist with a Ph.D. degree is in counseling psychology, and her specialty is hypnosis for weight loss. In addition to the book pictured above, Dr. Roberta also has a CD entitled "Enjoying Weight Loss", available by Enjoying Weight LossSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this podcast: An interview with Dr. Kalli Phillips, a licensed Naturopathic physician, on her views on the Paleo Diet. -How it works for the general population and how it works for athletes… -The mechanism by which high blood glucose, cholesterol/triglycerides and other inflammatory markers could be controlled… -The modifications that Dr. Phillips recommends for athletes to make to the diet… -Whether a person can really eat like a caveman in a modern, commercial grocery store… -Practical tips for implementing the diet… -Good substitutes for the grains and starches that are limited in the Paleo Diet… -How the diet should be changed when it comes to fueling with gels, bars and powders… See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode This August 20, 2009 free audio episode features the latest research on: whether heart rate monitors are actually accurate when predicting calorie burn, listener Q&A's about yeast infections in the gut, naturally fighting your age-related decrease in metabolism, whey protein allergies, a high heart rate during exercise, salt cravings, gymsticks and low back pain, and finally a featured topic with a double-interview about swimming nutrition and swimming form. Featured Topic: The featured topic begins with an interview of John Kenny, a pro triathlete, one of the world's fastest open water swimmers and a recognized expert when it comes to marathon swimming, open water tactics and, in this case, eating while you swim! John talks about: -Tactics and strategies in open water swimming... -How a distance open water swimmer actually eats while racing... -When to feed in a swim pack if you don't want to "get dropped"... -What John uses to get over 350 calories of carbohydrate in a single 12 ounce serving... -How John recommends Ironman triathletes eat if they need to fuel during the swim... -And many other tips, tricks and open water swim secrets! After interviewing John, we move on to a visit with Paul, from Swim Smooth. Paul is a swim and triathlon coach based in Perth, Western Australia, and for the past several years has been developing a unique and incredibly helpful visualization tool to allow swimmers to see what aspects of the freestyle stroke they need to work on, and for coaches to be able to communicate this easily and effectively with their swimmers. Paul introduces us to Mr. Smooth, and Paul, John and I talk about exactly what Mr. Smooth is and how he can make you a better swimmer and swim coach. Swimmers can download the free interactive application by visiting http://www.swimsmooth.com/console.php , and a premium version for enthusiasts and coaches with even more features is available at http://www.swimsmooth.com/proconsole.html . Listener Q&A: Christine Asks: "I believe (in Podcast Episode #53) that Dr. Cohen mentioned something about him finding that most of his patients have too much yeast, even without symptoms. I don't have any outright symptoms, but it sounds like there's a good chance I could have too much. Should I be doing anything, taking anything to combat a possible overabundance of yeast?" In my response to Christine, I mention Oil of Oregano, and a fantastic book (and a must-read, in my opinion) by Dr. Carolyn Dean: "The Magnesium Miracle". Carol Asks: "I'm a 69 yr. old female and having all kinds of trouble with weight since I stopped smoking 6 yrs. ago. I eat a sensible diet and walk 2 miles a day, 4 days a week. My metabolism is very poor according to my doc who ran blood tests. But when I asked him if I could increase my metabolism, he said no and that the situation was due to the aging process. Somehow, I find that answer unacceptable. So, I'm asking you the same question as a trainer who specializes in such matters. No, I cannot afford a trainer, but would really appreciate your opinion and a few tips. I feel hopeless." In addition to implementing my suggestions in the podcast, go to http://www.100waystoboostyourmetabolism.com! George Asks: "Ben, Love the podcast. You break health and fitness down to an understandable topic. I've been a listener for about six weeks and have started taking APC time release protein and whey protein, also training much harder. Lately I've had persistent itchy skin, especially around my armpits and scrotum. Yes, I wash well. I know you're not a doc. But could this be diet or exercise related?" In my response to George, I mention my allergy-free meal plan and exercise book, Shape21, which can be found by clicking here. Kathryn Asks: "I am a fairly recent newsletter/podcast subscriber and have become a fan. I am a triathlete and have a question on salt craving. I train daily for the olympic distance averaging 10-12 hours per week. Have been training and racing for over 10 years. I eat a clean diet, especially since giving up gluten 8 months ago and in general feel great. I do crave salt however and my question is, what am I missing? I am a long time Hammer nutrition user, and use their endurolytes while training, and for recovery and on a sweaty day. I could walk by a cookie without a problem but..salt is a different story. Long question...have any tips? Should I give into it?" Eric Asks: "Over the spring and summer, I have been diligently following a training schedule that I developed with the help of Derek Garcia and Dee Frasier of the OhNoH20 and FCA endurance groups. The schedule is based on the classic 3 week build, one week recovery, second phase of build that is a little more than the last first week of three ( a “a, b, c, recover, a.3, b.3 c.3, recover, a.7 b.7. c.7, recover etc.). This weekend I was comin

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode ----------------------------------------------------------------- Thomas Edison said, “The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest her or his patients in the care of the human frame, in a proper diet, and in the cause and prevention of disease.” In this free audio episode, released August 5, 2009, I interview today's "Doctor of the Future" and author of The Magnesium Miracle - Dr. Carolyn Dean (I also answer follow-up questions from Podcast Episode #53 about who to contact if you want to get tested for the six performance factors) Dr. Dean is not only a medical doctor, but also a naturopath, herbalist and acupuncturist. She’s authored 16 books including The Yeast Connection and Women’s Health, IBS for Dummies and The Magnesium Miracle. Radio, TV and magazines interview her regularly — including ABC, NBC and CBS. She's the Medical Director for the Nutritional Magnesium Association. During our interview, Dr. Dean and I discuss her book and touch on some very interesting topics, including: -Why people who eat healthy, exercise frequently, and take care of their bodies still need to worry about magnesium deficiency. -Why a magnesium deficiency could give an athlete a heart attack (go to http://www.nutritionalmagnesium.org to watch the 2 minute video that shows why the calcium/magnesium balance is so important) -Ben Greenfield and Carolyn Dean's thoughts on exactly what an athlete could do during competition to maintain magnesium levels. Dr. Dean mentions"H2O Minerals angstrom supplement"andNatural Calm's "magnesium citrate powder" and Ben mentions "Ancient Minerals topical magnesium oil". -Different methods of testing magnesium levels (Dr. Dean mentions "exatest.com"). Also listen in to Podcast Episode #53 with Dr. Richard Cohen for other tests that you should consider. -Exactly what needs to be on your grocery shopping list of foods that offer a high source of magnesium. -The 26 different health hazards you risk because of a magnesium deficiency. -And much, much more... -------------------------------------------------------- That’s all for this week. Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback! Finally, remember all the time put into producing this podcast for you, and consider donating to our show (we’ll throw in a free T-shirt)! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this July 23, 2009 free audio episode, I cover the following topics: an amazing expose on the dangers of genetically modified foods, double-bonded protein, running with low back pain, an update on the Shape21 Fat Loss Challenge and ProstElan for cyclists. -------------------------------------------------------- Featured Topic: Listen to this episode for an explosive exposé by Jeffrey M. Smith, who documents significant health dangers of genetically modified (GM) foods and the intense industry influence and political corruption that allow them on the market. His book, Seeds of Deception: Exposing Industry and Government Lies About the Safety of the Genetically Engineered Foods You're Eating has been hailed as the best book on the topic, and many believe that the revelations in this book can topple an industry. In the talk, he documents how the world’s most powerful Ag biotech companies bluff and mislead critics, and put the health of society at risk. Smith describes how biotech companies rigged research, hid health dangers and pressured government regulators to approve food that even FDA scientists said was unsafe! -------------------------------------------------------- Listener Q&A: Listener Paul asks: "I have a question about Mt. Capra's new double bonded protein. I'm looking to lean up and put on some muscle. A lot of the other protein powders I checked into use some kind of acid treatment and higher heat which I've been told makes the protein dead. How is double bonded protein processed and how much heat is used?" Listener Janet asks: "Is it ok to run with some lower back pain? What things should I be considering before going ahead? Any help would be appreciated. I am very grateful for your help." In my response to Janet, I reference the website http://www.runwithnopain.com. Do you have a question? Remember, you can now ask your questions via *audio* to me via the free Skype software by simply “Skyping” me at username “pacificfit“. You can also call toll free to 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail for Ben Greenfield. -------------------------------------------------------- "You're going to hear me mention this in my show for the next couple months: We're taking a survey of our listeners, and we'd like you to participate. It will help us learn more about you - no matter how long you've been a listener or how frequently you listen to this show. So please take a few minutes and click below. You can complete the survey anonymously. Thanks!" -------------------------------------------------------- Also mentioned in this podcast…Special Announcements: 1. Vote for Ben Greenfield as the best cycling tip on twitter! http://www.mindsettriathlon.com/mst_tweetcontest.php 2. The Shape21 Lean Body Challenge ended today, and the results are rolling in! Check out the photos below, then surf on over to http://www.shape21.com to get your brand new copy of Ben Greenfield's Shape21 Book/DVD package (the same book the woman below used to lose 25 pounds in 63 days and still feel fantastic) mailed to your front doorstep, along with the opportunity to win 1 full year of online personal training and nutrition guidance from Ben! 3. For those of you in the Spokane, WA area, on Thursday evening, July 30 from 6pm-8pm, Fresh Abundance is launching a Lecture series called "Take Charge of Your Health". The first lecture focuses on The Biology of Dairy, Soy Milk & Dairy Alternatives and will cover the following topics: - History of dairy - Pasteurized milk - Raw milk - Goat milk - Powdered milk - Pasteurization - Dairy cows - Hormones & antibiotics - Dairy feed then and now - Kefir Grains - Soy milk, rice milk, nut milk - Calcium - Vitamin D This lecture is about the facts. This is a non-judgmental lecture with the goal of giving you real answers so you can make real decisions about your health. This lecture is open to the public for $25 per person or at a reduced rate of $20 for current Fresh Abundance members who pre-register. Call Fresh Abundance at (509) 533-272 to register. 4. Gotten excited by the Tour De France and cycling season? If you are a male cyclist, you need to watch the video below about ProstElan. That’s all for this week. Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback! Finally, remember all the time put into producing this podcast for you, and consider donating to our show (we’ll throw in a free T-shirt)! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode The story behind the highly unconventional Podcast Episode #51 (NOT podcast episode #52 as I accidentally say in the introduction!): This week I made a big mistake. I accidentally erased the recorded audio interview on “natural topical anti-inflammatories”. So I put the future of Podcast Episode #51 into the hands of the Ben Greenfield Fitness newsletter subscribers. Here’s what I asked: write down the one burning question you have about fat loss, nutrition or human performance (try to make it relevant and unique). Then just e-mail it to [email protected]. The FIRST question I received was promised a brand new midnight black and lime green BenGreenfieldFitness t-shirt. And here was the official FIRST question: ———————————————————————– “Hey Ben, I’ve been charting my meals online to monitor calorie intake now that I’m not training for long-distance events, and the most frustrating thing I find is estimating your base metabolism and how many calories you truly should be eating in a day. There is a HUGE amount of variance from site to site, depending on your normal daily activity level and amount of exercise. Is it worth being tested or consulting a “real” nutritionist/dietitian, or is there a reliable do it yourself source for this kind of information? And, relatedly, many of these sites also estimate amount of calories you burn in exercise, which also seems entirely arbitrary and potentially inaccurate, but I know my Polar is “off” too, so I only use it for estimating purposes. This gets frustrating when you’re trying to balance diet and exercise more closely. The bottom line: is good enough really “good enough” for using these systems for weight loss? I’m curious as to your opinion. Thanks for the podcasts and newsletters. They are always a good source of information.” -Nicole ———————————————————————– Congratulations, Nicole! Your BenGreenfieldFitness t-shirt will go out just as soon as you e-mail in your mailing address (by the way, that picture above is a girl getting one of those resting metabolic tests I mention in the answer). But following Nicole’s question, I was then bombarded with a barrage of questions. So many questions, in fact, that I had to give an emergency call to my colleague John Gilbert, the metabolism mastermind over at Human Wellness Solutions to help field these questions. John and I sat down in our Spokane metabolic laboratory to record this podcast and answer your questions, which were all fantastic! We decided to start by awarding the THREE top questions with a free exercise DVD from “100 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism”.We like this first question because it really strikes at the heart of what alot of people struggle with. Go ahead and send us your mailing address, Buddy! ———————————————————————– “How do you stay motivated when you know what to eat, how to lift and the amount of cardio that is necessary to lose weight but you can’t seem to “stick with it”. I have approximately 20 lbs to lose and when I lose 10 lbs I seem to notice that I feel better, my clothes fit better and I receive compliments from friends and family. Then I fall off the dedication wagon and quickly put the 10 lbs back on. A month or two of dedication lost in a matter of weeks. I’m trying to understand the psychology side to my self sabotage, any suggestions? I know you’re not a psychologist but any suggestions you have would be helpful.” Sincerely, Buddy – Going mental in Southern California! ———————————————————————– Believe it or not, many people, especially triathletes, really struggle with this next question, which also won a DVD. Mailing address please, Steve! “About 9 months ago when I got back into a training routine I was able to hit my max HR of ~170 with what seemed to be relatively low exertion. As my fitness improves I find it harder and harder to get my HR up. I used to do long runs @ 150 without a problem, now 143 – 145 is a huge effort. My endurance is greatly improved, and my pace is faster, but a max effort is now required just to reach LT. My LT tests yield lower numbers each time. Doing 100% effort 1 minute sprints or 4 min Tabata sessions won’t even allow me to reach max HR. I do not believe that I am over-trained and I don’t really feel terribly fatigued. What gives?! Is it just me or does this happen to anyone else?” Thanks – Steve ———————————————————————– OK, this next guy gets the last DVD just for going all out and asking a three part question. Now that’s dedication. Send us your mailing address, Thierry… “Q1: what is your take on krill oil as a substitute for fish oil supplements? Read that it is more potent and does not give you the fishy burps or side effects. Q:2 there are a lot of claims being made regarding resveratol in wine and as a supplement. Is it something we should try to fit into my diet? Q:3. What do you think about takin

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Can you believe that this is the fiftieth episode? And it's jam-packed with tips on how to get smarter! In this July 9 free audio episode,you'll learn... -How to trick your brain into instantly getting smarter... -The top 10 questions that I receive about fat loss, nutrition and human performance... -Information about something called "The HCG Diet" and how it pertains to fat loss... "-Shocking" the body off a weight loss plateau... -A magnesium deficiency and heart attacks update... -The answers to listener Q&A's on caffeine, ideal blood sugar levels before and during exercise, weightlifting for triathletes, liquid vegetables... -And much more! Featured Topic: The featured topic is an interview with Dr. Arlene Taylor, recognized as one of the world's leading "brain experts". During this interview, Dr. Taylor reveals the secrets of age-proofing your brain, organizing for your brain type, and actually making yourself smarter! You'll learn why not exercising by highways, choosing a different path to drive to work, and even hanging your home's pictures upside down can all make you smarter! During our interview, she includes intriguing information on: -The technique of "brain breathing"... -Specific exercises that will stretch your brain... -Exactly what to avoid if you don't want to "damage" your mental capacities... -The unique relationship between something called "L-Theanine" and nerve growth factor... -Why a healthy brain is different than a healthy body... -How to keep your brain from degrading as you age... -Eating to support the brain... -And even the single secret "brain-boosting" supplement that the world's leading brain expert takes on a daily basis (click here to get your hands on some!) If you enjoy this interview with Dr. Taylor, you'll also want to check out her books, which are full of even more practical information. The one I mention during the interview is called "Brain Waves". You can click here for a list of all Arlene Taylor's books that are currently available on Amazon, including "Age-Proofing Your Brain" and "Organizing for Your Brain Type". Learn proven methods to keep your brain from aging and make you smarter! Research Review: The brand new Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research has hit the shelves, and in this podcast, Ben talks about the practical information gleaned from studies that investigate: -Breathing frequency and inspiratory muscle fatigue during freestyle swimming... -Plyometric exercise and muscle fatigue... -What happens to power:weight ratio when cyclists combine weight loss with hard training... -Effect of sugar-free Red Bull on run time to exhaustion... -The effect of carbohydrate ingestion during 60-90 minutes of exercise... Listener Q&A: -Listener Andrew asks: "I was hoping you could clear up some confusion I have about caffeine. Currently, I avoid caffeine at all costs. I consume no caffeine whatsoever. My question is if caffeine can be a part of a good nutrition plan. Would it be okay (or perhaps even beneficial) to have a cup of coffee each day? Or perhaps to begin drinking green tea? What is your opinion on the FRS energy products and the caffeine they contain? I've heard glowing reviews of that product line, even from Lance Armstrong himself." Click here to listen to the podcast where Ben Greenfield talks about Quercetin in FRS Energy Drinks OR... Click here for the podcast with Ben's general overview of FRS Energy Drinks. -Listener Amie asks: "I'd like to see if you could clarify some information I have been hearing. Set me straight in other words. So, I have heard that if your blood sugar level is between 70-90 before you exercise you will burn more fat. That is apparently an optimal level for burning the most fat. Can you confirm whether what I am hearing is true or false? Also, I am told you are supposed to check your blood sugar level 20 minutes prior to exercise." -Listener Sue calls in with a question about being busy working 14 hour days, not having enough time to eat vegetables, and "putting her salads in the blender"! Click here for one of the liquid vegetable supplements "Enerprime" that I recommend to Sue. -Listener Wayne asks: "I am shooting to go 9:40 or lower at Arizona, and am going to do some intense training for it. My question is should I hit the gym again during the summer for strength training, etc? I tend the think the answer is "yes". I am currently sitting right around race weight (176, down from 190 12 weeks ago, something i am going to try to do a better job of in the "offseason", but lifting weights tends to make me put the weight back on). I have Lake Stevens and a couple sprints coming up, too." In my response to Wayne, I reference... “Ben Greenfield’s Top 12 Resistance Training Routines for Triathletes” - Easy to understand 20 page manual with complete instructions and guides to cutti

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode This June 24, 2009 free audio episodeincludes an expert interview on low back pain and sacro-iliac joint issues, a bonus interview on a breakthrough supplement for bone healing and stress fractures called "lactoferrin", as well as listener Q&A's on "Tapering for Triathlon" and "Crunchy Craving Snack Substitutes". This Week's Featured Topic: Dr. Brian Mather is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician. He is the team chiropractor for the Spokane Chiefs Hockey Club and has over 10 years of clinical experience treating high-school, college and professional athletes. He served as chiropractor for the 2007 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, and is now a contributing writer to Triathlete magazine and an emerging expert in low back pain, especially among the endurance athlete population. During our 15 minute interview, Dr. Mather and I discuss the latest findings on the #1 cause of low back pain among people who are physically active, and the exact steps that can be taken to eliminate the pain related to sacroiliac joint issues (SI joint syndrome). For more information on Dr. Mather, just visit Spokane Sports Chiropractic. In the second interview, I speak with a gentleman named Jim Dragon about a brand new nutritional supplement that is showing a great deal of promise for bone health and stress fractures. It is called "lactoferrin", and is found in an impressive dietary supplement called Osteodenx, which you can find by clicking here.The ingredients include a cocktail of many of the effective bone-building supplements we've discussed on this show, such as Vitamin D (as cholecalciferol), Folic acid, Zinc (from zinc oxide) , ELF (RNAse enriched-lactoferrin), hyaluronic acid, bromelain, N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, Chondroitin sulfate 100 mg and Turmeric root extract. During the interview, you'll hear some impressive statistics and anecodotes about the efficacy of this interesting new capsule. Also, remember the interview on Ayurvedic Medicine? In this podcast, I also mention how I've been feeling since I started using the "Essence of Life" Fulvic and Humic acids from AmbayaGold.com. Also in this podcast: Listener Chuck asks: I had a couple questions I was hoping you could answer for me for my race next weekend. On Sunday I will be racing Montclair Olympic triathlon in Virginia. The race is on Sunday and I was curious about your recommendations for tapering the week before? Also, what is the best way to train the week after the race - take a day off, get right back into it? Listener Jane asks: Now that we're in the middle of the summer, I'm finding myself absolutely craving more calories in between meals, especially from "crunchy" foods, like cracker mixes and banana chips. Are these type of foods healthy for snacking? I have also received a couple questions about online personal training. So I've answered them in a video. If you watch this video, and you want to find out how I can be your personal fitness or nutrition consultant, just go to http://www.pacificfit.net/bengreenfield.html Do you have a question? Remember, you can now ask your questions via *audio* to me via the free Skype software by simply "Skyping" me at username "pacificfit". You can also call toll free to 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail for Ben Greenfield. Special Announcements in This Podcast Episode: -Just released: "Holistic Fueling For Ironman Triathletes" - the ultimate solution to fueling your body with the thousands of calories necessary for Ironman triathlon and ultra-endurance sports - without doing lasting damage to your vital organs, brain cells, skin and immune system! It's only available from "MindSet Triathlon", and for the next few days, they've featuring the new release with a huge $10 discount! To get the book now, just click here. -New giveaway: Free copy of the "100 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism" Exercise DVD to the person who posts the best comment on Leftover Lettuce post (click here to go to that post). Your comment must be about creative ways that you can use leftover lettuce. In this DVD, you have full access to the “Metabolism Booster” video workout series - five workouts designed to be quick and effective calorie-burners. These workouts include: Metabolism Booster 1: “Climb the Mountain” Metabolism Booster 2: “Twist & Tone” Metabolism Booster 3: “4 Minute Frenzy” Metabolism Booster 4: “Jump Into Action” Metabolism Booster 5: “No-Sweat” -You’re not going to want to miss the action over at the Shape21 Lean Body Challenge website. There are photos, videos, and much, much more. How much fat can the human body lose in 63 days?Justclick here to see photos and videosand read the latest testimonials from participants. -The ultimate audio collection: Ben Greenfield Fitness, Volumes 1 & 2 have been released as a 10 CD multi-disc set:Now you can listen to any of the health, fitness or nutriti

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode This June 18, 2009 free audio episodeincludes a special swim interview for you triathletes, as well as listener Q&A's on "Chia Seeds" (are they actually superior to flax seed?), Peanut Butter (is it really as bad as some nutritionists say?), Insulin Spikes from post-workout nutrition, Fasting for Weight Loss, and one very interesting natural remedy to fix a knee injury... This Week's Featured Topic: By now, you have probably realized that there is a pretty stark contrast between swimming 25 yards, pushing off a wall, and swimming back...and fighting your way through 1.5K or more in choppy lake water. This is especially true if you like to follow the big black or blue line on the bottom of the pool. So who's to blame? You? Or your pool-side coach/master's swim instructor/triathlon mentor for not teaching you a stroke that actually works in the open water? Maybe a little bit of both. So today's podcast episode contains the answers to "17 Open-Water Swim Questions That You Should Probably Ask Your Swim Coach.", and it features John Kenny, a triathlon coach from Pacific Elite Fitness. John was a 5-time US National champion in open water swim distances ranging from 10K up to 25K. He was a 7-time National team member and has competed at a wide variety of races including Nationals, Olympic trials, Pan Ams, Pan Pacs, World Cups, and World Championships. He has been competing at local open water races since 1990, attended his first Open Water Nationals in 1997, and most recently represented the USA in the 25K at World Championships in 2008. From short races to marathons, flat lake swims to rough ocean or turbulent river swims, John Kenny is the most experienced open water swimmer in the United States, if not the world. Other coaches in the triathlon realm claiming to be "open water experts" do not come close. In addition to a host of immediately practical open water swim tips and tricks, my discussion with John includes: 1. Should my stroke count and arm turnover increase in the open water? 2. If so, by how many strokes per minute? 3. And if so, should I be using a swimming metronome?(click here for more information on the "swim metronome/pedometer" that John mentions) 4. Should my breathing mechanics be different in the open water? 5. Should I do the 2 Stroke R, Breathe, 1 Stroke R, Sight, Switch Sides pattern that I see almost all the pros doing in triathlon swim video footage? 6. If so, how do I do that? 7. Should I sight first, then breathe, or breathe first, then sight, and does it matter? 8. How often should I sight? 9. Should I change my swim mechanics if I'm swimming downriver? 10. What about in a choppy lake vs. a choppy ocean with breakers? 11. In an ocean start, at what point should I stop running and start swimming? 12. Can I learn how to "porpoise" or "dolphin dive", and will it make me faster? 13. How far away from the feet of the person in front of me can I be before I lose the draft? 14. How hard should I work in the first 200 meters to catch a draft? 15. What is the #1 Workout to get more comfortable with open water swimming? 16. What is the #1 Workout to get faster in the open water? 17. Is there a way to eat and drink while swimming in the open water? For more information on hiring open water swim expert and pro triathlete John Kenny as your coach (and I can personally testify that just a few of the tips in this interview brought me through one of my best open water swims at the recent Boise 70.3 Half Ironman Triathlon), just click here. Also in this podcast: Listener Scott asks: "Brad Pilon has a popular e-book out called Eat Stop Eat in which he presents several studies showing the benefits of short term intermittent fasting, especially for fat loss. Have you read very much on this topic, and do you have any opinions about it? My second question involves post workout nutrition after strength training and fat loss. I have read a few blogs from fitness/nutrition expert that discourage the use of it when attempting to lose fat due to the spike in insulin the meal causes. They state this may lead to fat storage since any leftover calories not utilized to replenish muscle glycogen would be stored as fat. I know you are a fan of low to moderate GI foods. I've been incorporating a whey supplement and piece of fruit after my strength training sessions, both of which are going to cause some form of insulin spike I'm sure, but are low GI foods. I can't see how supplying my body with a serving of protein and carbohydrates after a lifting session, especially when they are low in calories, are going to be detrimental or encourage fat storage if my muscle glycogen levels are low or even depleted. I've also realize there are different approaches to strength training when trying to lose fat vs gaining lean mass. I feel there is significant research to support the idea y

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this June 11, 2009 free audio episode: -The past several weeks, you've heard me talk quite a bit about the fact that minerals are needed for almost every bodily function (click here for a related interview on Transdermal Magnesium Therapy with Dr. Mark Sircus). Minerals are essential to enzymes, hormones, skeletal bones, teeth, fluids, proteins, DNA, and are critical for the utilization of vitamins. And they're highly deficient in most Americans, because our soils are stripped of what they actually need. As a result, our food does not contain adequate minerals. -What does this have to do with Ayurvedic Medicine? In this podcast, I interview Ayurvedic Medicinist "Ambaya" from AmbayaGold.com. During out talk, Ambaya explains: -The core concepts behind Ayurvedic Medicine, including the identity of two crucial compounds "Fulvic Acid" and "Humic Acid" that can be harvested from rich soil deep within the earth, and utilized for mineral replacement... -The identity of a special volcanic ore that, when isolated and consumed, may carry heavy metals, chemicals and pathogenic bacteria safely out of the cells and harmlessly out of the body... -An introduction to "monatomic elements", and why these small, rarely discussed minerals are crucial to human health, immune system and performance... -The exact identity of the most common ionic minerals that you probably aren't getting, and how to actually ensure that you are optimizing your health through their consumption... -Ambaya's exact 5 steps to completely optimizing your health, detoxifying your body, achieving a state of super hydration and maintaining this type of "super-human" emotional, mental and physical status for the rest of your life... -And much, much more! During the interview, there are methods revealed for restoring hydration, removing obstacles that impede our health such as toxins and heavy metals, and restoring the life giving minerals, elements, vitamins and amino acids that are seriously lacking in all our diets – even when we’re eating the best of foods. For more information on Ambaya, just click here to visit her website and read her stories and recommendations. Also in this podcast: -Listener Q&A: Listener Sherry asks: "I've heard that something called "Electromagnetic Fields" (EMF) can be damaging to your health. Is that true, and if so, how can I avoid them?" Click here to learn more about the Gunnar Optik glare-shielding glasses that I mention in my response, which you can wear to protect your eyes if you are working on a computer for long periods of time. Listener Buddy asks: "I’ve noticed that there’s been some really great info. specifically about prostate and prostate health for men and I love to share this with my husband as well as my father. However, I would love to hear additional info. that is women specific. You mentioned that your wife introduced you to the sport of triathlon so I’d love to hear from her or maybe you could use your female clients for some research. A couple of requested items that would be helpful to have an expert like you chime in on, training during our menstrual cycle, peri-menopause and menopause, exercise during pregnancy, women specific supplements etc." Click here for the pre-menopausal women's specific multi-vitamin EnerEssence I which I mention in my response. Click here for the post-menopausal female hormonal support product EnerEssence II which I also mention. Also featured in the listener Q&A: metabolic efficiency of speed-walking vs. jogging, and swimming the breaststroke rather than the freestyle in triathlon! Do you have a question? Remember, you can now ask your questions via *audio* to me via the free Skype software by simply "Skyping" me at username "pacificfit". You can also call toll free to 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail for Ben Greenfield. -Also in this podcast: -You're not going to want to miss the action over at the Shape21 Lean Body Challenge website. There are photos, videos, and much, much more. How much fat can the human body lose in 63 days? Here's a story from one participant (click here to see photos and videos): ""Hi, I am a 56 year old male who is overweight by about 35 pounds. I have been reasonably active in the past but not so much in the past 8 months. I was a vegatarian until about a month ago, but had a craving for meat. I don't take medication and would probably look good in a before and after photo comparison. And I want to lose this weight!" 10 days in... "First week, lost 9 pounds. I weigh in every Friday so I don’t know how I've done this week. I'm totally wasted, but feeling good. I think the "favorite exercise" for me is reverse squats, which are the hardest for me to do and seem to really burn, so I know they're working. I like the recovery shake, with kefir and protein powder. I'm feeling good that I am dedicating this t

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this episode In this June 2, 2009 free audio episode: -Large athletic events often do not consider sustainability or resource depletion when creating or producing the event. Cost is normally a primary objective, with convenience and ease of implementation a close second. In this interview with Portland Triathlon race director Jeff Henderson, you'll be introduced to the concept of "Green" events, and how to actually have a triathlon, marathon or athletic event without destroying the planet. Click here to visit the Portland Triathlon website. Here are some snippets: ...In all cases local providers are given preference over regional or national sources. The necessary triathlon infrastructure (swim buoys, bike racks, etc) has been created from recycled or used materials whenever possible. Participants are asked to carpool, take public transportation, or ride their bikes to the race, with incentives provided for doing so... ...The Freshwater Trust Portland Triathlon was the first triathlon in the country to staff its medical tent with naturopathic doctors. The National College of Naturopathic Medicine provided care while highlighting this city's unique educational institution... ...Local and sustainable extend to food, as well. Organic produce is used for aid stations and pre-race, and locally sourced food is served at the post-race meal. Recycling and composting are integral.... Also in this podcast: -Magnesium Oil update: I just started my weekly soak in a 1:1 mixture of aluminum free baking soda from the grocery store and the 100% absorbable magnesium flakes from Ancient Minerals. My body feels amazing, and my joint soreness and "stale" legs have almost completely disappeared. I am augmenting this with a spray of magnesium oil on both arms prior to my workout, which I can immediately feel surging through my body. Click here to visit the website where I got this stuff, and also listen into Podcast #45 for the interview with Dr. Mark Sircus, which talks about how magnesium works and why magnesium works. I guarantee you'll become an instant expert on magnesium. If you find this information intriguing, and you as a coach, athlete or weekend warrior want to learn even more about the topic, Dr. Mark Sircus's impressive book "Transdermal Magnesium Therapy"is available by clicking here. -Listener Q&A: Listener Nick calls in with a question on fast-twitch to slow-twitch muscle fiber conversion. Listener Chris asks: "With as much as Dr. Sircus talked about magnesium and magnesium deficiencies, I was surprised he didn't mention Vitamin D. Are you familiar with any of the recent research on Vitamin D and sports performance?" Click here for a link to the study mentioned in my response to Chris. Do you have a question? Remember, you can now ask your questions via *audio* to me via the free Skype software by simply "Skyping" me at username "pacificfit". You can also call toll free to 1-877-209-9439 and leave a voicemail for Ben Greenfield. -18 Ways to Help Your Body Bounce Back From An Injury Like Wolverine From X-Men: For about 4 or 5 bucks a day, you can actually vastly decrease the time that it takes for your body to heal. In this post, I tell you exactly which nutritional supplements and foods that you need to take if you are injured or experiencing inflammation. Click here to go there now - the post will take you 5 minutes to review and could add YEARS to your athletic longetivity. -You're not going to want to miss the action over at the Shape21 Lean Body Challenge website. Here is what some of the participants have to say, just 10 days into the 63 Day Fat Loss Contest using my nutrition/training manual (officially will be released on July 23, 2009): "Ben...I will not bother you much by email but I thought I would let you know that I am following the plan almost to the letter (except lunges...my knees can't take it) and getting LOTS of attention from the people around me. I jumped the gun and started on the Monday BEFORE we were supposed to start (I swear I just missed the start date). I walk an hour and a half per day because I am preparing for a 5K run. The people around me are AMAZED at the changes. It is the topic of conversation everywhere I go. I am not in this to win...I am doing it to change my life. So far we are doing just that..." Maleah "Hey Ben! So far so good on shape21 lean body challenge....and 'frankly, im shocked! I loveeeeee it thus far and im suprised at just how much its kickin my butt, In a good way of course! I'M loving the nutrition, its gotten me to eat more adventurously. The foam roller has become my best friend; those sprint intervals are killer...thanks!" Em "I bought all the food, started working out a week ago (Tuesday) , a little hard to fit in schedule but trying and just love the menu! I have lost 8 lbs in 7 days and getting used to the workout.(had Jabba The Hut a

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode Every once in awhile, I discover shocking information that pharmaceutical companies really don't want you to know. This is information about therapies so simple, so elegant and so natural that they just can't be patented and sold for millions of dollars. For example, Podcast Episode #31 revealed Oil of Oregano to be one of the most potent and healthy anti-viral and anti-septic agents you could add to your kitchen cupboard, for under thirty bucks. In this free May 27 audio episode,I introduce another entirely natural and inexpensive compound that literally lies directly beneath your feet, in the soil. I've had my eye on this particular compound for several months, because it packs a powerful punch for human physical performance, testosterone release, muscle and strength gains, elimination of fatigue, cardiovascular health and reduction of heart attack risk, bone density, and a solution for muscular cramps and spasms. I truly believe that a whole new world of sports medicine is going to explode onto the scene when athletes and coaches find out that this 100% natural and legal performance aid is available for simple and convenient topical use. The compound is Magnesium Chloride, and I was able to hunt down one of the world's experts on the therapeutic use and application of the various forms of magnesium. Dr. Mark Sircus holds the honorary title of doctor of Oriental medicine and was one of the first nationally certified acupuncturists in the United States. For many years he has been researching into the human condition and into the causes of disease. His primary focus in recent years has been the study of environmental toxicity and diseases and he has written many books on the poisons in our environment, our foods, medicines and dental practices. Dr. Sircus is the director of the International Medical Veritas Association (IMVA), which is currently advocating radical changes in orthodox medicine. Before you read about the completely untapped resource that Dr. Sircus and I discuss in this week's audio podcast, I would highly recommend that you quickly reviewthis article on magnesium and sports performance, this article on magnesium and musculoskeletal integrity, and this article on transdermal magnesium therapy. During our discussion, Dr. Sircus reveals... -The identity of three compounds that he considers to be the "Holy Trinity of Medicine", which most Western doctors rarely consider in therapy... -A raging epidemic of magnesium deficiency, and why you cannot store enough magnesium in your own body... -The shocking complete underutilization of magnesium, especially by sports teams, coaches, and athletes... -Why magnesium is one of the leading causes of heart attacks in young, healthy people who die during exercise... -How much magnesium really ends up getting transferred (or not transferred) from the soil into your fruits and vegetables... -What the general population will discover about chronic fatigue and fat loss when they begin using topical magnesium... -The best source to find topical magnesium oil (click here for an actual link to Dr. Sircus's #1 Recommended Source for Topical Magnesium Oil) If you find this information intriguing, and you as a coach, athlete or weekend warrior want to learn even more about the topic, Dr. Sircus's impressive book "Transdermal Magnesium Therapy"is available by clicking here.In the meantime, I am personally introducing this unbelievable sports performance compound to the training and racing protocols of myself and the athletes that I coach, as well as the individuals who I consult for fat loss and energy. We are using a simple spray-on application for the fore-arms, prior to exercise. I have found a reliable source to be Magnetic Clay Ancient Minerals Ultra Pure Magnesium Oil. Also in this podcast episode: -You're not going to want to miss the action over at the Shape21 Lean Body Challenge website, where all pictures and videos are now posted for Ben Greenfield's 63 Day Fat Loss Challenge, including the entertaining video of the girl who wants to lose her butt and the girl who is 100% convinced that she will be taking home over $400 of prizes...click here to go there now... -Brand new "Unparalleled Secrets of Fat Loss" clinic in Spokane, WA and Coeur D' Alene, ID. WARNING: this is not a run-of-the mill program or standardized "weight loss clinic". You will be exposed to cutting-edge tactics like toxin-free food planning, hyper-metabolic response exercise circuits, dietary thermogenic supplementation, food allergy elimination, hormonal response meal timing, grocery shopping mind-trick strategies and metabolic testing secrets. Click here for more information and to reserve your spot (only 12 people allowed in the class). -"The Skinny Guy Who Needs Muscle" - just released on May 19: Remember that last week I mentioned my friend Jeff

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode In this week's May 21, 2009 free audio episode: -A shocking review of an article based on the the book "Bottomfeeder", written by a gentleman named Taras Grescoe. You will not believe the mind-blowing travesties that occur on a fish farm, exactly before that "fresh salmon" ends up on your plate. I'm in contact with Mr. Grescoe's publicity office to try to get him on our show, but listen in to this week's podcast for a sneak peek (the photo above is a tasty salmon covered in sea lice. A single lice can kill a salmon, so the feed is spiked with pesticides to kill off the lice). -A review of research article: "Acute Effects of a Thermogenic Nutritional Supplement on Energy Expenditure and Cardiovascular Function at Rest, During Low-Intensity Exercise, and Recovery from Exercise". This article looks into whether "metabolism-boosting" supplements, fat loss pills, weight loss capsules and calorie-burning dietary aids are actually effective, and studied blood pressure, oxygen consumption, heart rate, and metabolic response to popular nutritional supplement ingredients. Mentioned in this review was the fat loss nutritional supplement "ThermoFactor". -Suddenly there's a bunch of research on L-Theanine, and forward-thinking companies are adding it to their energy drinks as a way to stave off depression, produce "happy hormones" in the brain, and develop laser focused energy. Click here to read the recent story in the LA times. One company was way ahead of the game, and I've been taking their stuff for years, with none of the artificial sweeteners, sugar, or preservatives found in commercial energy drinks. It is called Delta-E, and is a pink-colored, pomegranate flavored powder that dissolves into water, or can just be applied sub-lingually. Highly recommended. -You still have complete access to the training and nutrition "diaries" and special tactics that I am incorporating with several people who are pursuing healthy and lasting fat loss in 2009. Click here to take a look at one girl from California, a 32 year old stay-at-home mom who has already tried Slimfast, Atkins, Herbalife, Body for Life, interval training, personal training, detox, low-fat diet, horseback riding, Slim in 6, a home treadmill and elliptical, mini-trampoline, gym membership, cleanses, Weight Watchers, hoodia, green tea, calorie counting, walking, hiking, Tai-bo, Wii fit, Denise Austin, bands, exercise balls, yoga and Lean for Life. Also in this podcast episode: -"The Skinny Guy Who Needs Muscle" - just released on May 19: Remember that last week I mentioned my friend Jeff Andersen, and his special program for "skinny guys" who want to put on muscle as quickly and safely as possible? The entire package was just released on May 19. I've seen it, and it's pretty incredible. The author, Jeff Andersen, is giving away some unique free tips on the program's website, including a review of the body's 2 most anabolic hormones, a workout training technique that targets over 300% new muscle tissue, and a $.08 "Miracle Supplement" that significantly increases muscle-protein uptake. The program is called "Hardgainer X" and you can click here to get it, or just to read his free and unique tips for building muscle quickly. -Is There Really Any Good Reason to Eat Fat? - You tell us! Give your best healthy reason or answer for consuming fat and win one of the brand new BenGreenfieldFitness "My Personal Trainer Told Me To Eat More Fat" t-shirts! Click here to give us your best healthy reason to eat more fat. Listener Q&A: I answer the following questions in the May 21, 2009 free audio episode: From Listener Chris: "I recently was diagnosed with a stress reaction (essentially mild stress fracture) in the lateral knee. I was told that I can still swim, but that I should stop biking by my doctor and give it 8 weeks to heal. 8 weeks to me feels like a lifetime. I tried aqua jogging today as I have had several friends do that as their legs have healed from injury. I found it to be mildly painful on my knee as I pulled my leg forward. When I am running in the water...as my left leg pushes down and back and my right leg pulls up and forward, I found that I had pain in the outside of my right knee. Specifically, when my quads are tight, pulling my shin and foot forward in the water. I wonder whether I should be strengthening my quads and my hip flexors. Similar to the pain I feel when biking and pulling up on the crank with my right leg. This could be due to poor form in the pool, but I thought you might have some advice regarding how I can reduce this pain. My doctor has said to avoid activities that cause my knee pain (i.e. biking and running) and, therefore, I had thought that aqua jogging would be perfect, but was disappointed to feel the pain in the knee." From Listener Scott: "I read in a fitness blog that it is difficult f