Iron Culture presented by MASS

MASS Research Review
  • 5.0 (10)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Iron Culture was started as a means of exploring the world of physical culture and attempting to distill a unified philosophy of lifting and to help listeners find greater meaning from the iron. It focuses on dispensing practical, useful information to the listener, bouncing from history, to philosophy, to contemporary lifting culture issues, to science. Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review.

  1. 1D AGO

    Ep 369 - New Controversy in LDL Research

    Editorial note:  We recorded this episode on March 4. This is an important detail for contextualizing the timeline of events discussed in this episode, as well as our understanding of the matter at the time of recording.  Since we recorded this episode, the paper discussed has been officially retracted. We will provide additional updates on this story as they become available.   Episode summary: Join Eric Trexler and Eric Helms as they dissect the chaotic rollout of a controversial study on LDL cholesterol and lean mass hyper responders, explore issues in science communication, and debate the integrity of research in the age of social media. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" at elitefts.com for a 10% discount   Chapters 00:00 Intro 09:18 Social media dust-up 17:27 Revisiting the “Lean Mass Hyper Responder Study” 23:25 New controversy surrounding the study 33:14 Investigations regarding data integrity 41:43 Historical Context: NUSI and Its Implications 50:55 Steelmanning the argument 55:22 Potential issues with the “citizen science” movement 01:01:50 The death of expertise and the future of science communication

    1h 19m

  2. MAR 11 · BONUS

    Iron Stronger - 1%er Habits The Best Do In Bodybuilding (with Eric Helms & Steve Hall)

    In this episode, Steve Hall and Eric Helms discuss the evolution of their podcast, the importance of community feedback, and the dynamics of online culture. They delve into personality traits that influence social media behavior, the misconceptions surrounding pop science, and the significance of evidence-based practices in coaching and bodybuilding. Eric shares insights about his new role in academia and the responsibilities that come with it, while also exploring the 1% factors that can lead to success in bodybuilding. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on supplements, health practices, and the importance of being informed about one's health. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, please consider supporting our friends over at elitefts.com (and use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount!) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Naming the Podcast 02:48 The Psychology of Online Fitness Culture 05:39 Personality Traits and Social Media Engagement 08:05 Debunking Pop Psychology Myths 10:48 The Evolution of Online Coaching 13:49 Eric's New Role and Responsibilities 16:40 Leadership in Academia 19:22 The Structure of Academic Institutions 22:10 Reflections on Leadership and Responsibility 37:07 The Pursuit of the 1% in Bodybuilding 40:04 Training Philosophy and Personal Context 43:01 Evaluating Training Volume and Time Management 45:41 Investing in Muscle Growth: The Cost-Benefit Analysis 49:27 The Role of Supplements and Nutrition 55:39 Final Thoughts and Future Discussions

    1h 15m

  3. MAR 5

    Ep 368 - Sheffield 2025 Champ Kjell Bakkelund

    In this episode, powerlifter Kjell Bakkelund shares his journey, strategic weight management, and insights into longevity and performance in powerlifting. Discover how he overcame setbacks, optimized nutrition, and maintained motivation over a 19-year career. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, please be sure to support our friends and save some money by using code "MRR10" for a 10% discount at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction 07:57 The Weight Cut Experience and Its Challenges 15:07 Strategic Deception and Preparation for Sheffield 20:20 Reflections on Training and Dieting 25:29 Kjell's Competitive History and Evolution 37:10 Comparing Past and Present Strength Levels 44:09 The Turning Point: A Podium Decision 49:17 Nutrition and Performance: A Game Changer 56:41 Mindset Shifts: Embracing the Journey 01:02:11 The Importance of Flexibility in Dieting

    1h 20m

  4. FEB 27

    Ep 367 - Q&A

    In this episode, hosts Eric Trexler and Eric Helms explore a wide range of topics including the culture of bodybuilding, the impact of step counts on health, protein intake nuances, and the effects of various performance-enhancing drugs. They also address common misconceptions and recent research findings, providing practical insights for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike. Be sure to support us (and our friends!) by using code "MRR10" for 10% off your order at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 05:26 Who can claim to be a "Bodybuilder" 14:35 Protein Intake and Muscle Protein Synthesis 25:39 Soy Intake and Its Effects on Hormones 31:10 Step count "limits" 39:44 Clarification related to soy intake 44:32 Trex research updates & Constrained Energy Expenditure Model 56:50 Exercise energy compensation: natural vs enhanced lifters 01:04:52 Hypertrophy and Proximity to Failure: Insights from Meta-Analysis

    1h 21m

  5. FEB 18

    Ep 366 - New Studies: Long Muscle Lengths & Muscle Swelling

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Trexler and Eric Helms discuss perpetually hot topics in the fitness and bodybuilding community, focusing on recent research findings related to training at long muscle lengths and the implications of muscle swelling on hypertrophy reserach. They explore the nuances of lengthened bias training, the importance of sampling variance in research, and the impact of muscle swelling on hypertrophy measurements. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use discount code "MRR10" for a 10% discount at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 04:39 Research Roundup: Lengthened Bias Training 07:20 Study Findings and Interpretations 10:24 Contextualizing Research in Fitness 13:53 Incremental Improvements in Research 17:10 Understanding Muscle Mechanics and Training Equipment 23:23 Sampling Variance and Its Impact on Research Interpretation 37:33 The Debate on Lengthened vs. Shortened Training 49:20 New Insights on Muscle Swelling and Hypertrophy 58:46 Understanding Muscle Performance and Recovery 01:03:39 The Debate on Training Volume and Hypertrophy 01:12:09 Wrapping up

    1h 17m

  6. FEB 12

    Ep 365 - The Science Behind Toxic Online Fitness Culture

    Have you noticed that real life fitness culture is awesome, but online fitness culture sucks? Yeah, us too. In this episode, the Erics discuss why toxic online fitness culture is the way it is, leaning on actual scientific research on which personality types are dictating discourse and driving engagement. The conversation ends with practical tips for strategically cultivating a better experience on social media platforms. By the way - are you in the market for some fitness gear or apparel? If so, head over to elitefts.com to support our friends and use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount. Chapters 00:00 Intro 6:58 IRL fitness versus online fitness 17:33 Personality traits and states; types of narcissism 21:51 Traits of influencers 32:00 Traits of frequent posters/users 35:44 How being on social media (transiently) changes personality states 44:45 Skepticism versus cynicism 54:51 Practical tips for strategically cultivating a better experience

    1h 8m

  7. FEB 2

    BONUS - Confidence, Self-Doubt & Thinking Clearly in the Fitness Industry - Eric Helms & Steve Hall

    In this episode, Eric Helms and Steve Hall engage in a deep conversation about their experiences in bodybuilding, academia, and personal growth.  They discuss the challenges of naming their podcast, the impact of ADHD on Eric's life, and the importance of critical thinking in the fitness industry. The conversation also touches on the concept of imposter syndrome, the black-pilled perspective on muscle growth, and the significance of maintaining a positive mindset in training.  Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the value of process over outcome and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the pursuit of fitness goals. If you’re in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code “MRR10" for a 10% discount) Chapters 00:00 Podcast Naming Dilemma 03:04 Personal Reflections and Mutual Respect 06:03 Academic Journey and Self-Discovery 11:47 Understanding ADHD and Personal Growth 18:02 Imposter Syndrome and Its Impact 32:47 Critical Thinking in the Fitness Industry 37:54 The Importance of Self-Review 38:21 Confidence vs. Imposter Syndrome 40:16 Navigating Guru Culture in Fitness 42:22 Critical Thinking and the Role of Gurus 45:23 The Dangers of Blind Trust in Experts 48:17 The Mixed Bag of Fitness Influencers 49:42 Ego and the Quest for Clout 51:39 Teaching Critical Thinking in Fitness 53:32 The Journey of Personal Growth 57:16 Debating Natural Muscle Growth Potential 01:01:23 Understanding Individual vs. Population Data 01:06:05 The Optimistic Bodybuilder's Mindset 01:10:49 Pushing Limits and Personal Growth 01:15:13 The Process Over Outcome Mindset 01:20:54 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

    1h 22m

  8. JAN 27

    Ep 364 - The Evolution of Physical Culture (ft. Dr. Conor Heffernan)

    In this episode of Iron Culture, Dr. Eric Helms and Dr. Conor Heffernan delve into the rich history of fitness and physical culture, exploring how exercise has evolved globally and the impact of historical figures on modern fitness paradigms. They discuss the globalization of exercise practices, the marketing strategies that have persisted since the 1890s, and the importance of understanding fitness history to inform current practices. The conversation emphasizes the interplay between science and history in fitness, encouraging listeners to be curious and explore the past to enhance their understanding of the present and future of fitness. If you’re in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code “MRR10" for a 10% discount) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 03:07 The Evolution of Fitness and Physical Culture 05:50 Exploring Globalization in Fitness 09:02 The Concept of a Global Body 12:13 Historical Context of Fitness Practices 15:04 The Marketing of Fitness Through History 17:57 The Role of Historical Context in Modern Fitness 20:59 The Innate Human Desire for Strength 23:59 The Impact of Industrialization on Fitness 26:51 The Controversies in Fitness History 30:00 The Future of Fitness and Historical Lessons 35:49 The Intersection of Science and Tradition in Fitness 38:11 Understanding Historical Context in Bodybuilding 40:29 The Evolution of Fitness Standards Over Time 42:25 The Fluidity of Fitness: Adapting to Change 48:13 The Role of Equipment in Shaping Training Outcomes 53:12 Exploring Alternative Paths in Fitness History 01:01:37 The Specialization Era: A Double-Edged Sword 01:06:18 Curiosity and Engagement in Fitness History

    1h 11m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Iron Culture was started as a means of exploring the world of physical culture and attempting to distill a unified philosophy of lifting and to help listeners find greater meaning from the iron. It focuses on dispensing practical, useful information to the listener, bouncing from history, to philosophy, to contemporary lifting culture issues, to science. Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review.

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