IRONFORGE BLOG

Expert insights on training, nutrition, supplements, and recovery to help you achieve your bodybuilding goals

The Ultimate Guide to Building Muscle Mass: Science-Backed Strategies for Maximum Growth
Training
March 15, 20248 min read

The Ultimate Guide to Building Muscle Mass: Science-Backed Strategies for Maximum Growth

Discover the proven methods and scientific principles behind effective muscle building. Learn about progressive overload, optimal training volume, and recovery strategies that will transform your physique.

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Marcus Steel
Pre-Workout Nutrition: What to Eat Before Training for Maximum Performance and Energy
Nutrition
March 12, 20246 min read

Pre-Workout Nutrition: What to Eat Before Training for Maximum Performance and Energy

Optimize your workout performance with the right pre-workout nutrition. Learn about timing, macronutrient ratios, and the best foods to fuel your training sessions for maximum energy and muscle growth.

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Sarah Johnson
Understanding Protein Supplements: Whey, Casein, and Plant-Based Options Compared
Supplements
March 10, 20247 min read

Understanding Protein Supplements: Whey, Casein, and Plant-Based Options Compared

Navigate the world of protein supplements with confidence. Compare whey, casein, and plant-based proteins to find the best option for your goals, dietary preferences, and training schedule.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Recovery Strategies: How to Maximize Muscle Growth Between Workouts
Recovery
March 8, 20249 min read

Recovery Strategies: How to Maximize Muscle Growth Between Workouts

Learn the essential recovery techniques that separate good results from great results. Discover how sleep, nutrition, and active recovery can accelerate your muscle growth and performance.

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Marcus Steel
The Science of Progressive Overload: How to Continuously Build Strength and Size
Training
March 5, 202410 min read

The Science of Progressive Overload: How to Continuously Build Strength and Size

Master the fundamental principle of muscle growth. Learn how to properly implement progressive overload in your training program to ensure continuous gains in strength and muscle mass.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Cutting vs Bulking: The Complete Guide to Body Composition Phases
Nutrition
March 3, 202411 min read

Cutting vs Bulking: The Complete Guide to Body Composition Phases

Understand the strategic approach to building muscle and losing fat. Learn when to bulk, when to cut, and how to transition between phases for optimal body composition results.

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Sarah Johnson
Creatine Monohydrate: The Most Researched Supplement for Muscle and Strength
Supplements
February 28, 20248 min read

Creatine Monohydrate: The Most Researched Supplement for Muscle and Strength

Explore the science behind creatine supplementation. Learn about dosing protocols, benefits, safety, and why creatine monohydrate remains the gold standard for muscle building supplements.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Compound vs Isolation Exercises: Building an Effective Training Program
Training
February 25, 20247 min read

Compound vs Isolation Exercises: Building an Effective Training Program

Learn how to balance compound and isolation exercises for maximum muscle development. Discover which exercises to prioritize and how to structure your workouts for optimal results.

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Marcus Steel
Meal Prep for Bodybuilders: Planning and Preparing a Week of Muscle-Building Meals
Nutrition
February 22, 202412 min read

Meal Prep for Bodybuilders: Planning and Preparing a Week of Muscle-Building Meals

Master the art of meal preparation for consistent nutrition. Get practical tips, recipes, and strategies for preparing a week of bodybuilding meals that support your muscle-building goals.

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Sarah Johnson
Sleep and Muscle Growth: Why Recovery Starts in the Bedroom
Recovery
February 20, 20249 min read

Sleep and Muscle Growth: Why Recovery Starts in the Bedroom

Discover the critical relationship between sleep quality and muscle development. Learn how to optimize your sleep for maximum recovery, hormone production, and muscle growth.

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Dr. James Mitchell
BCAA Supplements: Do You Really Need Them for Muscle Growth?
Supplements
February 18, 20246 min read

BCAA Supplements: Do You Really Need Them for Muscle Growth?

Examine the evidence behind branched-chain amino acid supplementation. Learn when BCAAs can be beneficial and when they might be unnecessary for your training goals.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Training Frequency: How Often Should You Train Each Muscle Group?
Training
February 15, 20248 min read

Training Frequency: How Often Should You Train Each Muscle Group?

Optimize your training split for maximum muscle growth. Discover the ideal training frequency for different muscle groups based on your experience level and recovery capacity.

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Coach Ryan Davis
High-Intensity Interval Training: Maximizing Fat Loss While Preserving Muscle
Training
February 12, 20249 min read

High-Intensity Interval Training: Maximizing Fat Loss While Preserving Muscle

Discover how HIIT can accelerate fat loss without sacrificing hard-earned muscle. Learn optimal protocols, timing, and how to integrate HIIT into your training program.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Post-Workout Nutrition: The Anabolic Window and Optimal Recovery Meals
Nutrition
February 10, 20247 min read

Post-Workout Nutrition: The Anabolic Window and Optimal Recovery Meals

Learn the truth about post-workout nutrition timing and what to eat after training for maximum muscle recovery and growth.

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Sarah Johnson
Testosterone Optimization: Natural Ways to Boost Your Anabolic Hormones
Health
February 8, 202410 min read

Testosterone Optimization: Natural Ways to Boost Your Anabolic Hormones

Explore evidence-based strategies for naturally optimizing testosterone levels through nutrition, training, sleep, and lifestyle modifications.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Deload Weeks: Why Taking It Easy Can Accelerate Your Progress
Recovery
February 5, 20246 min read

Deload Weeks: Why Taking It Easy Can Accelerate Your Progress

Understand the importance of strategic deload weeks and how planned recovery periods can prevent burnout and enhance long-term gains.

M
Marcus Steel
Carb Cycling for Body Recomposition: Lose Fat and Build Muscle Simultaneously
Nutrition
February 3, 202411 min read

Carb Cycling for Body Recomposition: Lose Fat and Build Muscle Simultaneously

Master the art of carb cycling to optimize body composition. Learn how to strategically manipulate carbohydrate intake for simultaneous fat loss and muscle gain.

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Sarah Johnson
Beta-Alanine: The Science Behind the Tingles and Performance Benefits
Supplements
January 30, 20248 min read

Beta-Alanine: The Science Behind the Tingles and Performance Benefits

Dive deep into beta-alanine supplementation, understanding how it works, optimal dosing, and why it causes that characteristic tingling sensation.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Mobility Training: Essential Stretches and Drills for Injury Prevention
Training
January 28, 20249 min read

Mobility Training: Essential Stretches and Drills for Injury Prevention

Improve your range of motion and prevent injuries with targeted mobility work. Learn essential stretches and drills for every major muscle group.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Intermittent Fasting for Bodybuilders: Does It Work for Muscle Building?
Nutrition
January 25, 202410 min read

Intermittent Fasting for Bodybuilders: Does It Work for Muscle Building?

Examine the science of intermittent fasting in the context of muscle building. Learn if time-restricted eating can support your bodybuilding goals.

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Sarah Johnson
Grip Strength Training: Building Crushing Hand and Forearm Power
Training
January 22, 20247 min read

Grip Strength Training: Building Crushing Hand and Forearm Power

Develop impressive grip strength and forearm size with specialized training techniques. Learn exercises and protocols for maximum grip development.

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Marcus Steel
Hydration for Performance: How Much Water Do You Really Need?
Health
January 20, 20246 min read

Hydration for Performance: How Much Water Do You Really Need?

Optimize your hydration strategy for peak performance. Learn about water intake, electrolyte balance, and hydration timing around workouts.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Citrulline Malate: The Pump Supplement That Actually Works
Supplements
January 18, 20248 min read

Citrulline Malate: The Pump Supplement That Actually Works

Discover why citrulline malate is one of the most effective pump supplements. Learn about dosing, timing, and the science behind enhanced blood flow.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Training to Failure: When to Push Hard and When to Hold Back
Training
January 15, 20249 min read

Training to Failure: When to Push Hard and When to Hold Back

Learn the strategic use of training to failure. Understand when pushing to complete muscular failure benefits growth and when it hinders progress.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Micronutrients for Muscle: The Vitamins and Minerals You Cannot Ignore
Nutrition
January 12, 202410 min read

Micronutrients for Muscle: The Vitamins and Minerals You Cannot Ignore

Explore the critical role of micronutrients in muscle building and performance. Learn which vitamins and minerals are essential for optimal gains.

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Sarah Johnson
Foam Rolling and Self-Myofascial Release: Recovery Techniques That Work
Recovery
January 10, 20247 min read

Foam Rolling and Self-Myofascial Release: Recovery Techniques That Work

Master foam rolling techniques for improved recovery and mobility. Learn how to effectively use self-myofascial release tools for better performance.

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Marcus Steel
Caffeine Timing and Tolerance: Maximizing Pre-Workout Energy
Supplements
January 8, 20248 min read

Caffeine Timing and Tolerance: Maximizing Pre-Workout Energy

Optimize your caffeine intake for peak workout performance. Learn about timing, dosing, tolerance management, and cycling strategies.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Periodization: Planning Your Training for Year-Round Progress
Training
January 5, 202411 min read

Periodization: Planning Your Training for Year-Round Progress

Learn how to structure your training in phases for continuous progress. Understand linear, undulating, and block periodization models.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Sodium and Performance: Why Salt Matters for Your Workouts
Nutrition
January 3, 20246 min read

Sodium and Performance: Why Salt Matters for Your Workouts

Discover the often-overlooked role of sodium in athletic performance. Learn optimal sodium intake for training, pumps, and muscle function.

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Sarah Johnson
Mind-Muscle Connection: Training Your Brain to Build More Muscle
Training
December 30, 20238 min read

Mind-Muscle Connection: Training Your Brain to Build More Muscle

Enhance muscle activation through improved mind-muscle connection. Learn techniques to maximize muscle fiber recruitment during training.

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Marcus Steel
Ashwagandha for Athletes: Stress Reduction and Performance Enhancement
Supplements
December 28, 20239 min read

Ashwagandha for Athletes: Stress Reduction and Performance Enhancement

Explore the benefits of ashwagandha supplementation for stress management, recovery, and athletic performance enhancement.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Injury Prevention: Essential Warm-Up Routines for Heavy Lifting
Training
December 25, 202310 min read

Injury Prevention: Essential Warm-Up Routines for Heavy Lifting

Protect yourself from injury with proper warm-up protocols. Learn dynamic stretches, activation drills, and progressive loading strategies.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Flexible Dieting: How to Fit Your Favorite Foods Into Your Macros
Nutrition
December 22, 20239 min read

Flexible Dieting: How to Fit Your Favorite Foods Into Your Macros

Learn the principles of flexible dieting and IIFYM. Discover how to enjoy your favorite foods while still achieving your physique goals.

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Sarah Johnson
Magnesium: The Underrated Mineral for Sleep and Recovery
Supplements
December 20, 20237 min read

Magnesium: The Underrated Mineral for Sleep and Recovery

Discover why magnesium is crucial for muscle recovery, sleep quality, and overall performance. Learn about different forms and optimal dosing.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Drop Sets and Intensity Techniques: Advanced Methods for Muscle Growth
Training
December 18, 202310 min read

Drop Sets and Intensity Techniques: Advanced Methods for Muscle Growth

Take your training to the next level with advanced intensity techniques. Learn how to properly implement drop sets, rest-pause, and supersets.

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Marcus Steel
Gut Health for Athletes: Probiotics, Digestion, and Nutrient Absorption
Health
December 15, 20238 min read

Gut Health for Athletes: Probiotics, Digestion, and Nutrient Absorption

Optimize your digestive health for better nutrient absorption and performance. Learn about probiotics, digestive enzymes, and gut-friendly nutrition.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Tempo Training: Using Time Under Tension for Maximum Muscle Growth
Training
December 12, 20239 min read

Tempo Training: Using Time Under Tension for Maximum Muscle Growth

Master tempo training to maximize time under tension. Learn how controlling rep speed can enhance muscle growth and strength development.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Cheat Meals vs Refeed Days: Strategic Approaches to Diet Breaks
Nutrition
December 10, 20238 min read

Cheat Meals vs Refeed Days: Strategic Approaches to Diet Breaks

Understand the difference between cheat meals and strategic refeeds. Learn how to use diet breaks to support long-term fat loss success.

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Sarah Johnson
Vitamin D3: The Sunshine Vitamin for Strength and Testosterone
Supplements
December 8, 20237 min read

Vitamin D3: The Sunshine Vitamin for Strength and Testosterone

Learn why vitamin D3 is essential for muscle function, bone health, and hormone production. Discover optimal dosing and testing strategies.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Unilateral Training: Building Balanced Strength and Preventing Imbalances
Training
December 5, 20239 min read

Unilateral Training: Building Balanced Strength and Preventing Imbalances

Discover the benefits of single-limb training for correcting imbalances and building functional strength. Learn essential unilateral exercises.

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Marcus Steel
Alcohol and Muscle Growth: How Drinking Affects Your Gains
Nutrition
December 3, 20238 min read

Alcohol and Muscle Growth: How Drinking Affects Your Gains

Understand the impact of alcohol on muscle protein synthesis, recovery, and performance. Learn strategies for minimizing negative effects.

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Sarah Johnson
Collagen Supplementation: Benefits for Joints, Skin, and Recovery
Supplements
December 1, 20238 min read

Collagen Supplementation: Benefits for Joints, Skin, and Recovery

Explore the science behind collagen supplementation. Learn how it supports joint health, skin quality, and connective tissue recovery.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Blood Flow Restriction Training: Low Load, High Gains
Training
November 28, 202310 min read

Blood Flow Restriction Training: Low Load, High Gains

Discover BFR training for building muscle with lighter weights. Learn proper protocols, safety considerations, and optimal implementation.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Meal Timing: Does When You Eat Really Matter for Muscle Growth?
Nutrition
November 25, 20239 min read

Meal Timing: Does When You Eat Really Matter for Muscle Growth?

Examine the science of nutrient timing. Learn what research says about meal frequency and timing for optimal muscle building results.

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Sarah Johnson
Zinc and Magnesium: The ZMA Stack for Better Sleep and Recovery
Supplements
November 22, 20237 min read

Zinc and Magnesium: The ZMA Stack for Better Sleep and Recovery

Learn about the synergistic effects of zinc and magnesium supplementation. Discover how ZMA can improve sleep quality and recovery.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Eccentric Training: The Power of Negative Reps for Strength and Size
Training
November 20, 20239 min read

Eccentric Training: The Power of Negative Reps for Strength and Size

Master eccentric training for enhanced muscle damage and growth. Learn how to safely implement negative reps into your program.

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Marcus Steel
Tracking Progress: Beyond the Scale - Measurements That Actually Matter
Health
November 18, 20238 min read

Tracking Progress: Beyond the Scale - Measurements That Actually Matter

Learn effective methods for tracking your fitness progress. Discover measurements and metrics that provide meaningful feedback beyond body weight.

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Sarah Johnson
L-Carnitine: Fat Burning Supplement or Overhyped Marketing?
Supplements
November 15, 20238 min read

L-Carnitine: Fat Burning Supplement or Overhyped Marketing?

Examine the evidence behind L-carnitine supplementation. Learn if it truly enhances fat burning and when it might be beneficial.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Cluster Sets: Advanced Loading Strategies for Strength Development
Training
November 12, 20239 min read

Cluster Sets: Advanced Loading Strategies for Strength Development

Learn how cluster sets can help you lift heavier weights and build more strength. Discover optimal rest intervals and programming strategies.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Nutrition for Recovery and Joint Health
Nutrition
November 10, 202310 min read

Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Nutrition for Recovery and Joint Health

Discover foods that fight inflammation and support recovery. Learn how to build an anti-inflammatory diet for better joint health and performance.

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Sarah Johnson
Rhodiola Rosea: The Adaptogen for Endurance and Mental Performance
Supplements
November 8, 20237 min read

Rhodiola Rosea: The Adaptogen for Endurance and Mental Performance

Explore rhodiola rosea supplementation for enhanced endurance, reduced fatigue, and improved mental performance during intense training.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Pause Reps: Building Explosive Power and Breaking Through Plateaus
Training
November 5, 20238 min read

Pause Reps: Building Explosive Power and Breaking Through Plateaus

Learn how pause reps can eliminate momentum, build explosive power, and help you break through strength plateaus.

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Marcus Steel
Glycogen Supercompensation: Carb Loading for Peak Performance
Nutrition
November 3, 20239 min read

Glycogen Supercompensation: Carb Loading for Peak Performance

Master carb loading strategies for enhanced performance. Learn how to maximize glycogen storage for competition or peak training days.

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Sarah Johnson
Electrolytes: Beyond Sodium - Potassium, Magnesium, and Performance
Supplements
November 1, 20238 min read

Electrolytes: Beyond Sodium - Potassium, Magnesium, and Performance

Understand the complete electrolyte picture. Learn how sodium, potassium, and magnesium work together for optimal hydration and performance.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Wave Loading: Undulating Intensity for Continuous Strength Gains
Training
October 28, 202310 min read

Wave Loading: Undulating Intensity for Continuous Strength Gains

Discover wave loading protocols for breaking through strength plateaus. Learn how to manipulate intensity within a single training session.

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Coach Ryan Davis
Stress and Cortisol: How to Manage Stress for Better Muscle Growth
Health
October 25, 20239 min read

Stress and Cortisol: How to Manage Stress for Better Muscle Growth

Learn how chronic stress and elevated cortisol sabotage your gains. Discover practical strategies for stress management and cortisol control.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Intra-Workout Nutrition: What to Consume During Long Training Sessions
Nutrition
October 22, 20237 min read

Intra-Workout Nutrition: What to Consume During Long Training Sessions

Optimize performance during extended workouts with proper intra-workout nutrition. Learn what to consume for sustained energy and recovery.

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Sarah Johnson
Nitric Oxide Boosters: The Science Behind the Pump
Supplements
October 20, 20238 min read

Nitric Oxide Boosters: The Science Behind the Pump

Understand how nitric oxide supplements enhance blood flow and muscle pumps. Learn about effective NO boosters and optimal dosing.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Antagonist Supersets: Efficient Training for Maximum Muscle Growth
Training
October 18, 20239 min read

Antagonist Supersets: Efficient Training for Maximum Muscle Growth

Learn how to pair opposing muscle groups for efficient, effective training. Discover the benefits of antagonist supersets for muscle growth.

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Marcus Steel
Ketogenic Diet for Athletes: Can You Build Muscle on Keto?
Nutrition
October 15, 202311 min read

Ketogenic Diet for Athletes: Can You Build Muscle on Keto?

Examine the ketogenic diet in the context of muscle building. Learn if low-carb, high-fat eating can support your bodybuilding goals.

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Sarah Johnson
Turkesterone: The New Natural Anabolic or Just Hype?
Supplements
October 12, 20238 min read

Turkesterone: The New Natural Anabolic or Just Hype?

Investigate turkesterone supplementation claims. Learn what the science says about this trending natural anabolic compound.

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Dr. James Mitchell
Breathing Techniques for Heavy Lifting: The Valsalva Maneuver Explained
Training
October 10, 20237 min read

Breathing Techniques for Heavy Lifting: The Valsalva Maneuver Explained

Master proper breathing techniques for maximal lifts. Learn the Valsalva maneuver and when to use different breathing strategies.

C
Coach Ryan Davis

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