M&F Reps

Plunge's co-founder and co-CEO, Ryan Duey, discusses how his team transformed Plunge from a pandemic-hatched concept into a thriving business. In addition, we delve into the numerous advantages cold plunges offer for overall health, mental fitness, and recovery. We also explore Plunge's latest product – the sauna – and explain why equipment like assault bikes and exercises like kettlebell swings are essential for fitness enthusiasts.   Host: Muscle & Fitness Editor-in-Chief / Chief Content Officer Zack ZeiglerWeb: www.muscleandfitness.com

Muscle & Fitness Editor-in-Chief Zack Zeigler and Spartan Deka rep. Nelson Diaz discuss their past Death Race experiences — Zack is 0-2 and Nelson 0-3 — and why they're both again going to Pittsfield, Vermont, to take on one of — if not the —  toughest events in extreme endurance racing.  #letmein #spartandeathrace #peackdeathrace #2023summerdeathrace

Nick Bare, a U.S. Army vet, and Army Ranger school graduate, explains how he utilized his mental grit and fitness to overcome an eating disorder and shape his entrepreneurial journey while creating Bare Performance Nutrition.

Muscle & Fitness Chief Content Officer Zack Zeigler speaks with GYMGUYZ founder and CEO Josh York about how York took his fitness idea from his parent's dining room to a global franchise.  More from M&F: Web: muscleandfitness.com Apple Podcasts: Apple Podcasts Spotify: Spotify Google Podcasts: Google Podcasts Stitcher: Stitcher

Trent Ward is the founder and CEO of Forme (https://formelife.com/), the producer of two smart mirrors — Forme Studio and Forme Lift — that compete with brands like Mirror and Tonal. What makes Forme different? For starters, aesthetics were as important as functionality. (Seriously, how many fitness mirrors do you see get covered in magazines about architecture?)  Also, the Forme hardware is 68 inches, which is larger than both Mirror and Tonal. Plus, it features a 4K screen that's useful if you opt in to the live coaching feature. If you spring for the Lift ($5,995), you'll have access to 200 pounds of total resistance. If you want the Studio, you'll spend about $2,500. So yeah, it's pricey. See what Ward says sets his product apart from other smart mirrors and what early mistakes he made as CEO. *Support for M&F Reps is brought to you by manscaped.com. Use code "REPS20" for 20% off your order. #sponsored

The Monster Factory on Apple TV Plus is a six-episode docu-series that provides an insightful perspective into the world of professional wrestling, featuring an eccentric group of aspiring wrestlers and their passionate coach, Danny Cage.  Cage, owner of the Monster Factory Pro Wrestling School, a former wrestler himself turned coach, spoke with M&F about his experience in the pro wrestling industry and offered priceless insights into his coaching approach. Whether you are a fan of wrestling or not, this series offers a compelling look into the complex issues faced by the wrestlers both inside and outside of the ring, such as struggles with confidence, fear, and confronting adversities head-on.  Check out the Monster Factory series on AppleTV+ here.

Wake Forest-bound pitcher Andrew Koshi joins us to discuss what it takes for athletes like himself, who wish to play at a high level, to avoid coming up short. Also, we cover the importance of mental preparation and the his advice for aspiring student-athletes.

Jared White is the director of development at IMG Academy. So, uh, what does that involve? Well *deep breathe* he oversees staff management and daily operations for the Athletic Training, Strength & Conditioning and Nutrition departments. IMG Academy is a Florida-based school that has earned a stellar rep for aiding student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom. Here, White offers input and advice for coaches to improve communication with athletes, as well as providing current athletes and even rec athletes advice for building mental toughness.

Spartan CEO and founder Joe De Sena explains why fear is usually factional, how he's approaching building his business back up after COVID, and why working from home has had unforeseen drawbacks for peoples' mental health dn motivation.    More: M&F's Best Joe De Sena Quotes

Dr. Duncan Simpson, the Director of Personal Development at IMG Academy, oversees a staff of mental and leadership coaches who provide guidance to student-athletes representing eight different sports. He has a wealth of experience and knowledge to offer when it comes to achieving success both on the field and in life outside of the athletic realm. Dr. Simpson’s tips on personal development, growth mindset, leadership skills, time management, and other topics can help student-athletes reach their maximum potential and excel in their academic and professional pursuits.

To create the personalized, pro-inspired workouts in the Gx app, Dan Schaefer, PhD. had to focus more "quality of movement and exercise" rather than get stuck on included specific exercises.  In this discussion, the former Florida State University strength and conditioning coach and current assistant professor pulls back the curtain on his career progression, his advice for others who want to become S&C coaches, and where he'd like to see the Gx app in the future. More info and interviews from the GSSI and Gx team here.

One of the big projects Drew Palin — Gatorade’s Senior Director of Innovation and Ecosystem — recently worked on was the overhaul of the GX app, which is a free training tool with workout programs and science-backed info for future athletes, current athletes, and people who want to tear themselves off the couch and do athletic things.

Eric Freese, MS, Ph.D., is a principal scientist at the Gatorade Sports Science Institute (GSSI) in Frisco, Texas. Eric and his team are more involved in capturing and using data to help athletes perform better and less involved with finding new flavors for Gatorade drinks. More: https://www.muscleandfitness.com/gatorade-gx-app/

At 53, pro wrestling great and Olympia gold medalist Kurt Angle has put a lot of miles on his muscles and joints. This ultimately led to an addiction to substance abuse, recovery, surgeries, self-doubt, and, after retiring, depression.  But he managed to find happiness and embrace his new lifestyle since stepping away from the ring in 2017. Between staying busy running his Physically Fit nutrition business, hosting his podcast The Kurt Angle Show, taking acting classes, and chauffeuring his kids, he took a timeout to chat with M&F Reps host Zack Zeigler.

M&F Chief Content Officer and Reps host Zack Zeigler speaks with the minds behind the  recently revamped Gx App from Gatorade to discuss their mission: “Democratize sports science.” What’s that mean? It’s basically a fancy way of saying that Gatorade curated a group of extremely smart and dedicated scientists, strength coaches, and creative minds to ensure that the revamped Gx App was a well-researched and info-filled reference tool that provided personalized training and nutrition programs for athletes of all skill levels. Yeah, this is sponsored content, but seriously, the app has a TON of info, and it’s priced to move (aka, it’s FREE). Think we’re BSing you? Hear what these fellas have to say about the years of work that went into creating Gx V2.0: Eric Freese, MS, Ph.D., the Principal Scientist, Gatorade Sports Science Institute Dan Schaefer, Ph.D.:  Strength Coach & Gx Lead Programmer Drew Palin:  Senior Director, Digital Innovation & Ecosystem, Gatorade Wanna know who's saying what? Watch a video of the interview here: https://www.muscleandfitness.com/gatorade-gx-app/

What? Did you think all we talk about is sets and reps? Nah, let's dive into sexual health and wellness with host Zack Zeigler (@zraz) and Dr. Chelsie Reed, author of the book Sexpert: Desire, Passion, Sensations, Intimacy, and Orgasm to Indulge in Your Best Sex Life.

Since 2016 the folks at Forward have been pushing to overhaul how we approach and experience healthcare in the U.S. In this interview, Forward cofounder Robert Sebastian explains how using tech and a long-term approach to encourage healthier habits will hopefully catch issues early rather than wait until it's too late — or too expensive — to fix.

Vernon Davis was a two-time Pro Bowler and on the Denver Broncos Super Bowl 50 championship team. His post-NFL schedule has been busy, too: he's hosted the ESPY Awards, been a contestant on Dancing with the Stars, and was a recent judge on Domino Masters.  Davis dropped by M&F Reps Live to chat about how his training has changed since his playing days, pilates for athletes, and what's next for his media career.

Mat Fraser — 5x World's Fittest Man — joins Zack and Mike on M&F Reps Live! to discuss retirement, his training philosophy, his new app, and what's next for his career.

M&F Reps Live with guests Edge & Beth Phoenix (skip to 40-min mark for the interview) WWE Superstars (and husband and wife) Edge & Beth Phoenix talk training & nutrition, teaming up for a match at the #royalrumble, and how to balance life on the road with parenting. Edge & Beth take on another husband-and-wife duo, Miz & Maryse, at the Royal Rumble on Jan. 29. Stream it on Peacock TV #wwe #Edge #RoyalRumble #royalrumble2022 #wrestling #prowrestling

Topics include a tribute to the late, great Shawn Perine, New Zealand's tobacco ban, and the GymPin.

Discussions around fitness, health, wellness, training, nutrition, and plenty of other stuff mixed in with technical difficulties, complaints, and audience interaction.

Discussions around fitness, health, wellness, training, nutrition, and plenty of other stuff mixed in with technical difficulties, complaints, meltdowns (mostly Zack), and audience interaction. Ali's Testosterone School Link:  https://www.thetestosteroneschool.com/get-on-the-list-for-testosterone-school

Zack Zeigler and Mike Myers discuss fitness, health, wellness, training, nutrition, and plenty of other stuff mixed in with technical difficulties, complaints, and audience interaction.

Jeff Halevy, CEO of Altis Movement Technologies, has spent more than 15 years in the fitness industry. Halevy's latest venture, creating an AI personal trainer, could be the one that truly shakes up the business.

Erik Bartell is a military veteran, fitness coach, and entrepreneur who has worked with major brands such as Performix, Fit-Ops Foundation, Spartan Race, and most recently, Bravo Sierra.  His journey into the fitness industry wasn't linear, but his drive and talents have ensured he's continued to be successful at every stop.

Nutrition, hormone, and lifestyle optimization coach Ali Gilbert Weingroff and M&F's Zack Zeigler discuss why testosterone levels are falling worldwide as well as therapies and strategies to combat low T. Hopefully you find the discussion worthwhile and not sucky. Enjoy!

Topics include M&F's return to print, celebrity coach Don Saladino's cover shoot, the lasting impact of the pandemic on the fitness industry, and more!

Bounty Tank is Youtube's best bounty hunter, and he also happens to be a crazy fit bodybuilder. On this episode, he discusses his potential show being passed on for "political" reasons, why it's essential to be in shape, and how he went from being a nurse to a bounty hunter.

Joe DeFranco, the world-renowned strength and condition coach dishes on why and how he’s transitioned his training style with age. DeFranco also dishes on how he's maneuvered through the COVID-19 pandemic, and how he's stayed relevant in the fitness industry for 20 years.

The plant-based food industry has spiked in popularity, but Dr. Gabrielle Lyon dishes on the misconceptions and myths about the industry. She also discusses the longevity of being on a plant-based diet, and why it becomes more difficult to add or sustain muscle mass without meat.

Powerlifting legend C.T. Fletcher dishes on overcoming adversity, transitions to a plant-based diet, and being the inaugural host on Spartan Race’s “Don’t Break” series. He also gives his unfiltered thoughts on the current Black Lives Matter movement

Jen Widerstrom dishes on why goals and expectations are necessary, but can hamper your training and overall happiness. She also talks about how she’s gotten over her frustration of not being on “The Biggest Loser.”

UFC sensation Sean O'Malley's 2-year hiatus from the UFC is over, and he's back to take on Eddie Wineland. The once rising star talks drug testing, his upcoming fight, COVID-19, and more.

Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Rebecca Kennedy gives out a few tips and tricks on how to raise your child. She also touches on how parenting has been altered due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Men's health expert Ali Gilbert dives into the various hormonal effects of being under quarantine. She discusses how a unusual sleeping pattern and increasing stress levels due to the pandemic can tank testosterone levels.

If your end goal is to move better and reduce your daily aches, massage therapist Joe Yoon can probably help you out. In this episode, he dishes on how to reduce muscle aches, static stretching, and how he trains top-tier athletes.

Dr. Gary Goldenberg breaks down how factors like alcohol, weed, and food can affect your chances of getting, and fighting COVID-19. He also dishes on who is most vulnerable, and how he sees the situation playing out over the next few months.

"Gotham" actor Drew Powell breaks down the nuances of how your physique can direct your career, training during quarantine, and recalls an embarrassing audition for "Malcolm in the Middle."

Celebrity trainer and Drive 495 gym owner Don Saladino evaluates the pros and cons of gyms reopening with M&F chief content officer Zack Zeigler. They also speculate on what gym life could look like post-pandemic.

WWE superstar Roman Reigns was trending toward the NFL when he was diagnosed with leukemia during rookie camp. He since has become one of the biggest WWE superstars on the planet.

Spartan founder Joe De Sena is a walking representation of his brand, and sometimes that includes running over 300 miles. De Sena also discusses the Spartan brand was forced to quickly pivot due to the coronavirus pandemic.

WWE superstar and star of the new Netflix film "The Main Event," dishes on a WWE under quarantine, dropping the Jamaican accent, and his first opportunity to act.

Pro bodybuilder Sadik Hadzovic gives his thoughts on changing bodybuilding divisions, dealing with online haters, and the dedication it requires to compete at Mr. Olympia.

The 4X Mr. Olympia champ dives into his work ethic, business acumen, and the fitness knowledge that made him a bodybuilding icon. He also reveals how Ronnie Coleman was his measuring stick.

WrestleMania 36 performer Charlotte Flair thinks performing in an empty arena was strange, but highlighted the better performers. She also discusses how she's used the hate of being Ric Flair's daughter to her advantage.

Anthony Renna, founder of ContinueFit.com explains how trainers and coaches must adjust to the digital age to survive. Renna and celebrity trainer Don Saladino discuss how fitness professionals should diversity for success in the fitness industry.

The coronavirus pandemic continues to be a national crisis, but Dr. John Brownstein separates the facts from the fiction of COVID-19. Dr. Brownstein explains how you can train during social distancing, and how to stay healthy over the next few months.

Wrestlemania 36 is here and John Morrison, the high-flying WWE Superstar explains the impact the coronavirus quarantine has had on WWE's biggest event. He also dishes on how he's been staying fit in the meantime.

The coronavirus may have put “The Falcon & Winter Soldier,” on hold, but he’s been staying positive and active in the meantime Watch Sebastian Stan give his thoughts on being quarantined, working out at home, and more.

The coronavirus pandemic has forced many people to stay at home, but there are plenty of methods to cope with the situation. Celebrity trainer Don Saladino and M&F chief content officer Zack discuss at-home workouts, and how the virus is impacting sports, and our mini-doc on Bev Francis Powerhouse Gym.

Zachary Levi may have built a superhero body for the box office hit "Shazam," but his stardom didn't come easy. Levi talks about how he trained for "Shazam," being turned down for a "Guardians of the Galaxy" role, and battling anxiety.

Super Bowl Champ Greg Jennings is now adding bodybuilding to his list of athletic feats. The former NFL star talks about the intricacies of the training and meal prep required to be a bodybuilder.

Strauss Zelnick may be the CEO of Take-Two Interactive however, he doesn’t let that stop him from being in excellent shape at his age. Zelnick credits steady progress, and The Program, which is his exclusive training club for his excellent shape.

Although Erin Oprea is a celebrity trainer, she teaches a simple, yet effective path to a healthier lifestyle. On this episode, she discusses how to begin a workout program, the benefits of group training, and being a Marine vet.

Co-founder of the Hiitburn workout program Kelsey Heenan breaks down how she went from having an eating disorder to becoming a fitness influencer. She also talks about her diet plan, meal prep, and cheat meals.

Mehcad Brooks, star of the new Netflix film “A Fall From Grace,” explains his decision to not play basketball, how he deals with jealousy, and how his life has changed since nearly dying from a parasite.

Misinformation about steroids in the bodybuilding community has forever been circulated, but on this episode of Reps, George Peterson’s trainer Justin Miller separates fact from fiction. He also talks about his favorite era of bodybuilders, the 2019 Mr. Olympia, the difference in training between natural and enhanced bodybuilders.

Decker Davis has been the trainer for NFL superstar Russell Wilson’s for three years, and the bond has helped produce excellent results. Davis talks about how he and Wilson linked, the variety of ways they train together, and Wilson’s diet.

Sue Falsone made history by becoming the first female Head Athletic Trainer in American pro sports. The former Los Angeles Dodgers trainer talks about the pros and cons of breaking glass ceilings, changes in recovery methods, and how sleep is currently viewed in the fitness industry.

Certified nutritionist and certified strength and conditioning specialist Robert Yang explains how to keep your digestive system healthy, and how your diet may be hurting your gut.

MMA legend and Professional Fighters League commentator Randy Couture talks about working out through a heart attack, his fight career, and playing alongside a host action-movie icons.

IFBB Pro League athlete Jason Poston talks about the positive and not-so-positive experiences he’s had with sponsors during his career.

The WWE Hall of Famer discusses how her training has evolved from her teenages day through her wrestling career to today.

Powerlifter Jordan Shallow isn’t your typical brainless personal trainer, but a fitness educator, and he’s on a mission to update the antiquated fitness misinformation that has been passed around for decades.

New York’s biggest charity fitness festival, Strong New York, is officially back, and will feature a blend of industry leaders holding group fitness classes, keynote speeches, workshops, and more. Event curator Kenny Santucci discusses why he chose speakers like Stefi Cohen, Christmas Abbott, Don Saladino, plus what attendees can expect from this year’s event. A portion of the proceeds from the Dec. 15 event will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Nutritionist and strength and conditioning coach Benjamin House explains how you can at times incorporate certain “taboo” foods like chips and candy alongside a consistent and balanced diet.

Brooke Ence’s spinal fusion surgery in 2017 turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it’s afforded the CrossFit athlete and actress the time to focus on acting, her supplement line, online training company, and more.

Bounty Tank is built like a powerhouse bodybuilder, but yet that still doesn’t stop criminal defendants from attempting to fight him, and sometimes shooting at him. He shares how he stays in shape for his line of work.

The co-founder of Precision Nutrition John Berardi explains in simple terms what diet will work best for you.

Boxer and powerlifter Mike Rashid tells Reps the reasons for switching to meatless diet plus training heavy after age 40.

Bodybuilder Jon De La Rosa explains how he advises younger athletes to take their time when it comes to adding quality size to their frame.

Celebrity trainer and coach Autumn Calabrese tells M&F Reps explains her success in the fitness industry and tells the story of why she didn’t make a recent magazine cover.

Powerlifter Julius Maddox explains how his life turned from drug abuse and drug trafficking to holding the world record in the bench press.

The bodybuilder, powerlifter and Vertical Diet guru explains the rationale behind his nutrition plan and why people often fail at sticking to a diet.

Four-time Arnold Classic Fitness champion Candice Carter still admits to after 12 years of competing, that finding balance between fit and fun when not competing continues to be a struggle.

The wrestling legend tells Reps how despite the numerous physical injuries he’s suffered, a “decent amount of money” is what keeps him wrestling at age 48.

The 24-year-old, 165-pound powerlifter explains how he progressed from barely lifting the bar to recently bench-pressing 380 pounds in competition.

Strength & Conditioning Specialist Jason Glass explains why he refuses to prescribe the two popular strength moves to his clients and shares the variations he instead chooses for them.

Although Mandy Rose may be a WWE superstar today, her first love was actually fitness. Rose breaks down her transition from being the 2014 WBFF Bikini World Champ to the WWE with chief content officer Zack Zeigler and celebrity trainer Don Saladino.

Fitness industry leader James Grage tells celebrity trainer Don Saladino and executive editor Zack Zeigler how he made the transition to drop weight training and work out with resistance bands.

Dermatologist Dr. Gary Goldenberg tells celebrity trainer Don Saladino and executive editor Zack Zeigler some simple tips for maintaining optimal skin care.

Bodybuilding and fitness icon Mike O’Hearn tells celebrity trainer Don Saladino and executive editor Zack Zeigler about what kind of passion and sacrifices it takes to stay at an elite level in any profession.

Trifecta CEO Greg Connolly details the benefits of meal delivery, and where Trifecta’s food is sourced from.

On this week’s Reps, powerlifter and strength coach Dr. Jordan Shallow, D.C., tells celebrity trainer Don Saladino and executive editor Zack Zeigler his most terrifying travel experience, his thoughts on CBD, and who he despises most in the industry.

Open bodybuilding competitor Steve Kuclo talked about his mindset and readiness heading into the 2019 Mr. Olympia. Kuclo also discussed the cheat meal he was planning on devouring after the O.

Legendary New York City gym owner David Barton tells celebrity trainer Don Saladino and M&F executive editor Zack Zeigler how he got into the fitness business and how the industry has changed since then.

Legendary strength athlete C.T. Fletcher talks with celebrity trainer Don Saladino and M&F executive editor Zack Zeigler about how he trains one year after heart-transplant surgery, and the strength lessons he’s passed down to his sons.

Find out how Brett Bartholomew went from being put in a cardiac arrest ward as a teen, to becoming a top tier performance coach. Bartholomew tells celebrity trainer Don Saladino and M&F executive  editor Zack Zeigler how he overcame his near-death experience, and how he preps the athletes he trains.

The head of athletic performance and science for the Irish Rugby Football Union talks with Reps hosts Don Saladino and Zack Zeigler about his days at EXOS, the use of wearable technology, and measuring performance of the Irish rugby players.

NormaTec’s recovery system has been trending among top-tier athletes across multiple sports and the CEO discusses exactly why. In this episode M&F executive editor Zack Zeigler and celebrity trainer Don Saladino break down the benefits of compression gear, cold-tub recovery, and managing blood flow to perform optimally.

Two-time World Series champion Aubrey Huff tells Muscle & Fitness about his alcohol and adderall abuse, steroid use, and how he now feels in better shape since retiring from baseball.

Mack Beggs tells Muscle & Fitness about the controversy of being a two-time Texas state high school wrestling champ in the women's division, and the process of transitioning. Mack also spoke on social media activism, inspiring others, fitness, and his ESPN 30 for 30 doc short, "Mack Wrestles."

Former New York Knicks forward Lance Thomas talks fitness and fishing as the free agent looks to land on an NBA roster.

This week on the Muscle and Fitness podcast, Celebrity trainer Don Saladino and M&F executive editor Zack Zeigler speak with sleep expert Brandon Marcello about factors affecting sleep, tips for improving sleep, and the truth about wearable technology.

Former powerlifter and professional sports consultant J.L. Holdsworth dives into the benefits of Reflexive Performance Reset (RPR), his program is designed to refresh your body’s harmful compensation patterns. Holdsworth also discusses the infinite athletic benefits of allowing your child to play multiple sports, and overcoming anger issues.

Listen to Dr. Natalie Azar put an end to some of the common fitness related hearsay by giving you the insider info from a practicing professional. The NBC News contributor explains the study of rheumatology, how millennials are effecting healthcare, and more.

Every high level athlete wants to camp out in the gym, but sports consultant Dereck Hansen discusses how sometimes less is more. The crew also debates the best athletes of all time, what the NFL Combine is actually testing, and more.

Aspiring bodybuilder and strength and conditioning coach, Ethan Grossman breaks down the required preparation to be a bodybuilder. Don Saladino and Zack Zeigler pick his brain about everything from his training program to his daily macros and calories needs.