If you coach or train seriously, you have probably had to weigh different sources of training advice against each other.

A successful coach recommends one approach. A research paper seems to suggest another. A physiology-based explanation points somewhere else.

In this episode, I speak with Dr Eric Helms about how to think through those conflicts without becoming dogmatic about any one source.

Dr Helms is a PhD researcher in strength and hypertrophy, a coach of physique and strength athletes, and a high-level natural bodybuilder.

Some of what we discuss:

• Why success leaves clues, not answers

• What we can and can’t learn from successful athletes and coaches

• Why individual hypertrophy studies can seem to conflict

• How to use reviews and position stands without outsourcing your judgement

• When physiology-based explanations sound more certain than the evidence allows

This is the first part of a longer conversation with Eric. The second part moves further into the practical programming questions.

Guest and Resources

Dr Eric Helms

• 3D Muscle Journey: https://www.3dmusclejourney.com/about/

• The Muscle and Strength Pyramids: https://muscleandstrengthpyramids.com/

• Research profile: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Eric-Helms-2

Resources mentioned:

• Stark Center for Physical Culture and Sports: https://starkcenter.org/

• Iron Game History journal: https://starkcenter.org/research/iron-game-history

Host:

Dr Tony BoutagyExercise scientist and coach translating exercise science into practical training and programming decisions.Instagram: @tonyboutagyCourses, seminars, and resources: https://tonyboutagy.com/