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 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

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 13, 2009 free audio episode, I interview certified live cell blood analyst Cody Dahl, from Journey of Healthin Calgary, Alberta. During our discussion, he answers the following questions: 1. What is live cell blood analysis? 2. How is live cell blood analysis different from blood work done at a lab? 3. What can you see in a live cell blood analysis? 4. What kind of results and or benefits can one expect from a live cell blood analysis? 5. Who would benefit from a live cell blood analysis? 6. Why is this technology not used by mainstream medical doctors? For any listeners or readers in the Spokane, Washington area, Mr. Dahl will be at Fresh Abundance on 2015 N Division St on May 16 & 17. Swing by and get your blood analyzed! Also in this podcast episode: -A New Program For Skinny Guys Who Want To Put On Muscle: My friend Jeff Anderson now has a free MP3 and ebook for skinny guys who are "hardgainers" and want to put on more muscle. For the last 6 years, Jeff's been dedicating much of his research to studying the "ECTOMORPH". These are the really skinny guys who no matter how hard they try, just can't seem to put on any muscle. Over the past several yeras, Jeff has been performing an experiment which took 6 "hardgainers" who had a difficult time putting on muscle and put them through a brand new 3-STEP TRAINING PROGRAM specifically designed for the "ectomorph" body type. This experiment took 6 "hardgainers" who had a difficult time putting on muscle and put them through a brand new 3-STEP TRAINING PROGRAM Jeff specifically designed forthe "ectomorph" body type. Go to this website to view Jeff's "skinny guy" human lab rats! -"Dr. Fitt" from Podcast Episode #42, submitted some fantastic bonus reconmmendations on resources for learning more about hypothyroidism and yeast overgrowth, as well as more thoughts on vitamin D, stress fractures, and magnesium oil. -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 13, 2009 free audio episode: From Listener Ron: "I see the value of eating beans, since they're a low-glycemic index carbohydrate and all that, but what about the terrible gas? I'm driving my family nuts since I started eating black bean dip with vegetables, hummus with garbanzo beans and putting beans on my salad." From Listener Kelsey: "I just got the BenGreenfieldFitness CD Set and I've been listening to all the episodes in my car on the way to work. I just finished the episode with Dr. Gittleman, where she talks about the Gut Flush Plan and her Colon Cleansing Kit. I feel like this might actually be the answer to all my bloating and fatigue. But how long does a colon cleanse actually take? If I've been eating crap for 10 years, will I have to take it for the next decade?" 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. The first audioquestion I receive this week (meaning you actually have to call in via Skype or the toll-free number), will receive a FREE 3-Month Premium Subscription to TrainingPeaks, the world's top online fitness software. That's a $49 value! -The brand-new 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 nutrition audio episodes on the convenience of your home or car CD player. I've only ordered 100 of the sets, but you can get over 1500 minutes of cutting-edge audio today for the web-only special of $47 by clicking here. Only 64 CD sets remaining as of this post (May 14)! 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!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 Let's start with some exciting news! The brand-new ultimate audio collection: Ben Greenfield Fitness, Volumes 1 & 2 have been released as a 10 CD multi-disc set! Now you can listen to our audio episodes on the convenience of your home or car CD player. I've only ordered 100 of the sets, but you can get yours today by clicking here. In this May 6, 2009 free audio episode, I interview Dr. Roby Mitchell, aka "Dr. Fitt" (pictured above). Dr. Mitchell graduated with honors from Texas Tech University School of Medicine in Lubbock, Texas and was selected to be the first medical student in an exchange program with Jinan University Medical School in mainland China. Over years of studying in both China and the United States, Dr. Mitchell has become an authority on nutritional medicine and bio-identical hormone replacement therapies in his own right. He served as a physician for the US Medical Triathlon Society, and even practiced as Chuck Norris's sparring partner! During our interview, Dr. Fitt discusses: -the exact age that both men and women begin to lose hormones and suffer the results (hint: much younger than you think) -the enormously important link between iodide, thyroid, fungi, and chronic inflammation -the most common nutritional deficiencies Dr. Mitchell observes in his patients, and how he treats them -visual and body cues that could easily warn you of potential signs of hypothyroidism, including why you need to pay attention to your toe and tongue temperature, and even the bags under your eyes -the best test for identifying hormone deficiences that could be leading to chronic fatigue and low energy levels -the top hormone deficiencies that many people aren't even aware could exist in their own bodies -Dr. Mitchell's top two recommended books for the average person to learn more about bio-identical hormone replacement -and much, much more! Special Announcements in this episode: -The FDA just issued a severe warning about the metabolic-boosting fat loss supplement "Hydroxycut". (Click here for more information about the release). This simply affirms the message that I have delivered from Day 1: it doesn't matter what your fat loss results are if they're not healthy. -A survey for you triathletes out there: why do you *really* do triathlon? Click here to read my controversial article about this question, and voice your opinions. -Don't be offended by the lack of clothing, but my new Shape21 style workout video is now out on the web. Check it out today, then hurry to register for the Shape21 63 Day Lean Body Challenge(must register by midnight on May 14, 2009). Watch A Ripped Body Workout in Sports | View More Free Videos Online at Veoh.com Also On This Week's Podcast Episode: Listener Q&A: Detailed answers featured in the May 6, 2009 free audio episode: 1. From listener Charles: "Ben, I am in fact lifting as you suggested- I'm actually very serious about including it my training routine. I was wondering if you could suggest a way to set up my workout schedule- for example, I'm usually doing some sort triathlon training 6 days a week and am additionally lifting about 4. But I'm not sure, to make real strength gains, what exercises I should really focus on and where I would want to keep my rep ranges? I don't know if you care, but recently I have been getting into Crossfit workouts. I think that creating a hybrid program that includes exercises of high weight and intensity/ low reps, followed by a Crossfit style workout might be the best for me." Resources mentioned in my answer: Top 12 Resistance Training Routines for Endurance Athletes 2. From listener Karen: "Do you have any opinions on ice baths or cold water soaks?" 3. From listener Sal: "I am a serious marathon runner, and I currently use creatine in my training. I use it for several reasons. 1) It seems to be relatively safe with no side effects 2) Ill take anything that helps recovery 3) I currently do lower body work and core work in the gym, and i believe creatine helps me build those muscles However, creatine also causes me to carry extra water weight. I have heard that creatine does this, and I have noticed it myself. I carry a substantial amount of water weight around my midsection. After a long run where I sweat alot, I can see my abs, but if I take creatine and go a day or so without sweating, there is alot of bloating in my abs. I am worried that during taper this will have a negative effect. When I rest for my marathon, should I stop taking creatine? Or do I need to stop a few weeks in advance to get it out of my system. I want to get the benefits of it without carrying extra weight during the race. Also, will there be any problems with stopping taking it, like withdrawal symptoms? I currently take about 5g after workotus and 3g on non workout days in the morning." Websites mentioned in my answer: Cre

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 21, 2009 free audio episode, I address several additional listener Q&A's, including, among other things, the best type of cooking oils, what to do if your spouse doesn't eat healthy, how to gain weight without gaining fat, a simple way to increase daily caloric intake if energy levels are low, and food combination diets. But before we get to those topics, check out this video! httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=930g6s-Gi6I So, to summarize just click here on April 26 at 6pm Pacific time! On to this week's listener Q&A...remember that you can click here listen to all the answers in this week's free audio download! Make sure you have the free Quicktime player. Listener James asks: Just wondering about healthy oils - if you cook/heat oils such as olive oil, canola oil, flaxseed oil, does this spoil their healthy attributes? Listener Mindy asks:I read somewhere through your website about combination of foods to get the best digestion. 1. Eating fruit by itself. 2. Eat mostly carb OR protein meals. So my questions are: 1. Your Shape 21 book doesn't seem to follow these guidelines, so what is the best way? 2. I personally am finding it difficult to follow and understand those 7-8 guidelines that you listed and would love for you to talk more about it and give more examples of combinations of food that do work. I've attached an easy-to-understand food combining chart for Mindy... Listener Monica asks: I want to eat healthy, but my husband has a high metabolism and doesn't need to eat healthy. I don't have time to cook two dinners at night. What should I do? Listener Charles asks: For a long time now I have battling an eating disorder, anorexia and over exercise. I have been through a lot of treatment in the past and am currently still meeting with my support team and things are going well. I may not look too underweight, but I am not the weight by doctors would like me to be and body fat is around 3%. My goal is to get up to about 165 lbs- I am currently about 147- and the nutritionists and doctors have set a goal weight for me of about 172 since I am just about 6-feet tall. I was wondering if you had any advice on what type of a program I could do in order to: (a) help me gain healthy weight- NOT fat. (b) maintain the level of conditioning I have now- meaning to not get slower, as well as to build more muscle to improve my bike and swim.My nutritionist and I have developed a good healthy meal plan, but I am afraid if I gain weight, it will just all be fat and hurt my performance, even though I have been told repeatedly that with the way I work out and exercise. once I fuel my body correctly, I will see a lot of improvement. One of Ben's coached triathletes asks:I just wanted to let you know that my bike ride last week was great but I had quite a feeling of hunger about 3 1/2 - 4 hrs into the ride where I felt almost as if I was getting faint. I took in one more goo and that helped a little. There was no bloating which was good but that "empty" feeling made me feel weird. Also, I have been generally really hungry lately and I'm taking my supplements. Thoughts? 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. The first audioquestion I receive this week (meaning you actually have to call in via Skype or the toll-free number), will receive a FREE 3-Month Premium Subscription to TrainingPeaks, the world's top online fitness software. That's a $49 value! Having any trouble listening in to this podcast episode? You may need the free Quicktime player. Just click here. Also in this podcast episode... Special Announcements: -Click here for brand new information about an instant 25% discount and FREE shipping on Ben Greenfield's top recommended "Super Seven" supplements.This is your big opportunity to get a big box of all the supplements you've heard about in the podcast, delivered to your front step for you to try! -Ben Greenfield has arranged a 5% discount on food allergy, parasite, yeast, fungus, tissue mineral analysis and hormone testing offered by UniKey Health Systems. Simply visit the website or call (800) 888-4353 and reference name “Ben Greenfield” during your order. Need to know which test is right for you? Just e-mail Ben. -Congratulations to Marji, a 60 year old woman with a low metabolism and sagging energy levels who wants to reclaim her fitness and energy levels and running the Seattle Rock n’ Roll Half Marathon. Since her training with me began in January 2009, she has lost 14 pounds and shed 6% body fat, not to mention just powering through a 10K Race! Just click hereto read her story, watch her videos, listen into her phone calls and get free nutrition and f

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 14, 2009 free audio episode, I address the following listener Q&A's: Listener Jenny asks via call-in audio: Is there any difference between fish oil and flax seed oil? Will I get an advantage with taking one vs. the other? Or should I just take them both? -In my response, I give Jenny a detailed explanation that goes into the difference in oxidation, toxins, mercury, PCB's and saturated fat in fish oil vs. flax seed oil. Listener William asks:I was just reading an article in the newspaper about some people who have quit giving their children dairy in an attempt to get rid of skin eczema. How much of a correlation is there between milk and dairy consumption and presence of acne or other skin problems? -My response to William goes into great detail on all the different hormones in cow's milk and why they may be potentially hazardous, not just for acne, but for many other health conditions. I personally use powdered goat's milk, from a company called Mt. Capra. Listener Valarie asks: In your conversation with Dr. Akers, you talked about a stick. What is that? Where can I get one? How do you use it? -In the podcast, I reference a Muscletrac device, which, in my opinion, is one of the better options on the market. Listener Frank asks: I listened to your Podcast Episode #38, in which you talked about prostate health, especially for male cyclists. Can you talk more about the saw palmetto extract and rye pollen that you mentioned? -To answer Frank's question, I've featured in the podcast interview section a fantastic talk on the use of natural remedies such as saw palmetto extract, prostelan and rye pollen for prostate health, erectile dysfunction, and urinary issues. This is one of the best talks I've ever heard on the issue. It features Cary Nosler, who served as host of The Wide World of Health on KSTE-AM since 1994, and was previously the host of Best of Health on KFIA-AM, a spokesperson for IMPaX Healthprime and the developer of Captain Carrot Nutritional Products. Here's a link to the "Prostelan" that Cary talks about. 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. The first audioquestion I receive this week (meaning you actually have to call in via Skype or the toll-free number), will receive a FREE 3-Month Premium Subscription to TrainingPeaks, the world's top online fitness software. That's a $49 value! Having any trouble listening in to this podcast episode? You may need the free Quicktime player. Just click here. Also in this podcast episode... Special Announcements: -Congratulations to Farah, the 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! Since her training with me began in January 2009, she has lost 17 pounds of fat! Just click here to read her story, watch her videos, listen into her phone calls and get free nutrition and fitness training advice from her program. - "Holistic Fueling for Ironman Triathlon", class by Ben Greenfield, Friday, April 24, 6-7pm at Pilgrims on 1316 N. 4th Street, Coeur D' Alene Idaho: Learn exactly how to holistically fuel the body for Ironman triathlon training and racing. Designed and taught by triathlon coach and certified sports nutritionist Ben Greenfield, this hour-long clinic will teach you how to use healthy nutrition to maximize recovery, enhance performance, delay fatigue, boost immune system and achieve your ultimate Ironman goals. Whether training or racing, you'll discover that it actually is possible to consume the thousands of necessary calories per day without sacrificing your health. You'll leave with a triathlete grocery shopping list for pre-workouts, post-workouts, race day and much, much more! -Sunday, April 26, 6pm LIVE online video Q&A: "Ben Greenfield's Top Metabolism Boosting Exercises That Require NO Fancy Gym Equipment." - Learn the best body weight exercises for instantly burning fat, boosting heart rate, and enhancing lean muscle tightening and toning. On Sunday, April 26, at 6pm Pacific Time, simply click here to go to a LIVE online video Q&A and demonstration with Ben Greenfield (WATCH the video below to see why you don't want to miss this!). This free online live video conference was originally scheduled in March, but has been moved to April 26! - Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon C

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. This podcast is a must-listen for any of you out there who have chronic injuries, aches and pains that just won't go away, or a plateau in your physical or athletic performance. In this April 7, 2009 free audio interview, I speak with Dr. Herb Akers, who is a Chiropractor, Nutritionist, Applied Kinesiologist and Medical Intuitive. He is the founder and developer of the Art of Matrix-ReGeneration, a healing approach that combines traditional healing with an understanding of quantum physics. Dr. Akers believes in enhancing health and human performance through developing and expanding self-awareness, which occurs primarily through the release of physical, chemical and mental holding patterns. Fascial release, nutritional cleansing, and yoga are a few of the techniques that he uses synergistically to lay the groundwork for an understanding of what really ails the human body. During this interview, Dr. Akers teaches: -The amazing healing touch that he has developed since the age of 7 in New Zealand -The one anatomical part of your body that is the key to understanding injury everywhere else -How to use muscle feedback and biofeedback responses to diagnose functional problems -The secrets to overcome the mind's resistance to limitations, and expand the possibilities of what you can achieve -Why Quantum Theory plays a crucial role in the healing and performance process -How to "listen to" the body in order to balance the mind and achieve a path of healing -Why a simple ankle sprain could be one of the worst injuries that you will ever experience -What the "Rules of the Matrix" are, and how they are crucial to "fight and flight" athletic performance -How the simple act of walking could do more damage to your body than you think -Practical ways that you can incorporate the concepts discussed into your daily routine Also included in this podcast episode... Listener Q&A: Listener Steve asks: I read your latest article which emphasized leg exercises. However, are squats good for people over a certain age (ex: 40+, etc)? Is the juice worth the squeeze for us older athletes, or can we substitute another exercise in lieu of squats? In my answer, I include, in addition toSquat Video, I also introduce Steve to the One Leg Bridge Video, the One Arm Deadlift Video, the Lunge Video, and theMulti-Directional Lunge Video. Listener Stephen asks: One of your listeners mentioned about drinking diet pop/soda and we know how bad it is for you. But, I came across a product called Zevia and wanted to know if you approved this product at all. It has Stevia as the sweetener which I've heard you promote if you need to use a sweetener. The ingredients in Zevia are: Triple Filtered Carbonated Water, Natural Erythritol, Natural GMO-Free Caramel Color, Stevia leaf, Citric Acid and natural flavors. They have a cola that has natural caffeine and a natural ginger rootbeer. Is this OK? Listener Craig asks: I have a couple more questions. One is for a friend of mine. He’s interested in the ZMK and wanted to know if he should just take it for a month, or cycle it, or just take it as long as he wants to pay for it? Do any of these ways matter? I’m also curious about cutting. I’ve gained nearly 10 lbs since I last emailed you and want to cut a bit, but I don’t want to lose the muscle I’ve gained. I’m thinking about eating less and have read to eat 500 cals under my maintenance level. I’m also considering taking a thermogenic product like Muscletech’s Hydroxycut hardcore or millennium labs shred xs hardcore. I’ve never taken a product like either of these and was wondering if you knew about them? I want to cut the fat, without losing muscle and am not sure of the best way to do this. I’m currently on EAS creatine monohydrate, L-Glutamine, Universal Shock Therapy (an NO product), and millennium ZMK. Should I stop using creatine, the zmk, and the shock therapy if I use the thermogenic? Are any of these contradictory products that should not be taken together? I can see the individual benefits of each of these products, but I feel like there’s a lot of them and I might be over doing it a little. I am very interested in any advice you might have about a good combination of these products to attain my goal of more muscle and less fat. In my response to this question, I also mention and recommend fat-burning supplements Thermofactor and Leanfactor. 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. The first audio question I receive this week (meaning you actually have to call in via Skype or the toll-free number), will receive a FREE 3-Month Premium Subscription to TrainingPeaks, the world's top online fitness software. That's a $49 value! Special Announcements: -Many exciting updates on the eight individuals 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 podcast episode This is a jam-packed podcast episode! In the feature section of this March 31, 2009 free audio episode,Dr. Dallas Clouatre, a well-established author and consultant in the alternative and complimentary medicine and nutrition field, gives a compelling, thought-provoking, and incredibly informational talk on exactly how to rapidly accelerate fat loss, tone and enhance lean muscle tone using proven scientific techniques. Along the way, you'll learn some very fun and interesting facts, including: -Why fat is not a problem in your diet if you're trying to lose weight -Which nutrition compound exactly is the problem and how many pounds of it you unknowingly consume -Why something called "protein decoupling" is a key in weight loss, and how not understanding could cause failure to shed fat -How popular fat loss supplements can destroy your kidneys and leave you more likely to gain fat -A very simple explanation of why insulin is one of the prime keys to weight loss, and how even non-diabetics can have insulin resistance During this interview. Dr. Coutre doesdiscuss brand name "Impax" dietary supplements, particularly LeanFactor and ThermoFactor, mentioning the ingredients "Guggulsterones", "Forskolin" and "Advantra Z". But this is not meant to be a commercial for supplements - trust me, you're going to get alotof incredible information from this talk. Also included in this podcast episode: -Product Review: I review the cutting-edge "Yoga For Endurance Athletes" interactive DVD, which actually really impressed me, since I often don't have the time to attend, say, an hour-long yoga class. This DVD includes over 2 hours of yoga moves, but let's you "mix-n-match" your own sections, like IT bands, Shoulders, Breathing or Hamstrings. My wife and I actually were able to do a quick but highly effective 25 minute yoga workout while the kids were napping and we hit the exact sections we wanted by just selecting them on the DVD menu, without having to worry about driving to the gym, warm-up, or laying on the mat for 10 minutes afterwards (although that is an option on the DVD). There are also some pre-set routines, like "Strength", "Balance", or, my favorite, "Focus", which is supposed to get you ready for a race. Just below, here's a video with even more information and a demo. You can get the "Yoga For Endurance Athletes" DVD by clicking here. Listener Q&A: Ronnie asks: "I'm looking for a good energy drink - do spinning classes but feel quite tired through the class. I am fit but recently legs struggle a bit during class." Bob asks: "Ben, I have a couple questions. I am a relatively new triathlete (Olympic distance) and am also trying to lose about 20 pounds of body fat. Unfortunately, I am unemployed due to the economy and have limited funds. I have been struggling with feeling good on my workouts as well as with weight loss. My questions are: How does stress (mental such as stress of being unemployed) affect workout and weight loss? And how would you prioritize a limited budget for weight loss/workout? For example will I get my most bang for the buck with supplements and a store bought workout plan, or would I be better off spending all the money on a personal trainer, etc. I know that is vague but would appreciate the guidance. Thanks as always for the great support and advice." Call-in listener Drew also has a question about too much testosterone and whether or not it could be harmful for cross country runners. 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. The first audioquestion I receive this week (meaning you actually have to call in via Skype or the toll-free number), will receive a FREE 3-Month Premium Subscription to TrainingPeaks, the world's top online fitness software. That's a $49 value! Special Announcements: "Holistic Fueling for Ironman Triathlon", class by Ben Greenfield, Friday, April 24, 6-7pm at Pilgrims on 1316 N. 4th Street in in Coeur D' Alene Idaho: Learn exactly how to holistically fuel the body for Ironman triathlon training and racing. Designed and taught by triathlon coach and certified sports nutritionist Ben Greenfield, this hour-long clinic will teach you how to use healthy nutrition to maximize recovery, enhance performance, delay fatigue, boost immune system and achieve your ultimate Ironman goals. Whether training or racing, you'll discover that it actually is possible to consume the thousands of necessary calories per day without sacrificing your health. You'll leave with a triathlete grocery shopping list for pre-workouts, post-workouts, race day and much, much more! Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedb

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 24, 2009 free audio episode, I address several listener questions, including the following: -Listener Steven asks: "Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night; I usually go to the bathroom drink a half glass of water and go back to bed. But sometimes I have a little craving and sometimes have a handful of one of your trail mix recipes that I have stored in the frig, or a 1/4 or 1/2 of a Bumblebar with the water. Is this OK to do? Are these items OK or would you recommend something else? Is waking up in the middle of the night with a craving an indication of not getting enough of a particular nutrient (i.e. carbs)?" -Listener Karen asks: "I'm afraid my kids are addicted to junk food, but unfortunately Ben, I can't just start feeding them goat's milk and quinoa like your kids or they will run away forever. What's your advice on changing my childrens' diet?" -Listener Jason has a "call-in" Q&A on hydration, and I respond with discussion about a certain type of supplement that could allow you to "hyperhydrate". 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. The first audioquestion I receive this week (meaning you actually have to call in via Skype or the toll-free number), will receive a FREE 3-Month Premium Subscription to TrainingPeaks, the world's top online fitness software. That's a $49 value! Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. ----------------------------------------- Also included in this podcast: -Join Ben Greenfield's Affiliate Program - Make money and get a monthly commission check by featuring Ben Greenfield's books & programs on your website. Just click here to find out exactly how. - Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon Camp - Come train on the Ironman Coeur D'Alene course with coaches included Ben Greenfield for 4 days. The timing of this camp, just six weeks out from race day, cannot be better for those training for Ironman CdA. Race strategy, nutrition lectures, physiology testing, biomechanical analysis, and much, much more from American and Canadian coaches, physicians, and sports scientists. -"Supplement Mania"; Use 10% discount code "BGF" to receive a FREE SHIPPING on any of the supplements listed HERE, including the main ingredient of Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe- 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on the delta-E that Ben talks about in the podcast episode - a powerful nutrient rich combo of Green Tea, Pomegranate, Suntheanine (the purest form of L-Theanine) and the most bio-active form of B12 (Methylcobalamin), which supports healthy brain and nerve function. Extremely low sugar and carbohydrates, with no artificial sweeteners. -Ben Greenfield's new program "The IT Band Friection Fix" for bulletproofing your knee! Click here to go to http://www.bulletproofknee.com for this just released, step-by-step system with full video and text modules for teaching you cutting-edge training, nutritional and rehabilitation techniques to eliminate pain in the side of your knee from iliotibial band friction syndrome and tendonitis. -Triathletes can have access to full training programs written by Ben Greenfield at a fraction of the cost of monthly coaching INCLUDING THE BRAND NEW, RECENTLY RELEASED COMPLETE IRONMAN NUTRITION PLAN! Just click here to go to a website where you can review your training plan options and get a free TrainingPeaks account (P.S. Use code "BGF" for a $20 savings on any Ironman training plan, including the nutrition plan).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 week's March 15, 2009 audio podcast episodeis jam-packed with latest research for fitness and sports performance, including: -Do Muscles Respond Differently to Resistance Training vs. Bicycling? -Caloric Restriction & Sports Performance - Does Rapid Fat Loss Affect Cycling Endurance? -Monitoring High-Intensity Training by Heart Rate vs. Power -Alternatives to Lactate Threshold Testing -Does Aquatic Resistance Training Actually Work? -Massage & Recovery Listen in as I talk about the latest research on these topics, then turn to the Listener Q&A, in which listener Jen asks: Ben, further to your Fat Burning Secrets episode with John Gilbert re: taking in food/carbs during a 60 minute plus workout ... how much food/carbs would you suggest? And would that amount change based on the overall length of workout? Listener Paul asks: I am a 45 yo male. I did one sprint Tri last summer and I am training for 2-3 events this year also. I am a former bodybuilder who always wanted to get involved in endurance/tri training but the bodybuilding kept me from pursuing it due to the inevitable muscle loss. A ruptured disc and subsequent surgery changed all of that and my bodybuilding days are 100% done. I can do some ‘Jane Fonda’ workouts but I only do those to maintain some strength for tri training. Anyway, I try to eat right and I think I do pretty well for a weekend warrior. My big question is about diet soda. I do not drink alcohol, smoke or have any real vices expect that I drink a lot of pop (all diet of course). I probably drink 70-100 oz per day and I know that is too much. What is the truth regarding drinking pop? I have read that it is bad but I see a lot of conflicting information. Am I retarding my progress by ingesting this much pop? Is any amount acceptable? I know you are a straight shooter and you can back up your comments with science and that is why I am asking you. I appreciate your time and I will look forward to your answer. Remember, you can now ask your questions to me via the free Skype software by simply "Skyping" me at username "pacificfit". As for why I smell like a spa? We also have a bonus interview in this week's podcast, featuring Martha from ActionWipes! This is the all-natural Sport Spray and Wipe with eucalyptus, tea-tree oil, and a host of other natural ingredients that will give you that instant "I Just Went to the Spa" feeling...even after a hard workout. Martha talks about how the product was invented, and I talk about exactly how I incorporate it into my sports training routine, and why it never leaves my gym bag! Be sure to activate your 15% discount code "BGF" today by ordering at http://www.actionwipes.com! Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. -------------------------------------- Also included in this podcast: -Remember last week's interview with Josh Carter? I surfed over to Josh's website and checked out his book and a bunch of other very useful information. I want you to witness this yourself. Just click this link and you can see the video that blew me away. -Join Ben Greenfield's Affiliate Program - Make money and get a monthly commission check by featuring Ben Greenfield's books & programs on your website. Just click here to find out exactly how. - Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon Camp - Come train on the Ironman Coeur D'Alene course with coaches included Ben Greenfield for 4 days. The timing of this camp, just six weeks out from race day, cannot be better for those training for Ironman CdA. Race strategy, nutrition lectures, physiology testing, biomechanical analysis, and much, much more from American and Canadian coaches, physicians, and sports scientists. -Tuesday, March 17 & March 24, 6pm in Coeur D' Alene Idaho: "Ben Greenfield's Fat Burning Secrets" - Learn the exact exercise and nutritional secrets that Ben Greenfield uses to gain rapid fat loss and fitness results combined with optimum health. 6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. -"Delta-Tea"; Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe - 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on the delta-E that Ben talks about in the podcast episode - a powerful nutrient rich combo of Green Tea, Pomegranate, Suntheanine (the purest form of L-Theanine) and the most bio-active form of B12 (Methylcobalamin), which supports healthy brain and nerve function. Extremely low sugar and carbohydrates, with no artificial sweeteners. -Ben Greenfield's new program "The IT Band Friection Fix" for bulletproofing your knee! Click here to go to http://www.bulletproofknee.com for this just released, step-by-step system with full video and text modules for teaching you cutting-edge training, nutritional and rehabilitation techni

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 10, 2009 podcast, I interview Jeff Spencer, MA, DC. Dr. Spencer has worked with some of the world's most successful individuals, including Olympic, World, PGA, WTA, Tour de France, triathlon, motocross, and NASCAR champions, a World Series MVP, ultra-successful business executives, rock band legend and MLB and NFL athletes. His clients have won eight consecutive Tours de France, 22 national championships, Olympic medals and multiple world championships. In his book, Every Second Counts, pro cyclist Lance Armstrong said: "Jeff is part doctor, part guru, part medicine man...we believed Jeff could fix and any and all of our problems...While he fixed us physically, he also fixed us mentally...If you judged the most important man on the Postal team by the foot traffic in and out his door, then it was Jeff. Without him, we knew we'd never make it to Paris." During the interview, Jeff talks about the exact techniques that he implemented to garner such praise from Lance as well as the myriad of other pro athletes and teams who he helped achieve enormous success through proper muscle and biological system recovery from exercise. In this free audio podcast, Jeff and I discuss: -the underlying scientific basis behind his unique rapid recovery techniques -how he uses a technique called "Cold Laser" -why you need to eliminate "Inflammatory Pockets" -how muscle connective tissue length going into an event can make or break your performance -Jeff's opinion on nutrition supplements, including CoQ10, proteolytic enzymes, digestive enzymes, probiotics, and vitamin B complex -where a "stick" or "foam roller" might fit in and how you can use it -how the concept of "Earthing" fits into proper recovery and restorative sleep -the concept of "Prehabilitation" and Jeff's top resource for implementing it into your exercise lifestyle ...and more people than just "elite athletes" can benefit from Jeff's proven techniques! For example: Are you sore after exercise? Tired? Chronically fatigued? Do you get sick more when you start exercising? Do you have difficulty motivating yourself to perform a hard workout? Then listen in.The concepts Jeff discusses in the interview can affect the life of anyone, including a non-athlete individual who is working to achieve general fitness, fat loss or optimum wellness. In addition to the links provided above, Jeff also talks about his "Become Your Own Champion" website and the "Connect With Dr. Jeff" website. Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes pageand leave feedback. -------------------------------------- Also included in this podcast: -Remember last week's interview with Josh Carter? I surfed over to Josh's website and checked out his book and a bunch of other very useful information. I want you to witness this yourself. Just click this link and you can see the video that blew me away. -Listener Q&A: Listener Frances asks: I heard on the radio about a new multi-vitamin study that found that multi-vitamins don't actually give you any advantage. What do you think about this study? Just listen into the podcast for my answer, and remember, you can now ask your questions to me via the free Skype software by simply "Skyping" me at username "pacificfit". -Sunday, March 26, 6pm LIVE online video Q&A: "Ben Greenfield's Top Metabolism Boosting Exercises That Require NO Fancy Gym Equipment." - Learn the best body weight exercises for instantly burning fat, boosting heart rate, and enhancing lean muscle tightening and toning. On Sunday, March 26, at 6pm Pacific Time, simply click here to go to a LIVE online video Q&A and demonstration with Ben Greenfield (WATCH the video below to see why you don't want to miss this!) -Join Ben Greenfield's Affiliate Program - Make money and get a monthly commission check by featuring Ben Greenfield's books & programs on your website. Just click here to find out exactly how. - Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon Camp - Come train on the Ironman Coeur D'Alene course with coaches included Ben Greenfield for 4 days. The timing of this camp, just six weeks out from race day, cannot be better for those training for Ironman CdA. Race strategy, nutriton lectures, physiology testing, biomechanical analysis, and much, much more from American and Canadian coaches, physicians, and sports scientists. -Tuesday, March 17 & March 24, 6pm in Coeur D' Alene Idaho: "Ben Greenfield's Fat Burning Secrets" - Learn the exact exercise and nutritional secrets that Ben Greenfield uses to gain rapid fat loss and fitness results combined with optimum health. 6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. -"Delta-Tea"; Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe - 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on t

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. note: we had some audio issues in the final cut of this week's podcast, and during the introduction, the music drowns out my voice just a bit - don't worry, it gets better! The audio file is also a bit large this week - a 40mb download... This March 3, 2009 Double-Interview Podcast Episodebegins with a very frank discussion between myself and metabolism mastermind John Gilbert about the exact types of exercise routines that I use with my clients to achieve rapid and lasting fat loss and a tight, toned body, while still maintaining optimum health. We talk about: -What burns more fat? Aerobics, intervals or weightlifting? -How should exercise be timed? Morning vs. afternoon? Two-a-days? -How often should the workouts change-up? -What are sample workout routines that people can do? -What about eating during exercise? Can something you eat burn more fat during exercise? -How can you maximize effectiveness of fat loss without injury? -How can you maximize your ability to adhere to an exercise program so that your body keeps burning fat day-after-day? After this interview, I move on to a very exciting talk with body transformation expert and highly entertaining personal trainer Josh Carter,who introduces us to the cutting-edge techniques that he uses in his new book "100 Rep Workouts". During this amazing interview, Josh discusses: -How Josh went from being a fat guy to an incredibly ripped personal trainer in Hollywood. -Exactly what wastes tons of time in the gym. -How to workout with incredible effectiveness in as little as 5 minutes. -Josh's #1, top exercise for maximum fitness results. -How to put together a "100 Rep Style" workout like Josh has in his book. -What type of programs Josh does with the Hollywood stars and high-level executives that he trains in California. -Details on how to use Josh's new book in your program, whether you're beginner, intermediate or advanced (hint: a phone book and 5 feet of space might be all you need). I surfed over to Josh's websiteand checked out his book and a bunch of other very useful information. I want you to witness this yourself. Just click the link below and you can learn all about it and even see the video on his website that blew me away. Click Here ------------------------------------------------- Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback. And remember, you can now ask your questions to me via the free Skype software by simply "Skyping" me at username "pacificfit". Also in this week's podcast... Listener Q&A: Chip asks: I just stumbled upon your website and subscribed to your e-newsletter. I was hoping you may be able to help me, and thousands like me, with a question. How long does it take your metabolism to get back to normal after quitting smoking? Join Ben Greenfield's Affiliate Program: Make money and get a monthly commission check by featuring Ben Greenfield's books & programs on your website. Just click here to find out exactly how. Calendar of Events: Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon Camp- Come train on the Ironman Coeur D'Alene course for 4 days. The timing of this camp, just six weeks out from race day, cannot be better for those training for Ironman CdA. Race strategy, nutriton lectures, physiology testing, biomechanical analysis, and much, much more from American and Canadian coaches, physicians, and sports scientists. Tuesday, March 17 & March 24, 6pm in Coeur D' Alene Idaho: "Ben Greenfield's Fat Burning Secrets" - Learn the exact exercise and nutritional secrets that Ben Greenfield uses to gain rapid fat loss and fitness results combined with optimum health. 6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. Special Announcements: -"Delta-Tea"; Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe - 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on the delta-E that Ben talks about in the podcast episode - a powerful nutrient rich combo of Green Tea, Pomegranate, Suntheanine (the purest form of L-Theanine) and the most bio-active form of B12 (Methylcobalamin), which supports healthy brain and nerve function. Extremely low sugar and carbohydrates, with no artificial sweeteners. -Ben Greenfield's new program "The IT Band Friection Fix" for bulletproofing your knee! Click herefor this just released, step-by-step system with full video and text modules for teaching you cutting-edge training, nutritional and rehabilitation techniques to eliminate pain in the side of your knee from iliotibial band friction syndrome and tendonitis. -Triathletes can have access to full training programs written by Ben Greenfield at a fraction of the cost of monthly coaching. Just click here to go to a website where you can review your training plan options and get a free TrainingPeaks account (P.S. Use code "BGF" for a $20 savings on any Ironman trainin

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this February 24, 2009 free audio episode, I have a 20 minute conversation with Jennifer Sage, a master spinning instructor, about her new book "Keep It Real", and a huge number of tips, tricks and valuable information about indoor cycling and spin classes, including: The mechanics of pedaling on a spin bike with a weighted flywheel and the huge implications it has on training techniques, cadence and pedal stroke Which techniques are applicable to fitness, fat loss, and outdoor riding and which techniques you should sit out, no matter what your spin instructor says How to select your gear or hill (resistance) and your cadence to best simulate what you do outside, adhering to the rules of "specificity of training" 13 popular movements that all cyclists (and non-cyclists alike) must avoid in indoor cycling classes, and why How to increase your climbing skills and strength indoors How to improve your endurance and maximize fat burning and aerobic base How to change your program throughout the year (periodize) using indoor cycling classes A comparison of heart rate training zone methodologies and how to choose which one works best for your specific goals 13 drills for indoor cycling classes to optimize your technique 9 high intensity interval profiles to maximize your performance ...and many more tips on how to make the most of indoor cycling classes! This is a must-listen whether you're a spinning veteran or have never taken a spin class before. Here is a picture of Jennifer's new 14 chapter book "Keep It Real", which you can instantly download to your computer for only $19.97 by clicking here. (After reading, I was amazed at how powerful indoor cycling on a spin bike can actually be). Also In This Podcast Episode... Free Training & Nutrition Information from Ben: Just click here to check out the special training and nutrition secrets section of the website. Listener Q&A: Nate asks: What is your opinion on FRS healthy energy drinks? Comparing it to other sports performance supplements is it a good training product or is it just another celebrity endorsed product that is ineffective? Calendar of Events: Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon Camp- Come train on the Ironman Coeur D'Alene course for 4 days. The timing of this camp, just six weeks out from race day, cannot be better for those training for Ironman CdA. Race strategy, nutriton lectures, physiology testing, biomechanical analysis, and much, much more from American and Canadian coaches, physicians, and sports scientists. Tuesday, February 24: “Can Exercise Give You a Heart Attack?” - Exercise can decrease your risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease, but it can also be risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Whether your personal heart disease risk is purely genetic, or due to poor dietary and physical habits, you’ll discover from Ben Greenfield how to take the guesswork out of exercising for heart health, and learn how to stay safe during physical activity. 6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. Special Announcements: -"Delta-Tea"; Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe - 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on the delta-E that Ben talks about in the podcast episode - a powerful nutrient rich combo of Green Tea, Pomegranate, Suntheanine (the purest form of L-Theanine) and the most bio-active form of B12 (Methylcobalamin), which supports healthy brain and nerve function. Extremely low sugar and carbohydrates, with no artificial sweeteners. -Ben Greenfield's new program "The IT Band Friection Fix" for bulletproofing your knee! Click herefor this just released, step-by-step system with full video and text modules for teaching you cutting-edge training, nutritional and rehabilitation techniques to eliminate pain in the side of your knee from iliotibial band friction syndrome and tendonitis. -Triathletes can have access to full training programs written by Ben Greenfield at a fraction of the cost of monthly coaching. Just click here to go to a website where you can review your training plan options and get a free TrainingPeaks account (P.S. Use code "BGF" for a $20 savings on any Ironman training plan). -Did you miss the January 4 LIVE TV SPECIAL on fat loss by Ben Greenfield? Watch the 60+ minute lecture "The Synergy of Fat Loss" by clicking here and getting access to a secret video page for just $4.99! ------------------------------------------- That's all for this episode! In the future, we have upcoming episodes on maximizing swim performance, a fat burning fitness secrets seminar, and a featured podcast with Lance Armstrong's personal physical therapist... Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this February 17, 2009 free audio podcast,I interview Joe Stout about some very interesting properties of goat's milk that make it much, much different than cow's milk. During the discussion, Joe includes information on five compelling reasons to think a bit more about adding goat's milk into a diet for lean muscle, fat loss, or sports performance. Included in this talk: 1. The difference in allergic reactions between goat's milk and cow's milk, and why the difference exists. 2. What happens to cow's milk during homogenization that might make it especially dangerous for athletes and people worried about cancer. 3. Why the body absorbs goat's milk protein at a much, much faster rate than cow's milk protein. 4. What causes lactose intolerance, and why this rarely happens with goat's milk. 5. Why goat's milk "matches up" to the human body better than cow's milk. 6. Where you can get goat's milk if you don't have access to a raw, local source. Just click here. If you listened to Podcast Episode #16, you heard my previous interview with Joe. Joe received his Bachelors of Science degree in Human Nutrition and Food Science from Washington State University, where his coursework included Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physiology, Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiological Nutrition, Life Cycle Nutrition, Microbiology, Medical Nutrition Therapy, Clinical Nutrition Therapy, and Intermediary Nutritional Metabolism as well as many others. He is currently in the research field pursuing a Masters Degree in Clinical Human Nutrition studying among other things, Pathophysiologic Basis of Metabolic Diseases, Biochemistry of Nutrition, Clinical Biochemistry, Nutritional Therapeutics, and Evidence Based Nutrition. Joe is the editor of The High Road to Health newsletter, and he can be reached [email protected] Also In This Podcast: -Link to Ben Greenfield's Training Blog -Link to the powdered goat milk from Mt. Capra -Link to the Anti-Aging formula HCL+ discussed by Anne Louise Gittleman in Podcast Episode #29 -Link to Oil of Oregano AKA "Product X" from Podcast Episode #31 Calendar of Events: Saturday, May 9 - Thursday, May 14, 2009: The Critical Speed Coeur D' Alene Triathlon Camp- Come train on the Ironman Coeur D'Alene course for 4 days. The timing of this camp, just six weeks out from race day, cannot be better for those training for Ironman CdA. Race strategy, nutriton lectures, physiology testing, biomechanical analysis, and much, much more from American and Canadian coaches, physicians, and sports scientists. Sunday, February 22nd: "Pill Poppin' With Ben - LIVE ONLINE TV SHOW AND Q&A" In this FREE live video Q&A, Ben Greenfield will demonstrate to the audience the exact pills and dietary supplements that he takes on a daily basis. He'll explain how they work, what they do, and whether or not they would be recommended for your needs. Followed by a comprehensive Q&A where you can ask your personal questions about nutritional supplements. On February 22nd, Sunday, at 6pm Pacific time, you can click here to participate in this special program. Tuesday, February 24: “Can Exercise Give You a Heart Attack?” - Exercise can decrease your risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease, but it can also be risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Whether your personal heart disease risk is purely genetic, or due to poor dietary and physical habits, you’ll discover from Ben Greenfield how to take the guesswork out of exercising for heart health, and learn how to stay safe during physical activity. 6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. Special Announcements: -"Delta-Tea"; Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe - 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on the delta-E that Ben talks about in the podcast episode - a powerful nutrient rich combo of Green Tea, Pomegranate, Suntheanine (the purest form of L-Theanine) and the most bio-active form of B12 (Methylcobalamin), which supports healthy brain and nerve function. Extremely low sugar and carbohydrates, with no artificial sweeteners. -Ben Greenfield's new program "The IT Band Friection Fix" for bulletproofing your knee! Click herefor this just released, step-by-step system with full video and text modules for teaching you cutting-edge training, nutritional and rehabilitation techniques to eliminate pain in the side of your knee from iliotibial band friction syndrome and tendonitis. -Get paid to feature Ben Greenfield's comprehensive calorie-burning book "100 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism" on your website. When you feature a picture and advertisement for the book on your website, you'll also get your own FREE copy! Just click here to sign-up and get started. -Triathletes can have access to full training programs written by Ben Greenfield at a fraction of the cost of monthly coaching. Just click here to go to a website where you can review your

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. Alright folks - I usually don't get this excited about a discovery, but when we're talking about a substance that is all-natural, amazingly simple to find, and incredibly diverse, it is well worth the buzz. In this February 10, 2009 podcast, I interview a farmer in Palouse, Idaho. And what he reveals to me is going to blow your mind. Let's just call it "Product X" for now. Before I tell you more about Product X, I want to remind you about three important studies that are highly relevant to fat loss, and that are going to help you understand why your body is probably more messed up that you think it is. These are studies that your physician, personal trainer, and nutritionist are probably not going to tell you about. This is NOT run-of-the-mill fat loss advice. Here's the first study (and remember, you should read this part because it ties in very closely with Product X): 1) "Antibodies Against Food Antigens are Correlated with Inflammation and Intima Media Thickness in Obese Juveniles" What the HECK does that mean? This study looked at kids, half of whom were normal weight and half of whom were overweight (i.e. "obese juveniles"). The researchers measured the children's levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker for inflammation in the body. Then they used an ultrasound to look for plaque or thickening in the carotid arteries (the main arteries that supply the brain). Finally, they looked at blood tests for IgG, which show food allergies. Guess what? The overweight kids had 3 times higher CRP levels and 2.5 times higher IgG antibodies food allergy levels, and these values are almost 10 times higher than what other studies have found up to this point! The overweight kids also had much thicker carotid arteries - a huge risk for heart disease. How did this happen? When the gut is damaged by consumption of foods to which you are allergic, it becomes leaky, and these allergic food particles put your immune system on hyper-alert. Your hyped-up immune system then triggers an inflammatory response. And guess what happens next? Your cells become insensitive to insulin. This leads to insulin resistance. And insulin resistance leads to belly fat. So while you're busy counting calories and making sure that you drink the "skinny latte", I've got NEWS. It is WAY more important that your body is not allergy to those milk proteins then that you are drinking low calorie. And this is why I am now recommending that every one of my nutrition and exercise clients get food allergy testing. Especially the ones that are having trouble losing weight. But why take my word that a leaky gut causes inflammation? Here's another study: 2) "Metabolic endotoxemia initiates obesity and insulin resistance." This study looked at what causes a leaky gut. In this study, researchers fed thin mice a very high-fat diet. Why a high-fat diet? Because high-fat diets (and we're not talking about good fats like nuts and olives and avocadoes - we're talking about crackers, muffins, and margarine) promote toxin-producing bugs, and these bad bugs kill the good bugs. Interestingly, sugars do the same thing. Here's what the researchers discovered: the toxins produced in the mice triggered killed off the good bacteria in the stomach of the mice and produced inflammation and obesity. So let's do a review of what we've learned so far: A) food allergies make you fat; B) sugar and bad fats produce inflammation, which also makes you fat. BY THE WAY, "sugar" and "bad fats" include whole wheat muffins, pasta, wheat thin crackers, and organic ice cream. Here's the third and last study: 3) "The gut microbiota as an environmental factor that regulates fat storage." I'm going to keep this one short and sweet. This study found that people with good bugs in their gut lose weight quickly, and those with bad bugs in their gut gain weight and pile on body fat. And if you want to really get into the details of why, you should listen to Podcast Episode #29 with the Fat Flush Doctor. So now we know that gut inflammation, bad bugs, food allergies, toxins, fungus, and microbes can make you fat. Not to mention giving you chronic fatigue, bad sports performance, insomnia, repeated bouts of sickness, and a host of other problems. But how on earth does all this tie into Product X? Consider the following powerful excerpts: “(Washington, D.C.) Oil from the common herb Product X may be an effective treatment against dangerous, and sometimes drug-resistant bacteria, a Georgetown researcher has found. Two studies have shown that Product X Oil—and, in particular, Carvacrol, one of Product X's chemical components—appear to reduce infection as effectively as traditional antibiotics.… Harry G. Preuss, MD, MACN, CNS, Professor of Physiology and Biophysics, and his research team, tested Product X Oil on Staphylococcus bacteria—which is responsible for a variety of severe infections and is becoming i

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this February 3, 2009 podcast, Ben Greenfield features two exciting interviews! "Primal Reflex Release Technique", also known as PRRT, is sweeping the country as a fast and highly effective fix for troubling injuries, muscle spasm conditions, and annoying or frustrating pains in athletes and recreational exercisers. You've probably never heard of it because it has been flying under the radar compared to more expensive techniques or therapy modalities. In the first part of this podcast, Ben interviews Spokane physical therapist and wellness expert Jim Adcock about how PRRT actually works for problems like: -trigger points -muscle spasm -joint aches & pains -psychological stress If you have an injury you're trying to beat, you'll definitely want to listen in to this interview about primal reflex release technique! And speaking of psychological stress, the second interview in this episode is with Jolene Wilkinson, a top-notch triathlon coach over at Pacific Elite Fitness. As a pro triathlete and elite ITU competitor based out of Utah, Jolene specializes in both the mental and physical components of ultimate triathlon preparation, and in this interview, you'll find out... -Jolene's step-by-step goal setting system -What the acronym S-M-A-R-T stands for and why it can help you -How Ben Greenfield uses a simple Microsoft Word technique to plan his race season -What to do about a late-in-the-day race start like Ironman 70.3 Boise -And much more! After the interview, Ben also talks about online triathlon coaching and personal training options at Pacific Elite Fitness and the enormous amount of affordable personal guidance you can receive with a customized combination of phone calls, e-mails, and online workouts! ------------------------------------------------------------- Also Included In This Podcast: -"Delta-Tea"; Ben's Secret Energy Drink Tea Recipe - 1 packet delta-E mixed with 8oz hot water. Click here to get your hands on the delta-E that Ben talks about in the podcast episode - a powerful nutrient rich combo of Green Tea, Pomegranate, Suntheanine (the purest form of L-Theanine) and the most bio-active form of B12 (Methylcobalamin), which supports healthy brain and nerve function. Extremely low sugar and carbohydrates, with no artificial sweeteners. -Ben Greenfield's new program "The IT Band Friection Fix" for bulletproofing your knee!Click here for this just released, step-by-step system with full video and text modules for teaching you cutting-edge training, nutritional and rehabilitation techniques to eliminate pain in the side of your knee from iliotibial band friction syndrome and tendonitis. -Get paid to feature Ben Greenfield's comprehensive calorie-burning book "100 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism" on your website. When you feature a picture and advertisement for the book on your website, you'll also get your own FREE copy! Just click here to sign-up and get started. -Triathletes can have access to full training programs written by Ben Greenfield at a fraction of the cost of monthly coaching. Just click here to go to a website where you can review your training plan options and get a free TrainingPeaks account (P.S. Use code "BGF" for a $20 savings on any Ironman training plan). -Did you miss the January 4 LIVE TV SPECIAL on fat loss by Ben Greenfield? Watch the 60+ minute lecture "The Synergy of Fat Loss" by clicking here and getting access to a secret video page for just $4.99! -Upcoming Events: Tuesday, February 17, “Metabolic Testing 101” Learn from Ben Greenfield how exercise metabolic and resting metabolic testing can vastly improve weight loss, energy and physical performance by providing you with exact details on how to fuel your body and how to exercise at the ideal heart rate intensity for your unique physical profile.6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. Sunday, February 22nd: "Pill Poppin' With Ben - LIVE ONLINE TV SHOW AND Q&A" In this FREE live video Q&A, Ben Greenfield will demonstrate to the audience the exact pills and dietary supplements that he takes on a daily basis. He'll explain how they work, what they do, and whether or not they would be recommended for your needs. Followed by a comprehensive Q&A where you can ask your personal questions about nutritional supplements. On February 22nd, Sunday, at 6pm Pacific time, you can click here to participate in this special program. Tuesday, February 24: “Can Exercise Give You a Heart Attack?” Exercise can decrease your risk of heart attack and cardiovascular disease, but it can also be risky if you don’t know what you’re doing. Whether your personal heart disease risk is purely genetic, or due to poor dietary and physical habits, you’ll discover from Ben Greenfield how to take the guesswork out of exercising for heart health, and learn how to stay safe during physical activity. 6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. One of the most cutting-edge, exciting and life-changing interviews yet featured on our show! In this January 27, 2009 podcast, Ben Greenfield interviews New York Times bestselling author Ann Louise Gittleman about her brand new book, "The Gut Flush Plan". Ben gets the full scoop from Anne about dozens of tips, tricks and secrets that you can use to cleanse your body of toxins, maximize athletic performance, destroy the yeast, superbugs, parasites growing in your gut, and eliminate food sensitivities. Included in this episode: -The exact foods that you must begin avoiding today if you want to maximize your energy -The #1 recommended way to get tested for food allergies (hint: it ain't blood) -Ann's 3 most recommended compounds for reversing the damage that you've done to your digestive system -A top-secret Romanian supplement that Ben Greenfield has never heard of, but that he's going to try -Two herbs that will wreak havoc on the bad bacteria in your gut -Why someone who has a perfect exercise program and seems to be eating healthy can still not lose any weight, and might actually be gaining fat -How a runner, a cyclist, a swimmer, a triathlete or a weightlifter can use this type of information to massively boost performance You can e-mail Ann at [email protected] and you can get her book here. -------------------------------------------- Also In This Podcast -Listener Q&A:Listener Jen asks... Ben, I discovered your site last year from an article you'd written on Training Peaks and loved that one of your focuses is metabolic rates. From someone that has struggled for years with food/weight/exercise, to hear someone actually SAY that isn't just "calories in, calories out" was like a salve to these woefully sore ears! Anyway. On to my question, with a bit of a backstory ... 2 years ago I had a Deep Vein Thrombosis in my left leg. It was treated and I was told the clot had "dissolved". One year ago I started on my Ironman Journey - training and completing an ironman before my 50th birthday - which I'll be doing this August (2009) in Louisville KY. (my son is doing it with me!) Despite medical reassurances that everything is "normal" I continue to have issues with my left leg - a pulled hamstring last year - occasional soreness in my left knee if I'm not very careful. (ie track workouts seem to be really hard on it, stretching religiously etc.). To heal the hamstring last year my PT used Craniosacral Therapy with good results and told me there was an imbalance/blocked energy in my left leg. Fast forward to last week and again, a track workout started playing havoc with my left leg. Focusing on energy flow I can "feel" the blockage. Now to my question ... is there perhaps a nutrition regime through food and/or supplements that are known for creating good energy/blood flow? I'm surmising that I sustained vein damage from the DVT but if I could create more vein/blood flow in that leg I might circumvent further problems as I continue to ramp up my training. Click here to listen to the podcast episode with Ben's response...also, here is a link to a nitric oxide containing product that Ben recommends: Millennium Sports Carnage. -Research Corner: Research from the Journal of Strength & Conditioning including: The effect of rest intervals on the hormonal and strength response to exercise... The effect of compression socks on running performance, whether or not core strength actually helps runners... Whether cycling and running testing needs to be done at different times... The effect of caffeine on sports-specific endurance performance... -Special Announcements: -Want to be paid to feature Ben Greenfield's cutting-edge calorie-burning book "100 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism" on your website? Just click here to sign-up and get started. -Triathletes can have access to full training programs written by Ben Greenfield at a fraction of the cost of monthly coaching. Just click here to go to a website where you can review your training plan options and get a free TrainingPeaks account (P.S. Use code "BGF" for a $20 savings on any Ironman training plan). -Did you miss the January 4 LIVE TV SPECIAL on fat loss by Ben Greenfield? Watch the 60+ minute lecture "The Synergy of Fat Loss" by clicking here and getting access to a secret video page for just $4.99! -Upcoming Events: Tuesday, February 17, “Metabolic Testing 101” Learn from Ben Greenfield how exercise metabolic and resting metabolic testing can vastly improve weight loss, energy and physical performance by providing you with exact details on how to fuel your body and how to exercise at the ideal heart rate intensity for your unique physical profile.6-7pm at Pilgrim's Health Education Center in Coeur D' Alene, Idaho. Sunday, February 22nd: "Pill Poppin' With Ben - LIVE ONLINE TV SHOW AND Q&A" In this FREE live video Q&A, Ben Greenfield will demonstrate to the audience the exact pills and d

Click to Subscribe to All Ben's Fitness & Get A Free Surprise Gift from Ben. In this December 29, 2008 podcast, I interview personal trainer, strength and conditioning coach, and health specialist Paul Eastwood about dairy products and the effect of milk on the human body. There is quite a bit of confusion about whether dairy is good for fat loss, human performance, and overall health, and Paul and I have a conversation about some important things to consider before you tip back that glass of milk or grab another serving of string cheese. Included in our discussion: Is milk a “low glycemic index” food, and if so, is that a good thing? How has the dairy industry changed over the past century, for better or worse? Is raw milk even safe? How can you get it? Are soy milk, almond milk, or rice milk good alternatives to cow milk? What about milk from animals other than cows? What about osteoporosis? Is that a concern for non-milk drinkers? For further resources, Paul recommended the following books: “The Deadly Dairy Deception” by Dr. Robert Bibb “Don’t Drink Your Milk” by Dr. Frank Oski “How to Eat, Move, and Be Healthy” by Paul Chek If you have more questions about this topic, you can reach Paul Eastwood at [email protected]. Also mentioned in this podcast: -December 31 at midnight is the deadline for your special opportunity that allows me to be your personal nutritionist and fitness coach for 2009. This new program begins on January 1st, and when you sign-up, your package includes a FREE Gymstick, a FREE bottle of Thermo-Factor metabolism-boosting supplement, a FREE bottle of Enerprime Superfood Multivitamin, a FREE copy of "100 Ways to Boost Your Metabolism", unlimited phone and e-mail access...and 1 full year of monthly personal meetings with me. The entire program is $149/month. You MUST sign-up BY midnight on December 31. Click here to go to a page where you can sign-up for the first month of your package and be directed to a comprehensive goals questionnaire. Simply e-mail [email protected] with any questions. -New audio nutrition added to the fat loss story at http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/help! I recorded our conversation on fat loss nutrition, and you can listen to it below: -Are you a triathlete in the Northwest? I've written specific training plans for TriNW events like Blue Lake, Pacific Crest, and Black Diamond! Click here for details. -Other Special Discount Codes: "HOLIDAY" is the $10 discount code for the Gymstick portable exercise tool. Order today from http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com/gymstick. Ironman Canada Training Plan, for January 1-August 30, 2009 - just $179 with $20 discount code "BGF"! Order today from http://www.pacificfit.net/ironmancanada.html . Ironman Coeur D' Alene Training Plan, for January 1-June 21, 2009 - just $179 with $20 discount code "BGF"! Order today from http://www.pacificfit.net/qualityoverquantity.html . January 4th offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is your chance to participate in a FREE and LIVE 90 minute video interview and Q&A session with me, where I will give away my most highly effective fat-loss strategies for 2009. On Sunday, January 4, at 5:00pm Pacific Standard Time, all you need to do simply point your browser to: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/ben-greenfield-fitness, where you'll be able to watch and interact with me as I tells you exactly what to do to reach your specific goals. Write it on your calendar now...you won't want to miss this one! -Also, for you local Spokane/Coeur D' Alene people, check out below: -Finally, I came across an interesting website that I wanted to share with you. There are some good weight loss tips and health tips. Be sure to leave our podcast a rating in iTunes! Just click here to go to our iTunes page and leave feedback.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.