Strength Changes Everything

The Exercise Coach

Boost

Boost

The Exercise Coach presents: The Strength Changes Everything Podcast. Learn from Exercise Coach Co-Founder Brian Cygan, Franchisee Amy Hudson, and Dr. James Fisher, Chief Science Officer of The Exercise Coach about how to enjoy a strong, healthy lifestyle. The Exercise Coach’s unique two 20-minute workouts a week is how thousands across the United States get and stay in great shape. This podcast gives you the facts, from the experts, in easy-to-understand lessons so you can take control of your life.

How to Strength Train Smarter by Controlling Your Range of Motion

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher discuss the importance of range of motion in strength training and how it impacts performance, injury prevention, and long-term joint health. They cover why strength varies throughout a movement, the dangers of locking out your joints, and the myths about extreme ranges of motion. Tune in to hear expert insights on training smarter, maximizing muscle engagement, and protecting your body for the long run. Dr. Fisher starts by defining range of motion and why it’s

Apr 15, • 27:37

The Truth About Type I and Type II Muscle Fibers: Strength Training Essentials

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the difference between type one and type two muscle fibers—why they matter, how they function, and how to train them effectively. They discuss why neglecting type two fibers can lead to rapid muscle loss and how simple strength exercises can make a huge difference in keeping you strong, mobile, and functional for life. Join us to hear ways a sedentary lifestyle weakens type two muscle fibers and how small changes in your workouts can have a huge impact on

Apr 8, • 22:39

Why Most People Fail in the Gym (And How Supervision With a Personal Trainer Can Help)

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher dive deep into the science of supervised workouts, sharing research on the benefits of guided workouts. They explore the key differences between supervised and unsupervised training, why many people struggle to train effectively on their own, and how coaching impacts technique, effort, safety, and motivation. Tune in to hear why men and women respond differently to coaching, ways technology is changing the way we work out, and why a trainer might be the secret wea

Apr 1, • 27:57

The Truth About Exercise Plateaus and How to Move Forward

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher tackle one of the biggest frustrations in fitness—plateaus. They break down why plateaus happen, the role of recovery, nutrition, and mindset, and how to adjust your training to keep moving forward. Tune in to hear why slow progress is better than doing nothing at all, the importance of balancing effort with rest, and practical strategies to help you train smarter and stay consistent even if you’re not seeing any progress. Amy and Dr. Fisher start by exploring fa

Mar 25, • 46:32

Strength Training for Women: Hormones Aren’t Your Enemy with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher talk with Lauren Colenso-Semple about the science of female muscle physiology and how hormonal fluctuations impact strength training. They explore the misconceptions around women’s hormones, the underrepresentation of women in research, and whether training recommendations should differ between men and women. Lauren breaks down the truth about menstrual cycles, menopause, and testosterone, explaining why cycle-based training plans are misleading and how women can

Mar 18, • 38:27

Global Consensus: The Science-Backed Benefits of Resistance Training for Healthy Aging

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher break down the latest research on exercise and longevity, focusing on the newly published Global Consensus on Optimal Exercise Recommendations for Enhancing Healthy Longevity in Older Adults. They explore why resistance training is essential for healthy aging, preserving muscle mass, bone density, and overall function. Tune in to hear about the role of strength training in disease prevention, how to adapt your exercise habits as you age, and how professionals like

Mar 11, • 35:10

Q&A: GLP-1 for Weight Loss: The Science, Side Effects & How to Protect Your Muscles

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy for weight loss. They discuss how these drugs work, why muscle mass, not just body weight, is the true marker of health, and why many people who lose weight too quickly end up weaker, not healthier. Tune in to hear the long-term risks of GLP-1 use and how strength training can help you maximize the benefits of GLP-1 medications. Dr. Fisher starts by explaining what GLP-1s are and how they work. Origina

Mar 4, • 18:17

The 6 Essential Elements of an Effective Strength Training Program with Matt Brzycki

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher sit down with Matt Brzycki, a strength and health fitness expert with more than 41 years of experience as an administrator, instructor, and a coach. They discuss how to get stronger, train smarter, and see real results—without wasting time or risking injury. Tune in to hear the key principles of an effective workout, why full-body training accelerates progress, and why proper technique is the real secret to long-term success. Matt starts by sharing his journey to

Feb 25, • 33:34

Strength Training: The Untold Benefits of Exercise for the Brain

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the powerful connection between strength training and brain health. They discuss how resistance training enhances cognitive function, the surprising link between resistance training and Alzheimer’s, and how lifting weights can improve insulin sensitivity. Tune in to hear how strength training benefits not just adults but also children and why nearly 15% of deaths worldwide are linked to poor mental health--and how resistance training can help. What is bra

Feb 18, • 19:15

The 30-Day Metabolic Comeback Challenge: A Smarter Way to Achieve a Metabolic Reset with Gerianne Cygan

Amy Hudson sits down with Gerianne Cygan, the Co-Founder of the Exercise Coach, to discuss what it takes to achieve a Metabolic Comeback. They discuss why most diets fail, how yo-yo dieting leads to more fat gain over time, and why strength training is essential for sustainable fat loss. Tune in to hear how you can reset your metabolism, boost energy, and break free from the diet cycle for good. Amy starts by explaining why most diets fail and why 95% of people regain all their weight within a

Feb 11, • 22:18

Why Strength Training Works for Everyone — No Exceptions

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher break down three important research papers on the connection between strength, muscle mass, and longevity. They cover the benefits of exercising regularly and how being strong—regardless of weight—greatly reduces the risk of all-cause mortality. Tune in to hear valuable insights on how strength training improves healthspan, not just lifespan, and actionable advice on prioritizing strength for long-term vitality. Dr. Fisher starts by unpacking the “Fat But Fit” Pa

Feb 4, • 30:08

Can You Reverse Osteoporosis? Strength Training for Bone Mineral Density

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher dive into the critical connection between strength training and bone health, explaining how building muscle can improve bone density and combat age-related bone loss. They explain the role of hormones like testosterone and estrogen in bone health and why starting resistance training early makes such a big difference. Even if you’ve already experienced bone loss or osteoporosis, it’s not too late—simple, controlled exercises can help reverse the effects. Amy and D

Jan 28, • 17:03

Q&A: How Strength Training Before and After Injury Can Transform Your Healing Journey

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore how strength training is more than just a workout—it's a lifelong investment in your health, mobility, and resilience. You’ll learn why proactive strength training can act as your body’s insurance policy, how to recover faster after an injury, and the surprising science behind strength training through pregnancy. Amy and Dr. Fisher start by explaining why strength training is like an investment for your future health: Build strength reserves now to mainta

Jan 21, • 13:18

How to Lose Fat Without Muscle Loss: Science-Backed Solutions with Dr. Wayne Westcott

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher chat with Dr. Wayne Westcott, an accomplished international authority in health, fitness and aging. He’s the author of over 25 fitness books and the go-to expert and deep source of knowledge for maintaining strength at any age. They discuss how strength training not only combats muscle and bone loss but also helps prevent obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic conditions. Tune in to hear how you can age gracefully and improve your overall health by focusing o

Jan 14, • 42:28

How to Set Goals for the New Year and Crush 2025 Through Healthy Habits

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher explore the science, strategies, and mindset shifts needed to set meaningful goals and build sustainable habits. From understanding what health truly means to leveraging neuroplasticity and dopamine to stay motivated, they share actionable insights that can help you take charge of your well-being and make the upcoming year your healthiest yet. Amy and Dr. Fisher start by exploring what health truly means and why it’s essential to consider multiple areas of well-b

Jan 7, • 28:24

How Resistance Training Exercises for Seniors Can Boost Functional Capacity

Amy Hudson and Dr. James Fisher dive into the best resistance training exercises for seniors, offering insights into how these exercises improve strength, mobility, and independence. You’ll learn why resistance training is essential for healthy aging, how to tailor exercises to individual needs, and practical tips to start or improve your fitness journey. This episode is perfect for anyone ready to embrace a stronger, healthier future! Amy and Dr. Fisher start by explaining why strength trainin

Dec 31, 2024 • 29:08

All Your Questions About Fitness, Health, and Strength Training Answered

Amy Hudson, Brian Cygan, and Dr. James Fisher answer all your burning questions about health, fitness, and strength training. They cover the best way to warm-up before strength training, eating before or after a workout, and why you should prioritize strength training over cardiovascular exercises. Amy, Brian, and James discuss how becoming stronger can improve all aspects of your life. Question 1 - To warm-up or not to warm-up? Dr. Fisher explains that there is no evidence to support any need

Dec 24, 2024 • 41:04

NEW SEASON! The Secret to Feeling Decades Younger; Welcoming a New Co-host

Welcome to Season 2 of the Strength Changes Everything! In this kickoff pisode, Amy Hudson, Brian Cygan, and Dr. James Fisher dive into the science of strength training and how it can help optimize your health, wellness, and longevity. Expect to hear the latest science, practical tips, and inspiring stories to help you build strength, optimize health, and redefine what’s possible at any age. Amy, Brian, and James start the conversation by discussing the relaunch of Strength Changes Everything.

Dec 17, 2024 • 40:34

How Fitness Might Help You Live Longer

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about myths involving fitness...   Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why a proper strength training program is the best way to maintain fitness as we age.  There is a ton of information regarding health and fitness out t

Dec 11, 2024 • 17:57

The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about dose-response and what it means for your fitness...   Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you should really be paying attention to, and how it can guide you to easier fitness gains in a shorter amount of time. More exercise is not necessari

Dec 4, 2024 • 11:33

Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how strength training should complement dieting for weight loss...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recipe for long term disaster for your body.  There is a direct connection between your body’s muscle mass and its metabolic effectiveness, the ability

Nov 27, 2024 • 8:58

The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about effective exercise for your lower back and what can surprisingly make lower back pain worse...   In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower back muscles. Find out how some people can experience significant lower back strength gain in as little as ten weeks with only 15 total minutes of m

Nov 20, 2024 • 21:51

The Causes of Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about solving the problems causing lower back pain...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatments only deal with the symptoms and the pain instead of solving the problem, which often leads to even worse issues down the road. Fisher is an acade

Nov 13, 2024 • 19:29

Muscle Burn Is Your Friend

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the importance of muscle burn...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, you won’t get the fitness results you’re looking for. The intensity of an exercise is crucial to achieving the fitness results you want, and the fee

Nov 6, 2024 • 16:10

How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about life-changing advice and details about pre-diabetes...   Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, this information could change your life. Approximately 1 in 3 Americans are pre-diabetic, whic

Oct 30, 2024 • 17:02

The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the Exercise Coach's strong business model...   Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a great franchise to open, and why the community of franchisees that support one another is the secret ingredient to franchise success. Jesse is the

Oct 23, 2024 • 26:16

Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about misconceptions about machines and if free weights or machines are better...   Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in the timeframe they want, and why free weights can lead to reduced strength gains and a higher risk of injury. Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find

Oct 16, 2024 • 16:03

What Makes Exerbotics So Effective?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how you can use more effort in less time...   Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overload is and how to optimize your exercise so you can use more effort in less time, and see greater results. Eccentric training is well understood by

Oct 9, 2024 • 16:47

The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science and principles behind strength training...   Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workout session at the Exercise Coach. Over the past few months, Brian has been working on the Strength Changes Everything Scientific Support Paper. It h

Oct 2, 2024 • 12:28

How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the benefits of strength training in a fun manner...   In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something as important to your long-term health and performance as strength training, the ensuing list is ridiculously long and comprehensive. With the Nati

Sep 25, 2024 • 17:53

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 2

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about what is accepted versus what is truth...   In part 2 of this interview, Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the science of strength and why the accepted wisdom of exercise may actually be causing more harm than good. Learn how many exercises you really need during a session, why “cardio” exercises aren’t necessary if you use the right level of effort, and how to keep yourself from getting injured by reducing the range of motion w

Sep 18, 2024 • 32:21

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 1

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science of strength and how it may affect your fitness plans and goals...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher break down the science of strength and discuss what the proper level of resistance during training is, the threshold for the effort that you need to achieve to see results, and why some exercises are best avoided if you want to see optimal fitness benefits. Fisher is an exercise scientist in the UK and was a personal train

Sep 11, 2024 • 23:59

What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about why supervision is key to effective workouts...   When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who  can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss why supervision is the key to effective strength training, and how when that’s combined with the digital feedback at the Exercise Coach, you can

Sep 4, 2024 • 17:38

Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about isolation vs compound exercises...   Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compound exercises at the very beginning of your exercise program is the key to getting the most results in the shortest amount of time. Pre-exhaustion i

Aug 28, 2024 • 7:23

Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the right movements and how they may give you more time...   Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking less time to perform, as well as which exercise is the most effective movement in The Exercise Coach program. The aim of The Exercise Coach is to

Aug 21, 2024 • 11:04

Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn the truth about stretching before and after exercise...   Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretching before and after exercise and discuss whether or not stretching is a necessary component of strength training. Do you need to stretch before you

Aug 14, 2024 • 15:50

Is It Safe to Wear a Mask While Exercising?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about oxygen intake and masks...   Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about whether or not wearing a mask during exercise is a safe thing to do. Amy and Brian breakdown the studies and science behind wearing a mask and oxygen intake, and reveal why The Exercise Coach program makes wearing a mask a minor detail in the pursuit of fitness results. Covid has made wearing a mask much more common but a lot of peop

Aug 7, 2024 • 12:03

Do Smart Scales Actually Work?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how smart scales can be important to your fitness journey...   Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people make with a smart scale that can derail them in the first few weeks of their fitness journey. What is a smart scale and how are they different? The m

Jul 31, 2024 • 16:40

What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how strength training can help people with osteoporosis...   Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what exercises you should do to strengthen the most vulnerable parts of your body, and what exercises you should avoid completely.  Many people are recomm

Jul 24, 2024 • 14:53

Is Twice Per Week Really Often Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the optimal amount of exercise...   One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you need to achieve the best fitness results for your body in the shortest amount of time possible. Exercising twice a week is more than enough. In fact,

Jul 17, 2024 • 10:27

Does Muscle Really Weigh More Than Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about muscle vs fat while on the road to improved health...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people start a strength training program, they look at their body composition and may wonder whether muscle is heavier than fat. The accurate answer is tha

Jul 10, 2024 • 7:21

Is 20 Minutes Really Long Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the benefits of doing the right workout...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal health benefits by doing the right workout, for the right length of time, just twice a week. Is 20 minutes long enough to have a great workout? Si

Jul 3, 2024 • 8:57

What is the Best Way to Lose Belly Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the truth to losing belly fat...   Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredible results that Exercise Coach clients can get, including reducing their belly fat, by joining the Metabolic Comeback Challenge.  A common goal fo

Jun 26, 2024 • 19:18

Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about preventing the ill effects of aging...   Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one of the best ways to prevent the ill effects of aging, even if you are afraid of your joint pain or heart issues holding you back. A number of peopl

Jun 19, 2024 • 18:35

Can I Get Strong Without Getting Bulky?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about getting toned and lean, rather than bulky...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always wanted. Will two 20-minute workouts a week help someone get toned? According to the scientific definition, toneness refers to the level of tension in a

Jun 12, 2024 • 12:07

What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about exercise for athletes vs the average person...   Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average person train and why achieving high levels of sports performance and everyday fitness are not accomplished the same way. Can strength training and who

Jun 5, 2024 • 15:15

What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean into Old Age

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about staying strong as you age...   In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even worse health outcomes if not done properly. While improving heart health is great, it’s not everyone’s goal when exercising or doing cardio. Weight

May 29, 2024 • 16:12

What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about strength training versus traditional cardio...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get off the treadmill and start doing resistance training right now. The fundamental question is “What is cardio?” Even people who have seen the result

May 22, 2024 • 23:07

The World’s Smartest 20-Minute Workout

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how this smart workout program can work for anyone!   Brian and Amy discuss the cutting edge technology that powers the Exercise Coach and makes it possible to deliver the world’s smartest 20-minute workout. Learn the secret to maximizing fitness results in the shortest time possible and how the Exerbotics technology makes exercise more fun and effective, while being more efficient at the same time. There are three things that make

May 15, 2024 • 40:33

Why Muscle Quality Matters More Than Movement Quantity

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about quality over quantity!   Learn about why systemic inflammation is known as the silent killer, why inflammation creates a vicious cycle that very few people escape as they get older, and how you can be one of the few who do. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal why muscle quality matters more than movement quantity and how strength training for 20 minutes at a time will transform your life, no matter how old you are. Muscle quality matt

May 8, 2024 • 23:50

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about starting and sticking with the right exercise program!   Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to th

May 1, 2024 • 33:13

The Optimal Exercise Program For Maximal Results in Minimal Time

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our optimal exercise program...   Brian and Amy break down some of the most common misconceptions around exercise and reveal how Exercise Coach clients are getting maximal results from only a couple 20-minute workouts each week. Learn the three most important aspects of exercise and why you need to think about exercise completely differently if you want to achieve the health and fitness results you want. The manner in which we exerc

Apr 24, 2024 • 43:02

The Origin Story of the Exercise Coach and Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our origin story...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal the origin story of the Exercise Coach and the one book that completely changed the trajectory of Brian’s life by transforming his understanding of what strength training can do in your life and how quickly you can see results. Find out how the Exercise Coach is changing lives 20 minutes at a time. The goal of the Strength Changes Everything podcast is to inspire and empower pe

Apr 17, 2024 • 22:11

Running Isn’t the Only Way To Train Your Heart and Lungs

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about your energy systems and how effective strength training is in how they work...   Brian recently had a friend come into the Exercise Coach and he was shocked to find how quickly his heart rate went up after only 60 seconds of properly calibrated strength training exercise, despite being an avid runner. Discover how the three energy systems of the body work, and why high-intensity strength training is definitively the best way to renova

Apr 10, 2024 • 19:24

How Fitness Might Help You Live Longer

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about myths involving fitness...   Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why a proper strength training program is the best way to maintain fitness as we age.  There is a ton of information regarding health and fitness out t

Apr 3, 2024 • 17:57

The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about dose-response and what it means for your fitness...   Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you should really be paying attention to, and how it can guide you to easier fitness gains in a shorter amount of time. More exercise is not necessari

Mar 27, 2024 • 11:33

Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how strength training should complement dieting for weight loss...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recipe for long term disaster for your body.  There is a direct connection between your body’s muscle mass and its metabolic effectiveness, the ability

Mar 20, 2024 • 8:58

The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about effective exercise for your lower back and what can surprisingly make lower back pain worse...   In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower back muscles. Find out how some people can experience significant lower back strength gain in as little as ten weeks with only 15 total minutes of m

Mar 13, 2024 • 21:51

The Causes of Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about solving the problems causing lower back pain...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatments only deal with the symptoms and the pain instead of solving the problem, which often leads to even worse issues down the road. Fisher is an acade

Mar 6, 2024 • 19:29

Muscle Burn Is Your Friend

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the importance of muscle burn...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, you won’t get the fitness results you’re looking for. The intensity of an exercise is crucial to achieving the fitness results you want, and the fee

Feb 28, 2024 • 16:10

How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about life-changing advice and details about pre-diabetes...   Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, this information could change your life. Approximately 1 in 3 Americans are pre-diabetic, whic

Feb 21, 2024 • 17:02

The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the Exercise Coach's strong business model...   Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a great franchise to open, and why the community of franchisees that support one another is the secret ingredient to franchise success. Jesse is the

Feb 14, 2024 • 26:16

Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about misconceptions about machines and if free weights or machines are better...   Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in the timeframe they want, and why free weights can lead to reduced strength gains and a higher risk of injury. Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find

Feb 7, 2024 • 16:03

What Makes Exerbotics So Effective?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how you can use more effort in less time...   Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overload is and how to optimize your exercise so you can use more effort in less time, and see greater results. Eccentric training is well understood by

Jan 31, 2024 • 16:47

The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science and principles behind strength training...   Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workout session at the Exercise Coach. Over the past few months, Brian has been working on the Strength Changes Everything Scientific Support Paper. It h

Jan 24, 2024 • 12:28

How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the benefits of strength training in a fun manner...   In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something as important to your long-term health and performance as strength training, the ensuing list is ridiculously long and comprehensive. With the Nati

Jan 17, 2024 • 17:53

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 2

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about what is accepted versus what is truth...   In part 2 of this interview, Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the science of strength and why the accepted wisdom of exercise may actually be causing more harm than good. Learn how many exercises you really need during a session, why “cardio” exercises aren’t necessary if you use the right level of effort, and how to keep yourself from getting injured by reducing the range of motion w

Jan 10, 2024 • 32:21

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 1

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science of strength and how it may affect your fitness plans and goals...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher break down the science of strength and discuss what the proper level of resistance during training is, the threshold for the effort that you need to achieve to see results, and why some exercises are best avoided if you want to see optimal fitness benefits. Fisher is an exercise scientist in the UK and was a personal train

Jan 3, 2024 • 23:59

What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about why supervision is key to effective workouts...   When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who  can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss why supervision is the key to effective strength training, and how when that’s combined with the digital feedback at the Exercise Coach, you can

Dec 27, 2023 • 17:38

Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about isolation vs compound exercises...   Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compound exercises at the very beginning of your exercise program is the key to getting the most results in the shortest amount of time. Pre-exhaustion i

Dec 20, 2023 • 7:23

Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the right movements and how they may give you more time...   Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking less time to perform, as well as which exercise is the most effective movement in The Exercise Coach program. The aim of The Exercise Coach is to

Dec 13, 2023 • 11:04

Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn the truth about stretching before and after exercise...   Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretching before and after exercise and discuss whether or not stretching is a necessary component of strength training. Do you need to stretch before you

Dec 6, 2023 • 15:50

Is It Safe to Wear a Mask While Exercising?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about oxygen intake and masks...   Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about whether or not wearing a mask during exercise is a safe thing to do. Amy and Brian breakdown the studies and science behind wearing a mask and oxygen intake, and reveal why The Exercise Coach program makes wearing a mask a minor detail in the pursuit of fitness results. Covid has made wearing a mask much more common but a lot of peop

Nov 29, 2023 • 12:03

Do Smart Scales Actually Work?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how smart scales can be important to your fitness journey...   Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people make with a smart scale that can derail them in the first few weeks of their fitness journey. What is a smart scale and how are they different? The m

Nov 22, 2023 • 16:40

What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how strength training can help people with osteoporosis...   Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what exercises you should do to strengthen the most vulnerable parts of your body, and what exercises you should avoid completely.  Many people are recomm

Nov 15, 2023 • 14:53

Is Twice Per Week Really Often Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the optimal amount of exercise...   One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you need to achieve the best fitness results for your body in the shortest amount of time possible. Exercising twice a week is more than enough. In fact,

Nov 8, 2023 • 10:27

Does Muscle Really Weigh More Than Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about muscle vs fat while on the road to improved health...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people start a strength training program, they look at their body composition and may wonder whether muscle is heavier than fat. The accurate answer is tha

Nov 1, 2023 • 7:21

Is 20 Minutes Really Long Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the benefits of doing the right workout...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal health benefits by doing the right workout, for the right length of time, just twice a week. Is 20 minutes long enough to have a great workout? Si

Oct 25, 2023 • 8:57

What is the Best Way to Lose Belly Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the truth to losing belly fat...   Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredible results that Exercise Coach clients can get, including reducing their belly fat, by joining the Metabolic Comeback Challenge.  A common goal fo

Oct 18, 2023 • 19:18

Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about preventing the ill effects of aging...   Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one of the best ways to prevent the ill effects of aging, even if you are afraid of your joint pain or heart issues holding you back. A number of peopl

Oct 11, 2023 • 18:35

Can I Get Strong Without Getting Bulky?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about getting toned and lean, rather than bulky...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always wanted. Will two 20-minute workouts a week help someone get toned? According to the scientific definition, toneness refers to the level of tension in a

Oct 4, 2023 • 12:07

What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about exercise for athletes vs the average person...   Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average person train and why achieving high levels of sports performance and everyday fitness are not accomplished the same way. Can strength training and who

Sep 27, 2023 • 15:15

What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean into Old Age

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about staying strong as you age...   In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even worse health outcomes if not done properly. While improving heart health is great, it’s not everyone’s goal when exercising or doing cardio. Weight

Sep 20, 2023 • 16:12

What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about strength training versus traditional cardio...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get off the treadmill and start doing resistance training right now. The fundamental question is “What is cardio?” Even people who have seen the result

Sep 13, 2023 • 23:07

The World’s Smartest 20-Minute Workout

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how this smart workout program can work for anyone!   Brian and Amy discuss the cutting edge technology that powers the Exercise Coach and makes it possible to deliver the world’s smartest 20-minute workout. Learn the secret to maximizing fitness results in the shortest time possible and how the Exerbotics technology makes exercise more fun and effective, while being more efficient at the same time. There are three things that make

Sep 6, 2023 • 40:33

Why Muscle Quality Matters More Than Movement Quantity

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about quality over quantity!   Learn about why systemic inflammation is known as the silent killer, why inflammation creates a vicious cycle that very few people escape as they get older, and how you can be one of the few who do. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal why muscle quality matters more than movement quantity and how strength training for 20 minutes at a time will transform your life, no matter how old you are. Muscle quality matt

Aug 30, 2023 • 23:50

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about starting and sticking with the right exercise program!   Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to th

Aug 23, 2023 • 33:13

The Optimal Exercise Program For Maximal Results in Minimal Time

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our optimal exercise program...   Brian and Amy break down some of the most common misconceptions around exercise and reveal how Exercise Coach clients are getting maximal results from only a couple 20-minute workouts each week. Learn the three most important aspects of exercise and why you need to think about exercise completely differently if you want to achieve the health and fitness results you want. The manner in which we exerc

Aug 16, 2023 • 43:02

The Origin Story of the Exercise Coach and Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our origin story...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal the origin story of the Exercise Coach and the one book that completely changed the trajectory of Brian’s life by transforming his understanding of what strength training can do in your life and how quickly you can see results. Find out how the Exercise Coach is changing lives 20 minutes at a time. The goal of the Strength Changes Everything podcast is to inspire and empower pe

Aug 9, 2023 • 22:11

Running Isn’t the Only Way To Train Your Heart and Lungs

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about your energy systems and how effective strength training is in how they work...   Brian recently had a friend come into the Exercise Coach and he was shocked to find how quickly his heart rate went up after only 60 seconds of properly calibrated strength training exercise, despite being an avid runner. Discover how the three energy systems of the body work, and why high-intensity strength training is definitively the best way to renova

Aug 2, 2023 • 19:24

How Fitness Might Help You Live Longer

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about myths involving fitness...   Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why a proper strength training program is the best way to maintain fitness as we age.  There is a ton of information regarding health and fitness out t

Jul 26, 2023 • 17:57

The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about dose-response and what it means for your fitness...   Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you should really be paying attention to, and how it can guide you to easier fitness gains in a shorter amount of time. More exercise is not necessari

Jul 19, 2023 • 11:33

Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how strength training should complement dieting for weight loss...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recipe for long term disaster for your body.  There is a direct connection between your body’s muscle mass and its metabolic effectiveness, the ability

Jul 12, 2023 • 8:58

The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about effective exercise for your lower back and what can surprisingly make lower back pain worse...   In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower back muscles. Find out how some people can experience significant lower back strength gain in as little as ten weeks with only 15 total minutes of m

Jul 5, 2023 • 21:51

The Causes of Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about solving the problems causing lower back pain...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatments only deal with the symptoms and the pain instead of solving the problem, which often leads to even worse issues down the road. Fisher is an acade

Jun 28, 2023 • 19:29

Muscle Burn Is Your Friend

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the importance of muscle burn...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, you won’t get the fitness results you’re looking for. The intensity of an exercise is crucial to achieving the fitness results you want, and the fee

Jun 21, 2023 • 16:10

How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about life-changing advice and details about pre-diabetes...   Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, this information could change your life. Approximately 1 in 3 Americans are pre-diabetic, whic

Jun 14, 2023 • 17:02

The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the Exercise Coach's strong business model...   Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a great franchise to open, and why the community of franchisees that support one another is the secret ingredient to franchise success. Jesse is the

Jun 7, 2023 • 26:16

Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about misconceptions about machines and if free weights or machines are better...   Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in the timeframe they want, and why free weights can lead to reduced strength gains and a higher risk of injury. Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find

May 31, 2023 • 16:03

What Makes Exerbotics So Effective?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how you can use more effort in less time...   Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overload is and how to optimize your exercise so you can use more effort in less time, and see greater results. Eccentric training is well understood by

May 24, 2023 • 16:47

The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science and principles behind strength training...   Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workout session at the Exercise Coach. Over the past few months, Brian has been working on the Strength Changes Everything Scientific Support Paper. It h

May 17, 2023 • 12:28

How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the benefits of strength training in a fun manner...   In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something as important to your long-term health and performance as strength training, the ensuing list is ridiculously long and comprehensive. With the Nati

May 10, 2023 • 17:53

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 2

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about what is accepted versus what is truth...   In part 2 of this interview, Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the science of strength and why the accepted wisdom of exercise may actually be causing more harm than good. Learn how many exercises you really need during a session, why “cardio” exercises aren’t necessary if you use the right level of effort, and how to keep yourself from getting injured by reducing the range of motion w

May 3, 2023 • 32:21

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 1

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science of strength and how it may affect your fitness plans and goals...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher break down the science of strength and discuss what the proper level of resistance during training is, the threshold for the effort that you need to achieve to see results, and why some exercises are best avoided if you want to see optimal fitness benefits. Fisher is an exercise scientist in the UK and was a personal train

Apr 26, 2023 • 23:59

What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about why supervision is key to effective workouts...   When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who  can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss why supervision is the key to effective strength training, and how when that’s combined with the digital feedback at the Exercise Coach, you can

Apr 19, 2023 • 17:38

Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about isolation vs compound exercises...   Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compound exercises at the very beginning of your exercise program is the key to getting the most results in the shortest amount of time. Pre-exhaustion i

Apr 12, 2023 • 7:23

Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the right movements and how they may give you more time...   Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking less time to perform, as well as which exercise is the most effective movement in The Exercise Coach program. The aim of The Exercise Coach is to

Apr 5, 2023 • 11:04

Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn the truth about stretching before and after exercise...   Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretching before and after exercise and discuss whether or not stretching is a necessary component of strength training. Do you need to stretch before you

Mar 29, 2023 • 15:50

Is It Safe to Wear a Mask While Exercising?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about oxygen intake and masks...   Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about whether or not wearing a mask during exercise is a safe thing to do. Amy and Brian breakdown the studies and science behind wearing a mask and oxygen intake, and reveal why The Exercise Coach program makes wearing a mask a minor detail in the pursuit of fitness results. Covid has made wearing a mask much more common but a lot of peop

Mar 22, 2023 • 12:03

Do Smart Scales Actually Work?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how smart scales can be important to your fitness journey...   Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people make with a smart scale that can derail them in the first few weeks of their fitness journey. What is a smart scale and how are they different? The m

Mar 15, 2023 • 16:40

What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how strength training can help people with osteoporosis...   Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what exercises you should do to strengthen the most vulnerable parts of your body, and what exercises you should avoid completely.  Many people are recomm

Mar 8, 2023 • 14:53

Is Twice Per Week Really Often Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the optimal amount of exercise...   One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you need to achieve the best fitness results for your body in the shortest amount of time possible. Exercising twice a week is more than enough. In fact,

Mar 1, 2023 • 10:27

Does Muscle Really Weigh More Than Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about muscle vs fat while on the road to improved health...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people start a strength training program, they look at their body composition and may wonder whether muscle is heavier than fat. The accurate answer is tha

Feb 22, 2023 • 7:21

Is 20 Minutes Really Long Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the benefits of doing the right workout...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal health benefits by doing the right workout, for the right length of time, just twice a week. Is 20 minutes long enough to have a great workout? Si

Feb 15, 2023 • 8:57

What is the Best Way to Lose Belly Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the truth to losing belly fat...   Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredible results that Exercise Coach clients can get, including reducing their belly fat, by joining the Metabolic Comeback Challenge.  A common goal fo

Feb 8, 2023 • 19:18

Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about preventing the ill effects of aging...   Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one of the best ways to prevent the ill effects of aging, even if you are afraid of your joint pain or heart issues holding you back. A number of peopl

Feb 1, 2023 • 18:35

Can I Get Strong Without Getting Bulky?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about getting toned and lean, rather than bulky...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always wanted. Will two 20-minute workouts a week help someone get toned? According to the scientific definition, toneness refers to the level of tension in a

Jan 25, 2023 • 12:07

What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about exercise for athletes vs the average person...   Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average person train and why achieving high levels of sports performance and everyday fitness are not accomplished the same way. Can strength training and who

Jan 18, 2023 • 15:15

What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean into Old Age

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about staying strong as you age...   In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even worse health outcomes if not done properly. While improving heart health is great, it’s not everyone’s goal when exercising or doing cardio. Weight

Jan 11, 2023 • 16:12

What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about strength training versus traditional cardio...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get off the treadmill and start doing resistance training right now. The fundamental question is “What is cardio?” Even people who have seen the result

Jan 4, 2023 • 23:07

The World’s Smartest 20-Minute Workout

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how this smart workout program can work for anyone!   Brian and Amy discuss the cutting edge technology that powers the Exercise Coach and makes it possible to deliver the world’s smartest 20-minute workout. Learn the secret to maximizing fitness results in the shortest time possible and how the Exerbotics technology makes exercise more fun and effective, while being more efficient at the same time. There are three things that make

Dec 28, 2022 • 40:33

Why Muscle Quality Matters More Than Movement Quantity

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about quality over quantity!   Learn about why systemic inflammation is known as the silent killer, why inflammation creates a vicious cycle that very few people escape as they get older, and how you can be one of the few who do. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal why muscle quality matters more than movement quantity and how strength training for 20 minutes at a time will transform your life, no matter how old you are. Muscle quality matt

Dec 21, 2022 • 23:50

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about starting and sticking with the right exercise program!   Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to th

Dec 14, 2022 • 33:13

The Optimal Exercise Program For Maximal Results in Minimal Time

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our optimal exercise program...   Brian and Amy break down some of the most common misconceptions around exercise and reveal how Exercise Coach clients are getting maximal results from only a couple 20-minute workouts each week. Learn the three most important aspects of exercise and why you need to think about exercise completely differently if you want to achieve the health and fitness results you want. The manner in which we exerc

Dec 7, 2022 • 43:02

The Origin Story of the Exercise Coach and Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our origin story...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal the origin story of the Exercise Coach and the one book that completely changed the trajectory of Brian’s life by transforming his understanding of what strength training can do in your life and how quickly you can see results. Find out how the Exercise Coach is changing lives 20 minutes at a time. The goal of the Strength Changes Everything podcast is to inspire and empower pe

Nov 30, 2022 • 22:11

Running Isn’t the Only Way To Train Your Heart and Lungs

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about your energy systems and how effective strength training is in how they work...   Brian recently had a friend come into the Exercise Coach and he was shocked to find how quickly his heart rate went up after only 60 seconds of properly calibrated strength training exercise, despite being an avid runner. Discover how the three energy systems of the body work, and why high-intensity strength training is definitively the best way to renova

Nov 23, 2022 • 19:24

How Fitness Might Help You Live Longer

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about myths involving fitness...   Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why a proper strength training program is the best way to maintain fitness as we age.  There is a ton of information regarding health and fitness out t

Nov 16, 2022 • 17:57

The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about dose-response and what it means for your fitness...   Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you should really be paying attention to, and how it can guide you to easier fitness gains in a shorter amount of time. More exercise is not necessari

Nov 9, 2022 • 11:33

Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how strength training should complement dieting for weight loss...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recipe for long term disaster for your body.  There is a direct connection between your body’s muscle mass and its metabolic effectiveness, the ability

Nov 2, 2022 • 8:58

The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about effective exercise for your lower back and what can surprisingly make lower back pain worse...   In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower back muscles. Find out how some people can experience significant lower back strength gain in as little as ten weeks with only 15 total minutes of m

Oct 26, 2022 • 21:51

The Causes of Lower Back Pain

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about solving the problems causing lower back pain...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatments only deal with the symptoms and the pain instead of solving the problem, which often leads to even worse issues down the road. Fisher is an acade

Oct 19, 2022 • 19:29

Muscle Burn Is Your Friend

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the importance of muscle burn...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, you won’t get the fitness results you’re looking for. The intensity of an exercise is crucial to achieving the fitness results you want, and the fee

Oct 12, 2022 • 16:10

How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about life-changing advice and details about pre-diabetes...   Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, this information could change your life. Approximately 1 in 3 Americans are pre-diabetic, whic

Oct 5, 2022 • 17:02

The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the Exercise Coach's strong business model...   Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a great franchise to open, and why the community of franchisees that support one another is the secret ingredient to franchise success. Jesse is the

Sep 28, 2022 • 26:16

Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about misconceptions about machines and if free weights or machines are better...   Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in the timeframe they want, and why free weights can lead to reduced strength gains and a higher risk of injury. Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find

Sep 21, 2022 • 16:03

What Makes Exerbotics So Effective?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about how you can use more effort in less time...   Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overload is and how to optimize your exercise so you can use more effort in less time, and see greater results. Eccentric training is well understood by

Sep 14, 2022 • 16:47

The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science and principles behind strength training...   Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workout session at the Exercise Coach. Over the past few months, Brian has been working on the Strength Changes Everything Scientific Support Paper. It h

Sep 7, 2022 • 12:28

How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the benefits of strength training in a fun manner...   In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something as important to your long-term health and performance as strength training, the ensuing list is ridiculously long and comprehensive. With the Nati

Aug 31, 2022 • 17:53

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 2

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about what is accepted versus what is truth...   In part 2 of this interview, Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the science of strength and why the accepted wisdom of exercise may actually be causing more harm than good. Learn how many exercises you really need during a session, why “cardio” exercises aren’t necessary if you use the right level of effort, and how to keep yourself from getting injured by reducing the range of motion w

Aug 24, 2022 • 32:21

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 1

Join us for this replay from the archives to learn more about the science of strength and how it may affect your fitness plans and goals...   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher break down the science of strength and discuss what the proper level of resistance during training is, the threshold for the effort that you need to achieve to see results, and why some exercises are best avoided if you want to see optimal fitness benefits. Fisher is an exercise scientist in the UK and was a personal train

Aug 17, 2022 • 23:59

What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about why supervision is key to effective workouts...   When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who  can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss why supervision is the key to effective strength training, and how when that’s combined with the digital feedback at the Exercise Coach, you can

Aug 10, 2022 • 17:38

Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about isolation vs compound exercises...   Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compound exercises at the very beginning of your exercise program is the key to getting the most results in the shortest amount of time. Pre-exhaustion i

Aug 3, 2022 • 7:23

Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the right movements and how they may give you more time...   Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking less time to perform, as well as which exercise is the most effective movement in The Exercise Coach program. The aim of The Exercise Coach is to

Jul 27, 2022 • 11:04

Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn the truth about stretching before and after exercise...   Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretching before and after exercise and discuss whether or not stretching is a necessary component of strength training. Do you need to stretch before you

Jul 20, 2022 • 15:50

Do Smart Scales Actually Work?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how smart scales can be important to your fitness journey...   Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people make with a smart scale that can derail them in the first few weeks of their fitness journey. What is a smart scale and how are they different? The m

Jul 13, 2022 • 16:40

What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how strength training can help people with osteoporosis...   Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what exercises you should do to strengthen the most vulnerable parts of your body, and what exercises you should avoid completely.  Many people are recomm

Jul 6, 2022 • 14:53

Is Twice Per Week Really Often Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the optimal amount of exercise...   One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you need to achieve the best fitness results for your body in the shortest amount of time possible. Exercising twice a week is more than enough. In fact,

Jun 29, 2022 • 10:27

Does Muscle Really Weigh More Than Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about muscle vs fat while on the road to improved health...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people start a strength training program, they look at their body composition and may wonder whether muscle is heavier than fat. The accurate answer is tha

Jun 22, 2022 • 7:21

Is 20 Minutes Really Long Enough?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the benefits of doing the right workout...   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal health benefits by doing the right workout, for the right length of time, just twice a week. Is 20 minutes long enough to have a great workout? Si

Jun 15, 2022 • 8:57

What is the Best Way to Lose Belly Fat?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about the truth to losing belly fat...   Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredible results that Exercise Coach clients can get, including reducing their belly fat, by joining the Metabolic Comeback Challenge.  A common goal fo

Jun 8, 2022 • 19:18

Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about preventing the ill effects of aging...   Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one of the best ways to prevent the ill effects of aging, even if you are afraid of your joint pain or heart issues holding you back. A number of peopl

Jun 1, 2022 • 18:35

Can I Get Strong Without Getting Bulky?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about getting toned and lean, rather than bulky...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always wanted. Will two 20-minute workouts a week help someone get toned? According to the scientific definition, toneness refers to the level of tension in a

May 25, 2022 • 12:07

What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about exercise for athletes vs the average person...   Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average person train and why achieving high levels of sports performance and everyday fitness are not accomplished the same way. Can strength training and who

May 18, 2022 • 15:15

What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean into Old Age

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about staying strong as you age...   In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even worse health outcomes if not done properly. While improving heart health is great, it’s not everyone’s goal when exercising or doing cardio. Weight

May 11, 2022 • 16:12

What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about strength training versus traditional cardio...   Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get off the treadmill and start doing resistance training right now. The fundamental question is “What is cardio?” Even people who have seen the result

May 4, 2022 • 23:07

The World’s Smartest 20-Minute Workout

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about how this smart workout program can work for anyone!   Brian and Amy discuss the cutting edge technology that powers the Exercise Coach and makes it possible to deliver the world’s smartest 20-minute workout. Learn the secret to maximizing fitness results in the shortest time possible and how the Exerbotics technology makes exercise more fun and effective, while being more efficient at the same time. There are three things that make

Apr 27, 2022 • 40:33

Running Isn’t the Only Way To Train Your Heart and Lungs

Brian recently had a friend come into the Exercise Coach and he was shocked to find how quickly his heart rate went up after only 60 seconds of properly calibrated strength training exercise, despite being an avid runner. Discover how the three energy systems of the body work, and why high-intensity strength training is definitively the best way to renovate your muscles, heart, and lungs at the same time and combat type 2 diabetes and the most common age-related diseases people suffer from today

Apr 20, 2022 • 19:24

Why Muscle Quality Matters More Than Movement Quantity

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about quality over quantity!   Learn about why systemic inflammation is known as the silent killer, why inflammation creates a vicious cycle that very few people escape as they get older, and how you can be one of the few who do. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal why muscle quality matters more than movement quantity and how strength training for 20 minutes at a time will transform your life, no matter how old you are. Muscle quality matt

Apr 13, 2022 • 23:50

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about starting and sticking with the right exercise program!   Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to th

Apr 6, 2022 • 33:13

The Optimal Exercise Program For Maximal Results in Minimal Time

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our optimal exercise program...   Brian and Amy break down some of the most common misconceptions around exercise and reveal how Exercise Coach clients are getting maximal results from only a couple 20-minute workouts each week. Learn the three most important aspects of exercise and why you need to think about exercise completely differently if you want to achieve the health and fitness results you want. The manner in which we exerc

Mar 30, 2022 • 43:02

The Origin Story of the Exercise Coach and Why Strength Changes Everything

Join us for this replay from the archives and learn more about our origin story...   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal the origin story of the Exercise Coach and the one book that completely changed the trajectory of Brian’s life by transforming his understanding of what strength training can do in your life and how quickly you can see results. Find out how the Exercise Coach is changing lives 20 minutes at a time. The goal of the Strength Changes Everything podcast is to inspire and empower pe

Mar 23, 2022 • 22:11

How Fitness Might Help You Live Longer

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why a proper strength training program is the best way to maintain fitness as we age.  There is a ton of information regarding health and fitness out there, and sometimes

Mar 16, 2022 • 17:57

Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compound exercises at the very beginning of your exercise program is the key to getting the most results in the shortest amount of time. Pre-exhaustion is the idea that performing an

Mar 9, 2022 • 7:23

Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at  the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking less time to perform, as well as which exercise is the most effective movement in The Exercise Coach program. The aim of The Exercise Coach is to design workouts that are total body focused, safe, a

Mar 2, 2022 • 11:04

What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who  can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss why supervision is the key to effective strength training, and how when that’s combined with the digital feedback at the Exercise Coach, you can achieve the fitness results you’ve always

Feb 23, 2022 • 17:38

Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recipe for long term disaster for your body.  There is a direct connection between your body’s muscle mass and its metabolic effectiveness, the ability to lose fat and keep it off, and your overall health. Why do

Feb 16, 2022 • 8:58

The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you should really be paying attention to, and how it can guide you to easier fitness gains in a shorter amount of time. More exercise is not necessarily better. The dose-response relationship app

Feb 9, 2022 • 11:33

The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a great franchise to open, and why the community of franchisees that support one another is the secret ingredient to franchise success. Jesse is the National Franchise Director for the Exe

Feb 2, 2022 • 26:16

Is It Safe to Wear a Mask While Exercising?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about whether or not wearing a mask during exercise is a safe thing to do. Amy and Brian breakdown the studies and science behind wearing a mask and oxygen intake, and reveal why The Exercise Coach program makes wearing a mask a minor detail in the pursuit of fitness results. Covid has made wearing a mask much more common but a lot of people are wondering if i

Jan 26, 2022 • 12:03

How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something as important to your long-term health and performance as strength training, the ensuing list is ridiculously long and comprehensive. With the National Exercise Coach Conference approaching rap

Jan 19, 2022 • 17:53

The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower back muscles. Find out how some people can experience significant lower back strength gain in as little as ten weeks with only 15 total minutes of muscle tension (60 to 90 seconds per week!) and why stretching without strength training

Jan 12, 2022 • 21:51

The Causes of Lower Back Pain

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatments only deal with the symptoms and the pain instead of solving the problem, which often leads to even worse issues down the road. Fisher is an academic and researcher in the UK. He’s publis

Jan 5, 2022 • 19:29

How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, this information could change your life. Approximately 1 in 3 Americans are pre-diabetic, which increases their risk of developing Type 2 Diab

Dec 29, 2021 • 17:02

Can I Get Strong Without Getting Bulky?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always wanted. Will two 20-minute workouts a week help someone get toned? According to the scientific definition, toneness refers to the level of tension in a muscle at rest, but most people refer

Dec 22, 2021 • 12:07

How Fitness Might Help You Live Longer

Brian and Amy explore a couple of articles talking about the impacts of weight loss vs. exercise on longevity, and discuss the myths surrounding losing weight and achieving optimal physical health. Learn why focusing on losing weight is the wrong goal, and why a proper strength training program is the best way to maintain fitness as we age.  There is a ton of information regarding health and fitness out there, and sometimes the info conflicts, so discerning the truth can be challenging. A recen

Dec 15, 2021 • 17:57

Do Smart Scales Actually Work?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people make with a smart scale that can derail them in the first few weeks of their fitness journey. What is a smart scale and how are they different? The major difference is the measurement of body composition

Dec 8, 2021 • 16:40

Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in the timeframe they want, and why free weights can lead to reduced strength gains and a higher risk of injury. Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find any free weights at any of the Exercise Coach locations and for good

Dec 1, 2021 • 16:03

Muscle Burn Is Your Friend

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, you won’t get the fitness results you’re looking for. The intensity of an exercise is crucial to achieving the fitness results you want, and the feeling of muscle burn is a p

Nov 24, 2021 • 16:10

What Makes Exerbotics So Effective?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overload is and how to optimize your exercise so you can use more effort in less time, and see greater results. Eccentric training is well understood by research labs and high-level coaches

Nov 17, 2021 • 16:47

The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workout session at the Exercise Coach. Over the past few months, Brian has been working on the Strength Changes Everything Scientific Support Paper. It has hundreds of scientific resources and is desig

Nov 10, 2021 • 12:28

What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average person train and why achieving high levels of sports performance and everyday fitness are not accomplished the same way. Can strength training and whole food nutrition be enough to transform

Nov 3, 2021 • 15:15

What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean into Old Age

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even worse health outcomes if not done properly. While improving heart health is great, it’s not everyone’s goal when exercising or doing cardio. Weight loss is another major f

Oct 27, 2021 • 16:12

What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get off the treadmill and start doing resistance training right now. The fundamental question is “What is cardio?” Even people who have seen the results of the 20-minute routines delivered by

Oct 20, 2021 • 23:07

Does Muscle Really Weigh More Than Fat?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people start a strength training program, they look at their body composition and may wonder whether muscle is heavier than fat. The accurate answer is that muscle is more dense than fat. When people say

Oct 13, 2021 • 7:21

Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretching before and after exercise and discuss whether or not stretching is a necessary component of strength training. Do you need to stretch before you work out? There are a lot of prevailin

Oct 6, 2021 • 15:50

Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one of the best ways to prevent the ill effects of aging, even if you are afraid of your joint pain or heart issues holding you back. A number of people are curious whether strength tr

Sep 29, 2021 • 18:35

Is Twice Per Week Really Often Enough?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you need to achieve the best fitness results for your body in the shortest amount of time possible. Exercising twice a week is more than enough. In fact, exercising more often can ac

Sep 22, 2021 • 10:27

What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week! Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what exercises you should do to strengthen the most vulnerable parts of your body, and what exercises you should avoid completely.  Many people are recommended to engage in weight bearing exercise to help deal

Sep 15, 2021 • 14:53

Why Muscle Quality Matters More Than Movement Quantity

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week! Learn about why systemic inflammation is known as the silent killer, why inflammation creates a vicious cycle that very few people escape as they get older, and how you can be one of the few who do. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal why muscle quality matters more than movement quantity and how strength training for 20 minutes at a time will transform your life, no matter how old you are. Muscle quality matters more than movem

Sep 8, 2021 • 23:50

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to the table. Nearly 85% of the population is not eng

Sep 1, 2021 • 33:13

The Dose-Response Relationship in Exercise

Learn how a little-known principle in exercise determines whether you get the fitness results you are looking for, or you just spend some time moving weights up and down at the gym. Find out why the dose-response to exercise is what you should really be paying attention to, and how it can guide you to easier fitness gains in a shorter amount of time. More exercise is not necessarily better. The dose-response relationship applies not only to medication and stressors but also to exercise. It desc

Aug 25, 2021 • 11:33

Is 20 Minutes Really Long Enough?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal health benefits by doing the right workout, for the right length of time, just twice a week. Is 20 minutes long enough to have a great workout? Simply put, absolutely. The training at

Aug 18, 2021 • 8:57

Why Does Muscle Really Matter for Weight Loss?

Dr. James Fisher answers the question “Why does muscle really matter for weight loss?” Find out why muscle mass should be a vital component of your weight loss strategy and why dieting without strength training is a recipe for long term disaster for your body.  There is a direct connection between your body’s muscle mass and its metabolic effectiveness, the ability to lose fat and keep it off, and your overall health. Why does muscle matter for weight loss? Muscle is metabolic reactive and cons

Aug 11, 2021 • 8:58

The Secret to Strengthening Your Lower Back and Eliminating Lower Back Pain

In part two of the interview with Dr. James Fisher, we explore what it takes to actually strengthen the lower back and why exercises like the deadlift are not effective in targeting your lower back muscles. Find out how some people can experience significant lower back strength gain in as little as ten weeks with only 15 total minutes of muscle tension (60 to 90 seconds per week!) and why stretching without strength training can actually make your lower back pain worse. The lower back is a noto

Aug 4, 2021 • 21:51

The Causes of Lower Back Pain

Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the origins of lower back pain and why the vast majority of Americans will experience some form of lower back pain in their lives. Learn about the root cause of lower back pain and why most treatments only deal with the symptoms and the pain instead of solving the problem, which often leads to even worse issues down the road. Fisher is an academic and researcher in the UK. He’s published research on muscular strengthening as well as lower back pain. Lowe

Jul 28, 2021 • 19:29

Muscle Burn Is Your Friend

Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan explain why that feeling of your muscles burning is exactly what you want to feel every time you go to the gym. Learn why muscle burn is one of the best indications that you’re exercising at the right intensity and without it, you won’t get the fitness results you’re looking for. The intensity of an exercise is crucial to achieving the fitness results you want, and the feeling of muscle burn is a positive indication of that intensity. Effective exercise is simply a st

Jul 21, 2021 • 16:10

How Strength Training Prevents and Reverses Pre-Diabetes

Amy and Brian break down the science behind pre-diabetes and how strength training is the most efficient and effective way to escape the negative feedback loop of insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, and weight gain. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, this information could change your life. Approximately 1 in 3 Americans are pre-diabetic, which increases their risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, and most people don’t even realize the

Jul 14, 2021 • 17:02

The World’s Smartest 20-Minute Workout

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy discuss the cutting edge technology that powers the Exercise Coach and makes it possible to deliver the world’s smartest 20-minute workout. Learn the secret to maximizing fitness results in the shortest time possible and how the Exerbotics technology makes exercise more fun and effective, while being more efficient at the same time. There are three things that make the workouts stand out at the Exercise Coach:

Jul 7, 2021 • 40:33

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to the table. Nearly 85% of the population is not eng

Jun 30, 2021 • 33:13

The Exercise Coach Came Out of 2020 Strong, Here’s Why

Amy and Jesse Hudson explore the reasons the Exercise Coach saw phenomenal growth over the past 18 months while other fitness brands struggled to stay open. Learn about the key differences in the business model that make the Exercise Coach a great franchise to open, and why the community of franchisees that support one another is the secret ingredient to franchise success. Jesse is the National Franchise Director for the Exercise Coach. His job is to work with franchise candidates and educating

Jun 23, 2021 • 26:16

Free Weights vs. Machines: Which One Is Better?

Amy and Brian settle the age-old debate of which one is better: free weights or machines? Learn about some common misconceptions about machines that prevent people from getting the fitness results they want in the timeframe they want, and why free weights can lead to reduced strength gains and a higher risk of injury. Spoiler alert: You’re not going to find any free weights at any of the Exercise Coach locations and for good reason. There is a significant strength training advantage to using ma

Jun 16, 2021 • 16:03

What Makes Exerbotics So Effective?

Amy and Brian go into the science behind eccentric overload and why this little-understood movement is responsible for the incredible gains in strength Exercise Coach clients experience in their first six sessions. Find out what eccentric overload is and how to optimize your exercise so you can use more effort in less time, and see greater results. Eccentric training is well understood by research labs and high-level coaches but it’s not the most common idea for your average exerciser. It’s bui

Jun 9, 2021 • 16:47

The Science of Why Strength Changes Everything

Brian and Amy explore the scientific research that shows that strength training is the ultimate exercise for combatting the aging process, getting into the best shape of your life, and how those principles are applied to every workout session at the Exercise Coach. Over the past few months, Brian has been working on the Strength Changes Everything Scientific Support Paper. It has hundreds of scientific resources and is designed to help people dive deeper into the science of strength training. S

Jun 2, 2021 • 12:28

What is the Best Way to Lose Belly Fat?

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredible results that Exercise Coach clients can get, including reducing their belly fat, by joining the Metabolic Comeback Challenge.  A common goal for many people is to lose we

May 26, 2021 • 19:18

How Many Benefits To Strength Training Are There?

In the midst of preparing for the upcoming National Exercise Coach Conference, Brian and Amy play a game of trying to name as many benefits of strength as they possibly can without repeating themselves. As you would expect of something as important to your long-term health and performance as strength training, the ensuing list is ridiculously long and comprehensive. With the National Exercise Coach Conference approaching rapidly, Amy came up with a game to play on the podcast while Brian is bus

May 19, 2021 • 17:53

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 2

In part 2 of this interview, Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher discuss the science of strength and why the accepted wisdom of exercise may actually be causing more harm than good. Learn how many exercises you really need during a session, why “cardio” exercises aren’t necessary if you use the right level of effort, and how to keep yourself from getting injured by reducing the range of motion while still getting the fitness results you desire. Beyond the minimum exercise dose, you can add as many

May 12, 2021 • 32:21

The Science of Strength: Brian Cygan Interviews James Fisher, PhD - Part 1

Brian Cygan and Dr. James Fisher break down the science of strength and discuss what the proper level of resistance during training is, the threshold for the effort that you need to achieve to see results, and why some exercises are best avoided if you want to see optimal fitness benefits. Fisher is an exercise scientist in the UK and was a personal trainer for a number of years before becoming a researcher. His area of research was mainly lower back pain and lower back strength and has recentl

May 5, 2021 • 23:59

What Role Does Guidance Play in a Person's Ultimate Ability to Achieve Their Desired Results From Exercise?

When it comes to fitness results, the key to rapid, positive changes is having a coach who  can give you the accountability and motivation you need to work harder and more effectively while still being safe. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss why supervision is the key to effective strength training, and how when that’s combined with the digital feedback at the Exercise Coach, you can achieve the fitness results you’ve always wanted.   It’s been said that the most forgotten variable in strength

Apr 28, 2021 • 17:38

Is There an Extra Benefit to Doing Pre-Exhaustion Sequences?

Amy and Brian explore the question “Should you pre-exhaust your muscles with isolation exercises before taking on compound movements?” Find out why the idea of the pre-exhaustion sequence is actually hurting your fitness progress and why putting compound exercises at the very beginning of your exercise program is the key to getting the most results in the shortest amount of time. Pre-exhaustion is the idea that performing an isolation exercise prior to a compound exercise is more effective in t

Apr 21, 2021 • 7:23

Multi-Joint vs. Single-Joint Strength Movements - Is One Better Than the Other?

Discover the secret to amplifying your total-body fitness results while also spending less time at  the gym. Find out why multi-joint movements can have a serious positive impact on your strength and physical fitness while taking less time to perform, as well as which exercise is the most effective movement in The Exercise Coach program. The aim of The Exercise Coach is to design workouts that are total body focused, safe, and effective while also maximizing workout motivation and consistent ad

Apr 14, 2021 • 11:04

The Optimal Exercise Program For Maximal Results in Minimal Time

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian and Amy break down some of the most common misconceptions around exercise and reveal how Exercise Coach clients are getting maximal results from only a couple 20-minute workouts each week. Learn the three most important aspects of exercise and why you need to think about exercise completely differently if you want to achieve the health and fitness results you want. The manner in which we exercise really matters because

Apr 7, 2021 • 43:02

The Origin Story of the Exercise Coach and Why Strength Changes Everything

We are replaying one of our most popular episodes for you this week!   Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal the origin story of the Exercise Coach and the one book that completely changed the trajectory of Brian’s life by transforming his understanding of what strength training can do in your life and how quickly you can see results. Find out how the Exercise Coach is changing lives 20 minutes at a time. The goal of the Strength Changes Everything podcast is to inspire and empower people to live l

Mar 31, 2021 • 22:11

Should I Stretch Before or After a Strength Training Session?

Before you jump into your next exercise session, learn why what you’ve been told about stretching is completely wrong and how it can actually increase the odds of you getting injured. Brian and Amy explore some common myths regarding stretching before and after exercise and discuss whether or not stretching is a necessary component of strength training. Do you need to stretch before you work out? There are a lot of prevailing myths around stretching and exercise and people are usually coming at

Mar 24, 2021 • 15:50

Is It Safe to Wear a Mask While Exercising?

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about whether or not wearing a mask during exercise is a safe thing to do. Amy and Brian breakdown the studies and science behind wearing a mask and oxygen intake, and reveal why The Exercise Coach program makes wearing a mask a minor detail in the pursuit of fitness results. Covid has made wearing a mask much more common but a lot of people are wondering if it’s okay to wear a mask while exercising. At the beginning of the pande

Mar 17, 2021 • 12:03

Do Smart Scales Actually Work?

Brian and Amy discuss the pros and cons of a smart scale and how using one properly can help you stay motivated and on track to hit your fitness goals. You will also learn how to avoid one of the most common mistakes people make with a smart scale that can derail them in the first few weeks of their fitness journey. What is a smart scale and how are they different? The major difference is the measurement of body composition and the connectivity of the associated apps. These kinds of scales allo

Mar 10, 2021 • 16:40

What Kind of Weight Bearing Exercise is Best for Osteoporosis?

Learn why strength training is the foundation to rebuilding bone strength and bone density and why osteoporosis isn’t a permanent sentence. Amy and Brian break down the research around bone density and strength training, what exercises you should do to strengthen the most vulnerable parts of your body, and what exercises you should avoid completely.  Many people are recommended to engage in weight bearing exercise to help deal with the effects of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis and osteopenia affect

Mar 3, 2021 • 14:53

Is Twice Per Week Really Often Enough?

One of the most common questions we get at the Exercise Coach is “Is exercising twice a week really often enough?” Listen in as Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson explore why whole effort exercise twice a week is not only enough, it’s the optimal amount you need to achieve the best fitness results for your body in the shortest amount of time possible. Exercising twice a week is more than enough. In fact, exercising more often can actually be counterproductive. The most important thing you can do as you

Feb 24, 2021 • 10:27

Does Muscle Really Weigh More Than Fat?

Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the age-old question of whether muscle really weighs more than fat and why the number on the scale can be very misleading when you’re trying to improve your health and fitness. When many people start a strength training program, they look at their body composition and may wonder whether muscle is heavier than fat. The accurate answer is that muscle is more dense than fat. When people say that muscle weighs more than fat, what’s really being communicated is

Feb 17, 2021 • 7:21

Is 20 Minutes Really Long Enough?

Amy Hudson and Brian Cygan reveal the truth behind the fitness industry and why you don’t need to spend hours at the gym every week in order to stay fit and healthy. Learn the science behind the 20-minute workout and how you can achieve optimal health benefits by doing the right workout, for the right length of time, just twice a week. Is 20 minutes long enough to have a great workout? Simply put, absolutely. The training at the Exercise Coach is targeting the root cause of usual aging which is

Feb 10, 2021 • 8:57

What is the Best Way to Lose Belly Fat?

Six-pack abs are what most people think of when they think fitness goals, but how hard is it really to get that washboard stomach and lose the stubborn belly fat? Brian and Amy bust the most common myths around losing belly fat and talk about the incredible results that Exercise Coach clients can get, including reducing their belly fat, by joining the Metabolic Comeback Challenge.  A common goal for many people is to lose weight, specifically belly fat. There are two motivations that drive this

Feb 3, 2021 • 19:18

Is High-Intensity Strength Training Safe For Seniors Too?

Is it safe for seniors to perform high intensity strength training? The question is actually “is it safe for them not to?” Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson discuss the science behind strength training and why high intensity, whole effort exercise is one of the best ways to prevent the ill effects of aging, even if you are afraid of your joint pain or heart issues holding you back. A number of people are curious whether strength training is an appropriate exercise for them, especially as they get olde

Jan 27, 2021 • 18:35

Can I Get Strong Without Getting Bulky?

Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson break down the science of strength training and discuss why you don’t have to worry about getting bulky from exercise, and why strength training is the most effective way to get that toned, lean body you always wanted. Will two 20-minute workouts a week help someone get toned? According to the scientific definition, toneness refers to the level of tension in a muscle at rest, but most people refer to being toned as being lean. In that regard, strength training will ab

Jan 20, 2021 • 12:07

What about Cardio? - Part 3: Training For Sports Performance vs Training For Cardiovascular Health

Is strength training enough for longevity and quality of life? That’s the question Brian and Dr. James Fisher explore in the final episode of the What About Cardio? series. Learn about the difference between how athletes and the average person train and why achieving high levels of sports performance and everyday fitness are not accomplished the same way. Can strength training and whole food nutrition be enough to transform someone’s fitness results? Where does cardio fit into fitness and sport

Jan 13, 2021 • 15:15

What about Cardio? - Part 2: Fat Loss vs. Weight Loss, and How to Stay Strong and Lean Even as You Age

In part 2 of this series with Dr. James Fisher, Brian and James discuss the downsides of cardio and why so many people can’t seem to resist binging after cardio exercise. Learn why cardio is important and useful when done right, and how it can lead to even worse health outcomes if not done properly. While improving heart health is great, it’s not everyone’s goal when exercising or doing cardio. Weight loss is another major focus and cardio can certainly help accomplish that. When doing cardio a

Jan 6, 2021 • 16:12

What about Cardio? - Part 1: Is It Possible To Improve Your Heart Health Without Doing Traditional Cardio Exercise?

Dr. James Fisher answers the question once and for all, do we really need to do exercises like running, cycling, and swimming to improve our cardio? Find out the truth about cardio exercises and cardiovascular health and why you should get off the treadmill and start doing resistance training right now. The fundamental question is “What is cardio?” Even people who have seen the results of the 20-minute routines delivered by the Exercise Coach still wonder what place cardio has in physical fitne

Dec 30, 2020 • 23:07

The World’s Smartest 20-Minute Workout

Brian and Amy discuss the cutting edge technology that powers the Exercise Coach and makes it possible to deliver the world’s smartest 20-minute workout. Learn the secret to maximizing fitness results in the shortest time possible and how the Exerbotics technology makes exercise more fun and effective, while being more efficient at the same time. There are three things that make the workouts stand out at the Exercise Coach: the workouts are based on the best science, use the best technology, an

Dec 16, 2020 • 40:33

Why Muscle Quality Matters More Than Movement Quantity

Learn about why systemic inflammation is known as the silent killer, why inflammation creates a vicious cycle that very few people escape as they get older, and how you can be one of the few who do. Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal why muscle quality matters more than movement quantity and how strength training for 20 minutes at a time will transform your life, no matter how old you are. Muscle quality matters more than movement quantity. Standard workouts and guidelines in fitness are respons

Dec 9, 2020 • 23:50

The Biggest Reasons People Can’t Stick To The Traditional Exercise Program

Brian and Amy dig into the top five reasons why people can’t begin or stick with the average fitness program and why those barriers don’t exist over at the Exercise Coach. Learn what’s holding you back from making strength training a regular part of your life and why the Exercise Coach paradigm may be right for you no matter how old you are or what fitness level you bring to the table. Nearly 85% of the population is not engaging in meaning and regular exercise. Conventional exercise guidelines

Dec 2, 2020 • 33:13

The Optimal Exercise Program For Maximal Results in Minimal Time

Brian and Amy break down some of the most common misconceptions around exercise and reveal how Exercise Coach clients are getting maximal results from only a couple 20-minute workouts each week. Learn the three most important aspects of exercise and why you need to think about exercise completely differently if you want to achieve the health and fitness results you want. The manner in which we exercise really matters because what’s at stake is significant. Exercise is a strategy that people can

Nov 25, 2020 • 43:02

The Origin Story of the Exercise Coach and Why Strength Changes Everything

Brian Cygan and Amy Hudson reveal the origin story of the Exercise Coach and the one book that completely changed the trajectory of Brian’s life by transforming his understanding of what strength training can do in your life and how quickly you can see results. Find out how the Exercise Coach is changing lives 20 minutes at a time. The goal of the Strength Changes Everything podcast is to inspire and empower people to live life at their full physical potential. Simply put: strength changes ever

Nov 17, 2020 • 22:11