The Fitness Lounge

So, maybe you've heard about macros and that you should "count them". You might have even heard some catchy tagline like "If It Fits In My Macros" while referencing a bowl of ice cream with Oreos and gummy worms sprinkled on top. But what are "macros"? And why should you be concerned with them? Nick and Ben clear the air about what macros are and how they impact your nutrition. Whether you're looking to lose body fat or put on lean muscle, knowing the answers to those questions will help you achieve your goal and stay there. 

Have you ever been told that doing cardio exercises causes you to lose muscle? While that can be a true statement, it is also true that there are certain types of cardio that can contribute to muscle growth. Nick and Ben cover the different ways in which doing cardio can help you put on lean muscle mass. It may be time to rethink how you approach cardio in your workouts.

With all the different types of protein powders on the market, which one is right for you? And more importantly, when should you take it to get optimal results? Nick and Ben get gritty with the details you need to supercharge your protein shakes.

We've all been told at one point or another "Carbs are bad!" But are they? Surely that statement can't be all false. Are there such things as good carbs? Can "junk" carbs still have some benefit to them? Nick and Ben get a little gritty with this topic so that you have a better understanding of how and when to use carbs to get to your goal.

Whether you're new to the gym or have been attending for years, there are certain behaviors that are and aren't acceptable. More than likely, you (just like us) have been guilty of at least one of these taboo acts. Relax and enjoy, as Nick and Ben bring you a comical look at what not to do while in the gym.

When it comes to muscle and body fat, your body has a specific way of handling them. The 3 body types are designed as a means to help you understand how each one fares in those two areas of tissue growth and loss. Understanding which body type you are is like having a road map for your journey: without it you may never arrive at your destination. Nick and Ben dive into each body type so that you can have clarity as to how you should approach muscle growth and fat management.

How in the world can negative be positive? When it comes to lifting weights, the "negative" is your greatest opportunity for muscle growth. Nick and Ben dive into the reasons why this is, and why you should emphasize more time in this portion of the lift. We don't pay to watch a movie and leave halfway through. So why go to the gym only to get half the benefits of your time spent their?

Is there a difference between training strictly for strength and training strictly for size? How do you know if your training routine is the correct path to your desired destination? Nick and Ben break down the fundamental differences between resistance training to increase strength and training to see muscle growth.

So you've been told you should be taking supplements. Cool. But which ones? Many aren't cheap and there are so many out there that it can be daunting to figure out what you should take. Nick and Ben lay out the supplements they recommend and which ones they put less emphasis on. 

Have you ever considered using a personal trainer? Not sure if it's the right time? Is it worth the cost? How do you select the right one for you? Nick and Ben bring you their own trainer, Jay Manley. Jay lays out some insights as to how and when you should approach the implementation of a trainer in your fitness journey.