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Curious about the secret to staying youthful and active well into your 60s? Discover it through the vibrant athletic journey of Frank Collins, an operations manager and pickleball enthusiast who shares his love for racquet sports. With memories of sibling rivalry fueling his competitive spirit, Frank's stories reveal how engaging in sports can not only extend your lifespan but also attract a diverse community of players of all ages. Whether you're 30 or 80, the pickleball court has a place for you.

Let's talk about the unexpected benefits of exercise, from surprising strength gains in later life to the profound social connections that develop through shared sweat and effort. Our discussions highlight the unique bond formed at the gym between a father and his son, and we tackle the real-life challenges of maintaining health amidst work travels. With personal anecdotes about managing type 2 diabetes and overcoming weight gain, the conversation sheds light on how regular exercise boosts not just physical health but confidence and social skills too.

From the camaraderie found in competitive cornhole games to the thrill of social pickleball matches, this episode underscores the importance of building community through fitness and sports. We explore how maintaining an active lifestyle can enhance reaction time and leg strength, contributing to a healthier, longer life. With stories full of humor and candid reflections, we emphasize the crucial role of physical fitness, alongside the perils of overindulgence in supplements and energy drinks, in ensuring well-being as we age. Join us for an engaging look at how lifestyle choices shape our health and happiness.

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Prepare for an extraordinary journey into the world of stone lifting with our special guest, the legendary Sean Urquhart. Known for his prowess in strongman competitions, Sean shares his incredible adventures from the Columbus Oktoberfest event to his ambitions of conquering the Hussafell Stone in Iceland. Through laughter and insightful stories, we tap into the camaraderie and community spirit that make strength sports such a captivating pursuit.

Unlock the secrets to mastering stone lifting as we discuss innovative training techniques that draw inspiration from the Highland Games. Our conversation explores the transformative power of a Westside Barbell training split, which challenges both mind and body with its heavy and speed days. Together, we celebrate the raw power of natural stones, the vital role of the posterior chain, and the unwavering family support that turns a garage into a stone lifter's paradise.

Embark on a global adventure as we explore the rich cultural tapestry of stone lifting traditions across the world. From the volcanic landscapes of Iceland and Sweden to the historic stones of Lockport, New York, each story is a testament to the passion and dedication of the stone-lifting community. We blend family vacation anecdotes with historic quests, adding a humorous twist to our tales. Join us for a fascinating exploration of human strength, cultural heritage, and the delightful charm of local treasures like Grandpa's Cheese Barn.

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What does it take to thrive as a masters athlete, especially when you're past 40? Join us in a lively conversation with our special guests, Marc and Dominic, also known as Gimli, who uncover the secrets behind a fulfilling athletic life beyond the prime years. Dominic shares his unique transition from martial arts to the Highland Games, narrating the unexpected thrill of his first caber turn, thanks to the mentorship of John Katalinas. Their stories are a testament to the camaraderie and community spirit that propel us to overcome personal hurdles and achieve our fitness dreams.

The vibrant world of the Highland Games comes alive as we explore the balance between competition and celebration. Laughter and support go hand in hand as we recount amusing anecdotes like the Hercules Hold at Oktoberfest, illustrating how a supportive community can transform even the toughest challenges into joyous memories. Marc shares the unforgettable experience of completing a grueling task with the encouragement of his peers, highlighting the unique bonds that form through shared trials, lighthearted teasing, and mutual growth.

As we touch on health considerations for older athletes, from medication use to muscle maintenance, we emphasize the power of resilience. The journey of restarting fitness routines after setbacks is filled with insights, including small steps like post-dinner walks. We also dive into the ambitious goals within our community, like lifting the legendary Husafell stone in Iceland. With a nod to the illustrious achievements of older athletes like Odd Haugen, we celebrate the strength of community, the excitement of setting personal milestones, and the joy of pursuing physical challenges, all while staying active and inspired.

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CrossFit coach extraordinaire Natalie Rankine joins us on an empowering journey into the world of masters athletes, defying stereotypes and proving that age is no barrier to fitness. With her deep expertise, Natalie enlightens us about the unique motivations and challenges faced by older athletes who begin their fitness journey later in life. From health scares to the quest for longevity, we uncover the stories of courage and determination that inspire these athletes to embrace a healthier lifestyle against all odds.

We dive into the personal narratives of athletes living with type 2 diabetes, exploring how physical activity becomes an essential part of their health management. Natalie shares her coaching wisdom, emphasizing the transformative power of strength training, especially for women. We celebrate incredible successes, like Brian's progression from struggling with a sit-up to becoming a steadfast gym-goer, and explore how scaling workouts and community support play crucial roles in fostering an inclusive and motivating gym environment.

This episode also highlights the diverse backgrounds of athletes in our masters conditioning program, emphasizing the blend of former Olympic weightlifters and first-time exercisers. The stories of Randy, Karen, and others reveal the humor, perspective, and resilience that help older athletes redefine their fitness goals. We discuss the importance of embracing discomfort for personal growth and how a supportive community can be the backbone of fitness success. Join us as we promote a practical fitness approach, encouraging older adults to maintain their independence and confidence through dedicated physical activity.

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Ever wonder if your go-to protein bar is secretly a sugar trap? Join us as we promise to uncover the truth behind these so-called health snacks. Scott Fike and I, John Katalinas, embark on a spirited taste-test journey through the colorful world of protein bars. From Gorilla Bar to Built Puff Bars and even meat-based options, we critique the good, the bad, and the sugary pitfalls. With Scott's emphasis on taste and dietary restrictions and my scientific approach focusing on protein and carbs, our candid discussions are packed with humor and insightful banter that will leave you questioning your own protein bar choices.

Our exploration doesn't stop with conventional flavors. We indulge in the more unusual offerings from Legendary Foods, which invoke nostalgic memories of pop tarts and cinnamon rolls, and the exciting flavors from One Bar, like blueberry cobbler and maple donut. The conversation gets heated over the Pure Protein chocolate peanut butter caramel bar, as we debate its candy-bar-like taste despite its impressive macros. From plant-based options like No Cow's Chocolate Fudge Brownie to the gold-standard Quest bars, we analyze the balance between taste, nutritional value, and availability, all in the pursuit of the perfect protein snack.

Finally, we invite you to weigh in on our protein bar adventures. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or simply a snack lover, we want to hear your recommendations and critiques as we wrap up our taste-test quest. Let's connect on social media to continue the conversation, share your thoughts, and maybe even discover the next big thing in protein bars. Thanks for joining us, and remember to stay active, curious, and always on the lookout for a better bar!

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Riccardo Magni's journey from the basketball court to the grip contest arena is nothing short of extraordinary. As president of Armlifting USA, he brings a wealth of experience and resilience to our discussion, sharing how he thrived in sports beyond 40 despite facing significant health challenges. From his early days as a track and field athlete to his remarkable discovery of passion in individual sports at the 2014 San Jose Fit Expo, Riccardo highlights the empowering nature of controlling one’s athletic destiny. His story of adaptability and tenacity serves as a beacon of inspiration for athletes of any age.

Riccardo’s tale is also one of immense personal resilience, showcasing his recovery from a major heart attack and stroke. Despite these setbacks, his unwavering spirit saw him through rehabilitation and an era of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. This episode dives into the surprising phenomenon of angiogenesis and the contrasting medical opinions he faced, underscoring the mental fortitude necessary to overcome significant health challenges. Through gratitude, reflection, and perseverance, Riccardo's journey reframes adversity as an opportunity for growth, offering listeners a source of comfort and motivation in their own challenges.

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In this episode, you'll get to hear our personal wish lists as we explore the world of gifting for masters athletes, where humor meets practicality in a festive setting. From essentials to quirky items, we've got you covered with ideas that will not only entertain but also enhance your athletic prowess.

Ever wondered how a simple sniff could supercharge your workout? We unravel the mystery of Zone Smelling Salts, a surprisingly potent training tool that has an unforgettable story attached from the Arnold Sports Festival. Posture perfection might sound like a dream, but with our recommended tools, it's more achievable than ever. Discover the bow tie posture corrector—a game-changer for countering those bad habits we picked up during the pandemic. We also delve into the Big Ray Strap, a genius alternative to inversion tables that provides relief for back discomfort. And let's not forget the unsung hero of muscle recovery: the foam roller. We'll provide tips on choosing the right firmness for optimal results, ensuring you or your loved ones can enjoy improved flexibility and wellness.

Fitness meets travel in our exploration of apps and recovery tools that elevate your lifestyle. Whether you're a masters athlete looking to boost your performance with Great Ape Grips or a road trip enthusiast eager to enhance your journey with the Guide Along app, there's something here for everyone. On the tech side, we discuss Strava, Lose It, and Headspace, offering innovative ways to track, manage, and meditate your way to better health. Finally, we highlight the power of infrared saunas and massage guns in recovery, providing you with the ultimate guide to maintaining peak physical condition. Join us for an episode packed with fun and functional gift ideas that promise to enrich your life.

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What if you could reignite your athletic passion after a major life setback? Discover the transformative power of relentless support and friendship in our latest episode of the Masters Athlete Survival Guide. We sit down with Dr. Charles Infurna, an expert in education and executive leadership, who shares his incredible journey of motivating John Katalinas to return to athletics post-divorce. Dr. Charles's unwavering dedication, from providing gear and transportation to fostering an accidental team dynamic in track and field, offers a poignant look at how camaraderie in sports can lead to profound personal growth and lasting friendships.

In a segment that truly highlights the impact of coaching, we delve into the innovative methods of Judd Logan, a four-time Olympian in the hammer throw. Learn how Logan turned Ashland University into a unique Olympic training hub, offering housing, health insurance, and meal plans to post-collegiate throwers. Through the inspiring story of AG Kruger, who rose from a Division II National Champion to an Olympic athlete under Logan's guidance, we underscore the critical role of coaches in reigniting an athlete's potential. Additionally, we discuss the importance of having a coach for masters athletes, illustrated by a personal anecdote involving an Olympic distance triathlon.

Balancing training with personal responsibilities and physical limitations is no easy feat, especially as athletes age. Dr. Charles provides valuable insights into realistic goal-setting and the financial and time commitments required for coaching. He also highlights the evolving motivations of athletes, emphasizing the value of community and the importance of staying healthy. Through stories of athletes like Luis Rivera, Dr. Charles champions a coaching philosophy that prioritizes supportive relationships over performance metrics, culminating in the release of the inspiring new book, "The Throwing Circle." Tune in to explore how modern coaching techniques can help athletes of all ages and stages achieve their dreams.

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New episodes come out every other Thursday!