Michael Wood, CSCS

Strength & Conditioning Plan for H.S. and College Football Players

Football players require a balanced approach to strength and conditioning that enhances performance on the field and reduces the risk of injury. High school and college athletes have unique needs compared to professionals due to ongoing physical development, competition demands, and their level of training experience. Designing a sport-specific plan should integrate strength, power, speed, […]

Strength & Conditioning Plan for H.S. and College Football Players Read More »

Best Protein Sources for Bodybuilders and Gym-Goers

Nutrition Tips / Michael Wood, CSCS

Building muscle and achieving optimal fitness requires a well-rounded nutrition plan, with protein playing a key role. Whether you’re a bodybuilder aiming for hypertrophy or a gym-goer looking to maintain lean muscle mass, your dietary protein choices can make or break your success. The timing of your protein intake, as well as the quality and

Best Protein Sources for Bodybuilders and Gym-Goers Read More »

Forearm Plank vs. Straight Arm Plank: EMG Comparison

Exercise Tips / Michael Wood, CSCS

The plank is a fundamental core exercise used by beginners, elite athletes and gym-goers alike. Two of the more common variations are the forearm plank and the straight arm plank. Both exercises appear similar but activate muscles differently. Note, the straight arm plank is also referred to as extended arm plank. In this article, we’ll

Forearm Plank vs. Straight Arm Plank: EMG Comparison Read More »

Optimize Fitness: AI, Hormones, & Gut Health for Better Workouts

Nutrition Tips / Michael Wood, CSCS

As we enter the fourth quarter of 2024, three of the hottest trends, most often discussed, in the fitness industry are: gut health, artificial intelligence (AI), and hormonal health. Let’s take a deeper look at them and break down each one in order to help you better understand their nuances. Rise of AI and Wearable

Optimize Fitness: AI, Hormones, & Gut Health for Better Workouts Read More »

Strength Training: 15 Important Facts About Muscle

General Fitness / Michael Wood, CSCS

The human body is a marvel, especially when it comes to its muscular system. Strength training plays a vital role in not only building muscle but also improving overall health and activities of daily living (aka ADL’s).

Strength Training: 15 Important Facts About Muscle Read More »

Best Dietary Protein Choices Post Workout Without Whey Protein

Nutrition Tips / Michael Wood, CSCS

When it comes to post-workout nutrition, the role of protein is critical for muscle repair and growth. While whey protein is often touted as the go-to choice for many athletes, there are numerous alternatives that can effectively promote muscle protein synthesis (MPS). This article explores the best food sources to consume after working out, based

Best Dietary Protein Choices Post Workout Without Whey Protein Read More »

5 Best Bodyweight Compound Exercises for Max Effectiveness

Exercise Tips / Michael Wood, CSCS

Bodyweight exercises are a staple of fitness routines, offering versatility and effectiveness without the need for equipment. Compound movements, which engage multiple muscle groups, are particularly beneficial as they maximize calorie burn, muscle activation, and functional strength.

5 Best Bodyweight Compound Exercises for Max Effectiveness Read More »

3, 4, 5, and 6-Day Split Strength Training: Which is Best for You?

General Fitness / Michael Wood, CSCS

Strength training has grown into an essential component of fitness for building muscle, enhancing performance, and promoting long-term health.

3, 4, 5, and 6-Day Split Strength Training: Which is Best for You? Read More »

Hawthorne Effect: Understanding Its Role in Exercise Apps

General Fitness / Michael Wood, CSCS

The Hawthorne Effect, a psychological phenomenon named after a series of studies conducted in the 1920’s and 1930’s at the Hawthorne Works in Chicago, has become a significant concept in various fields, including psychology, management, and health sciences.

Hawthorne Effect: Understanding Its Role in Exercise Apps Read More »

Plant-Based vs. Whey Proteins: Which is Better for You?

Nutrition Tips / Michael Wood, CSCS

In the world of fitness and nutrition, protein is a critical component for muscle growth, recovery, and overall health. The two most popular forms of protein supplementation are plant-based and whey proteins.

Plant-Based vs. Whey Proteins: Which is Better for You? Read More »