Iron Culture presented by MASS

Ep 377 – MRV/MAV, Diet Breaks & Refeeds 27.05.2026 1ó 12p

Back in episode 375, Helms and Trex briefly mentioned a few "evidence-based fitness" topics for which their views have evolved over the years. In hindsight, they didn't give a few of those topics the time, attention, and explanation they deserve. So in this episode, Helms and Trex take a closer look at two key topics: maximum recoverable (or adaptable) training volume, and various approaches to strategically manipulating leptin levels (such as refeeds and diet breaks). If you're in the market for some new (ultra-high-quality) gym gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount over at elitefts.com Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review. Mostly because Helms and Trex are co-owners. massresearchreview.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 04:11 The origins of MRV/MAV 07:08 Updated perspectives on MRV/MAV 14:26 Practically applying MRV/MAV 17:11 Helms' current volume adjustments 24:30 Updating models in science 29:20 The importance of leptin 32:42 The origins of Trex's interest in manipulating leptin 38:47 Running studies on diet breaks and refeeds 44:27 Recent meta-analysis on intermittent dieting strategies 50:19 Trex's current perspective on refeeds and diet breaks 53:47 Behavioral versus physiological effects 59:09 Contextual use of intermittent dieting 1:06:34 Wrapping up

Ep 376 - Weight Loss Resistance 20.05.2026 1ó 6p

Join us for a rare Iron Culture episode with co-hosts who are not only on the same continent, but actually in the same ROOM. Helms and Trexler are in Australia for the Sports Nutrition Association Annual Conference, so they got together to record an episode about Trex's presentation topic: resistance to weight loss. Specifically, why being a true "outlier" who is resistant to weight loss efforts is quite rare, particularly when looking at the energy expenditure side of the equation. If you're in the market for some new (ultra-high-quality) gym gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount over at elitefts.com Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review. Mostly because Helms and Trex are co-owners. massresearchreview.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction 07:09 Tracking errors and energy absorption 22:21 Myths and realities related to medical conditions 50:48 Metabolic adaptation & exercise energy compensation 56:36 Weight loss friction as a spectrum

Ep 375 - Humility in Science 13.05.2026 53p

Join Drs Eric Helms and Eric Trexler as they discuss the importance of humility in science, and a few key areas where their perspectives have changed over the years. If you're in the market for some new (ultra-high-quality) gym gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount over at elitefts.com Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review. Mostly because Helms and Trex are co-owners. massresearchreview.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 13:11 The Iron Culture Documentary Release 18:03 Criticism and Public Perception 28:20 Intellectual Humility and Changing Perspectives 38:33 Evolving Views on Nutrition and Training

BONUS: Stronger Culture - The Protein Ceiling: Real or Not a Needle Mover? (ft Eric Helms & Steve Hall) 06.05.2026 1ó 12p

Join Steve Hall and Eric Helms as they explore the nuances of bodybuilding, nutrition, and training strategies. From caffeine timing and body composition tracking to posing techniques and mental models, this conversation offers practical insights for athletes and enthusiasts aiming to optimize their performance and physique. Iron Culture is presented by the MASS Research Review massresearchreview.com If you're in the market for some new gym gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Morning Rituals: Caffeine Choices and Preferences 02:43 Caffeine Cycling: Strategies for Bodybuilding Performance 05:19 Caffeine and Sleep: Finding the Right Balance 08:27 Diet Sodas: The Hidden Caffeine Dilemma 10:52 Navigating Post-Show Eating: The Recovery Phase 13:53 Protein Intake: Debating the Optimal Amount 16:45 Training vs. Nutrition: Prioritizing Muscle Gain 19:26 Understanding Protein Recommendations: Context Matters 22:17 The Importance of Training Intensity 25:06 Blue Light Blockers: Effects on Sleep Quality 35:20 Blue Light Blockers and Sleep Quality 37:11 Body Weight and Recovery Insights 39:11 Stage Weight and Body Composition Changes 41:34 Tracking Progress: Measurements and Photos 45:10 The Importance of Posing in Bodybuilding 50:39 Online Coaching and Posing Techniques

Ep 374 - Processing, Palatability, and Bingeing 29.04.2026 1ó 25p

This episode begins with a slightly defensive rant by Eric Trexler, followed by a very defensive rant by Eric Helms. After that, they dive into new research uncovering the complexities of ultraprocessed foods, their impact on obesity, binge eating, and the food industry's role in creating and promoting hyperpalatable ultraprocessed foods. Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review (massresearchreview.com) If you're in the market for some high-quality gym gear or apparel, be sure to support our friends at elitefts.com and use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount. Chapters 00:00 Intro 10:14 Trexler & Helms respond to social media criticism 15:48 Slightly defensive rant by Trexler 23:10 Extremely defensive rant by Helms 32:25 Roles in The Ecosystem of Science Communication 41:39 Exploring the Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods 46:20 Understanding Ultra-Processed Foods and Their Nuances 51:16 The Role of Food Processing in Feeding a Growing Population 55:53 Hyper-Palatable Foods and Their Effects on Eating Behavior 59:07 The Evolution of Eating Disorder Treatment Perspectives 01:04:30 The Relationship Between Hyper-Palatable Foods and Binge Eating 01:09:05 Neurophysiology of Food Consumption and Addiction 01:12:20 Conclusions & practical applications for food selection

Ep 373 - Does Bone Predict Hypertrophy? 22.04.2026 1ó 30p

This episode begins with a discussion about the importance of scientific rigor in fitness research and science communication. After that, hosts Eric Trexler and Eric Helms discuss the relationship between skeletal structure and muscle growth, including whether or not your bone structure can predict how much muscle you gain in response to training or your maximum level of muscularity. Iron Culture is proudly presented by the MASS Research Review (massresearchreview.com) If you're in the market for some high-quality gym gear or apparel, be sure to support our friends at elitefts.com and use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount. Chapters 00:00 Intro 11:19 Expert Creep and Science Communication 21:22 Responsibly Expanding Your Domain of Expertise 31:42 Exploring Bone Structure and Muscle Growth 32:51 Study Overview: Bone Characteristics and Hypertrophy 41:13 Interpreting the results of a new study 47:50 Methodological nuances 58:30 Hypertrophy versus total muscularity 01:02:48 Finding the right sport for your frame and bone structure 01:12:23 Practical applications

Ep 372 - New ACSM Lifting Guidelines 15.04.2026 1ó 43p

In this episode, Eric Trexler and Eric Helms discuss the latest updates in resistance training research, the evolution of training principles since 2009, and practical applications for trainers and athletes. They explore key points from the new ACSM position stand, the importance of training frequency, volume, and specificity, and reflect on how scientific understanding has advanced over the years. In this engaging discussion, Eric Trexler and Eric Helms explore the evolution of training philosophies, hypertrophy research, and practical applications for lifters. They reflect on past training trends, dissect scientific findings, and share insights on optimizing workout strategies for strength and muscle growth. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" at elitefts.com for a 10% discount Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 07:37 The new ACSM Position Statement 17:50 Overview 34:47 Key findings 37:44 The Impact of Training Frequency on Strength 44:45 The Role of Volume in Strength Training 59:12 Training For Hypertrophy & Proximity to Failure 01:09:17 Eccentric Training 01:12:57 How Perspectives About Training to Failure Have Changed 01:19:08 The Role of Structured Training Programs 01:25:06 The Evolution of Fitness Communities 01:30:25 "Power Training" 01:39:05 Wrapping Up

Stronger Culture - The Mental Side of Bodybuilding Nobody Talks About 08.04.2026 1ó 11p

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Steve Hall & Eric Helms on supplement testing, polygraph use in bodybuilding, sleep optimization, and the power of acceptance in training and life. This episode offers practical insights for natural bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts looking to optimize health, performance, and mental resilience. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" at elitefts.com for a 10% discount Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 02:09 Understanding Supplementation and Third-Party Testing 08:04 Microplastics and Health Concerns 09:58 The Importance of Third-Party Testing for Competitors 15:59 The Risks of Supplements and Marketing Influence 21:56 Polygraphs in Natural Bodybuilding 30:06 Navigating False Positives in Polygraph Testing 37:11 The Stress of Competition and Polygraph Testing 38:45 Personal Struggles with Lifestyle Constraints 40:59 Sleep Quality Challenges and Optimization 43:41 Navigating Workload and Recovery 45:01 Injury Management and Training Adjustments 50:14 Mental Strategies for Performance and Recovery 58:56 Acceptance and Its Role in Bodybuilding and Life

Ep 371 - Popular Pseudoscience 01.04.2026 1ó 40p

In this episode, Eric Trexler and Eric Helms delve into the complexities of scientific research integrity, recent controversies in nutrition studies, and debunk common myths in health and fitness. They emphasize the importance of transparency, ethics, and critical thinking in science and everyday beliefs. In this episode, Eric Helms and Eric Trexler debunk popular myths in psychology, medicine, and animal behavior, exploring the science behind Stockholm syndrome, the hungry judge effect, stress ulcers, sugar hyperactivity, and the Stanford Prison Experiment. They emphasize critical thinking and scientific rigor in understanding complex topics. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" at elitefts.com for a 10% discount Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:23 Update on LDL Research Controversy 14:30 "Ethics" in the Research Context 26:45 Conspiratorial thinking and communication in science/research 29:45 Pop Science Myths and Misconceptions 39:25 Debunking Learning Styles 48:17 Debunking Stockholm Syndrome 1:02:04 Debunking the "Hungry Judges Study" 1:07:53 Stress Ulcers: The Complex Truth Behind a Common Belief 01:13:42 Debunking the "Sugar Rush" Myth 01:25:23 Other Popular Myths and Misconceptions

Ep 370 - Calories: Labels vs Reality 25.03.2026 1ó 8p

In this episode, Eric Helms and Eric Trexler explore the complexities of food labeling, energy absorption, and the impact of food choices on energy balance. They discuss a recent lawsuit against David protein bars, delve into scientific research on metabolizable energy, and practical strategies for dieting and food selection. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" at elitefts.com for a 10% discount Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Updates 08:16 The David Protein Bar Lawsuit 21:43 Labeling Complications and Nutritional Misunderstandings 25:25 The Impact of TEF, Fiber, and Resistant Starches 34:00 The Impact of the Specific Food Matrix 37:22 More Research on Dietary Intake Versus Absorption 40:06 Nuances Behind Calories In vs Calories Out 47:00 Tracking Variable Foods Versus Keeping Food Choices Consistent (IIFYM/Flexible Dieting Implications) 57:06 The Case for "Eating Clean" Within a Flexible Dieting Framework

Ep 369 - New Controversy in LDL Research 18.03.2026 1ó 18p

Editorial note: We recorded this episode on March 4. This is an important detail for contextualizing the timeline of events discussed in this episode, as well as our understanding of the matter at the time of recording. Since we recorded this episode, the paper discussed has been officially retracted. We will provide additional updates on this story as they become available. Episode summary: Join Eric Trexler and Eric Helms as they dissect the chaotic rollout of a controversial study on LDL cholesterol and lean mass hyper responders, explore issues in science communication, and debate the integrity of research in the age of social media. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use code "MRR10" at elitefts.com for a 10% discount Chapters 00:00 Intro 09:18 Social media dust-up 17:27 Revisiting the "Lean Mass Hyper Responder Study" 23:25 New controversy surrounding the study 33:14 Investigations regarding data integrity 41:43 Historical Context: NUSI and Its Implications 50:55 Steelmanning the argument 55:22 Potential issues with the "citizen science" movement 01:01:50 The death of expertise and the future of science communication

Iron Stronger - 1%er Habits The Best Do In Bodybuilding (with Eric Helms & Steve Hall) 11.03.2026 1ó 14p

In this episode, Steve Hall and Eric Helms discuss the evolution of their podcast, the importance of community feedback, and the dynamics of online culture. They delve into personality traits that influence social media behavior, the misconceptions surrounding pop science, and the significance of evidence-based practices in coaching and bodybuilding. Eric shares insights about his new role in academia and the responsibilities that come with it, while also exploring the 1% factors that can lead to success in bodybuilding. The conversation wraps up with a discussion on supplements, health practices, and the importance of being informed about one's health. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, please consider supporting our friends over at elitefts.com (and use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount!) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Naming the Podcast 02:48 The Psychology of Online Fitness Culture 05:39 Personality Traits and Social Media Engagement 08:05 Debunking Pop Psychology Myths 10:48 The Evolution of Online Coaching 13:49 Eric's New Role and Responsibilities 16:40 Leadership in Academia 19:22 The Structure of Academic Institutions 22:10 Reflections on Leadership and Responsibility 37:07 The Pursuit of the 1% in Bodybuilding 40:04 Training Philosophy and Personal Context 43:01 Evaluating Training Volume and Time Management 45:41 Investing in Muscle Growth: The Cost-Benefit Analysis 49:27 The Role of Supplements and Nutrition 55:39 Final Thoughts and Future Discussions

Ep 368 - Sheffield 2025 Champ Kjell Bakkelund 05.03.2026 1ó 19p

In this episode, powerlifter Kjell Bakkelund shares his journey, strategic weight management, and insights into longevity and performance in powerlifting. Discover how he overcame setbacks, optimized nutrition, and maintained motivation over a 19-year career. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, please be sure to support our friends and save some money by using code "MRR10" for a 10% discount at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction 07:57 The Weight Cut Experience and Its Challenges 15:07 Strategic Deception and Preparation for Sheffield 20:20 Reflections on Training and Dieting 25:29 Kjell's Competitive History and Evolution 37:10 Comparing Past and Present Strength Levels 44:09 The Turning Point: A Podium Decision 49:17 Nutrition and Performance: A Game Changer 56:41 Mindset Shifts: Embracing the Journey 01:02:11 The Importance of Flexibility in Dieting

Ep 367 - Q&A 27.02.2026 1ó 21p

In this episode, hosts Eric Trexler and Eric Helms explore a wide range of topics including the culture of bodybuilding, the impact of step counts on health, protein intake nuances, and the effects of various performance-enhancing drugs. They also address common misconceptions and recent research findings, providing practical insights for fitness enthusiasts and professionals alike. Be sure to support us (and our friends!) by using code "MRR10" for 10% off your order at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 05:26 Who can claim to be a "Bodybuilder" 14:35 Protein Intake and Muscle Protein Synthesis 25:39 Soy Intake and Its Effects on Hormones 31:10 Step count "limits" 39:44 Clarification related to soy intake 44:32 Trex research updates & Constrained Energy Expenditure Model 56:50 Exercise energy compensation: natural vs enhanced lifters 01:04:52 Hypertrophy and Proximity to Failure: Insights from Meta-Analysis

Ep 366 - New Studies: Long Muscle Lengths & Muscle Swelling 18.02.2026 1ó 16p

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Trexler and Eric Helms discuss perpetually hot topics in the fitness and bodybuilding community, focusing on recent research findings related to training at long muscle lengths and the implications of muscle swelling on hypertrophy reserach. They explore the nuances of lengthened bias training, the importance of sampling variance in research, and the impact of muscle swelling on hypertrophy measurements. If you're in the market for some new lifting gear or apparel, be sure to use discount code "MRR10" for a 10% discount at elitefts.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 04:39 Research Roundup: Lengthened Bias Training 07:20 Study Findings and Interpretations 10:24 Contextualizing Research in Fitness 13:53 Incremental Improvements in Research 17:10 Understanding Muscle Mechanics and Training Equipment 23:23 Sampling Variance and Its Impact on Research Interpretation 37:33 The Debate on Lengthened vs. Shortened Training 49:20 New Insights on Muscle Swelling and Hypertrophy 58:46 Understanding Muscle Performance and Recovery 01:03:39 The Debate on Training Volume and Hypertrophy 01:12:09 Wrapping up

Ep 365 - The Science Behind Toxic Online Fitness Culture 12.02.2026 1ó 7p

Have you noticed that real life fitness culture is awesome, but online fitness culture sucks? Yeah, us too. In this episode, the Erics discuss why toxic online fitness culture is the way it is, leaning on actual scientific research on which personality types are dictating discourse and driving engagement. The conversation ends with practical tips for strategically cultivating a better experience on social media platforms. By the way - are you in the market for some fitness gear or apparel? If so, head over to elitefts.com to support our friends and use code "MRR10" for a 10% discount. Chapters 00:00 Intro 6:58 IRL fitness versus online fitness 17:33 Personality traits and states; types of narcissism 21:51 Traits of influencers 32:00 Traits of frequent posters/users 35:44 How being on social media (transiently) changes personality states 44:45 Skepticism versus cynicism 54:51 Practical tips for strategically cultivating a better experience

BONUS - Confidence, Self-Doubt & Thinking Clearly in the Fitness Industry - Eric Helms & Steve Hall 02.02.2026 1ó 22p

In this episode, Eric Helms and Steve Hall engage in a deep conversation about their experiences in bodybuilding, academia, and personal growth. They discuss the challenges of naming their podcast, the impact of ADHD on Eric's life, and the importance of critical thinking in the fitness industry. The conversation also touches on the concept of imposter syndrome, the black-pilled perspective on muscle growth, and the significance of maintaining a positive mindset in training. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the value of process over outcome and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the pursuit of fitness goals. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount) Chapters 00:00 Podcast Naming Dilemma 03:04 Personal Reflections and Mutual Respect 06:03 Academic Journey and Self-Discovery 11:47 Understanding ADHD and Personal Growth 18:02 Imposter Syndrome and Its Impact 32:47 Critical Thinking in the Fitness Industry 37:54 The Importance of Self-Review 38:21 Confidence vs. Imposter Syndrome 40:16 Navigating Guru Culture in Fitness 42:22 Critical Thinking and the Role of Gurus 45:23 The Dangers of Blind Trust in Experts 48:17 The Mixed Bag of Fitness Influencers 49:42 Ego and the Quest for Clout 51:39 Teaching Critical Thinking in Fitness 53:32 The Journey of Personal Growth 57:16 Debating Natural Muscle Growth Potential 01:01:23 Understanding Individual vs. Population Data 01:06:05 The Optimistic Bodybuilder's Mindset 01:10:49 Pushing Limits and Personal Growth 01:15:13 The Process Over Outcome Mindset 01:20:54 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

Ep 364 - The Evolution of Physical Culture (ft. Dr. Conor Heffernan) 27.01.2026 1ó 11p

In this episode of Iron Culture, Dr. Eric Helms and Dr. Conor Heffernan delve into the rich history of fitness and physical culture, exploring how exercise has evolved globally and the impact of historical figures on modern fitness paradigms. They discuss the globalization of exercise practices, the marketing strategies that have persisted since the 1890s, and the importance of understanding fitness history to inform current practices. The conversation emphasizes the interplay between science and history in fitness, encouraging listeners to be curious and explore the past to enhance their understanding of the present and future of fitness. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back 03:07 The Evolution of Fitness and Physical Culture 05:50 Exploring Globalization in Fitness 09:02 The Concept of a Global Body 12:13 Historical Context of Fitness Practices 15:04 The Marketing of Fitness Through History 17:57 The Role of Historical Context in Modern Fitness 20:59 The Innate Human Desire for Strength 23:59 The Impact of Industrialization on Fitness 26:51 The Controversies in Fitness History 30:00 The Future of Fitness and Historical Lessons 35:49 The Intersection of Science and Tradition in Fitness 38:11 Understanding Historical Context in Bodybuilding 40:29 The Evolution of Fitness Standards Over Time 42:25 The Fluidity of Fitness: Adapting to Change 48:13 The Role of Equipment in Shaping Training Outcomes 53:12 Exploring Alternative Paths in Fitness History 01:01:37 The Specialization Era: A Double-Edged Sword 01:06:18 Curiosity and Engagement in Fitness History

Ep 363 - What Everyone's Getting Wrong About New Dietary Guidelines 21.01.2026 1ó 45p

In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and Eric Trexler discuss the recent changes to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) and the implications of these updates. They begin by addressing the shift in their podcast schedule, emphasizing the importance of mental health and balance in their work. The conversation then transitions into a detailed analysis of the new dietary guidelines, highlighting the complexities of the process behind their formulation. Helms critiques the influence of corporate interests and the political landscape on the DGAs, while also acknowledging the positive aspects of the new recommendations, particularly the increased emphasis on protein intake. The hosts explore the historical context of dietary guidelines, the evolution of public health messaging, and the challenges of effectively communicating nutritional advice to the public. In this episode, Eric Helms and MASS Research delve into the complexities of the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs), discussing the implications of the visual representation of food groups and the recommendations for protein, fats, and processed foods. They critique the new guidelines for their lack of clarity and potential confusion, particularly regarding the emphasis on whole foods versus processed foods. The conversation highlights the disconnect between the written guidelines and their visual representation, which may mislead the public about healthy eating patterns. They also explore the political influences on these guidelines and how they may affect vulnerable populations, particularly in school lunch programs and social assistance programs. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount) Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Schedule Changes 07:15 The Dietary Guidelines Controversy 20:56 Understanding the Formation of Dietary Guidelines 32:30 The Influence of Food Industries on Guidelines 33:38 The Role of the Second Committee 43:49 Changes in Protein Recommendations 44:19 The Inverted Pyramid and Dietary Miscommunication 59:55 Understanding Fats in the New Guidelines 01:09:17 The Role of Full-Fat Dairy in Heart Health 01:15:06 Alcohol Consumption: New Guidelines Explained 01:21:52 Processed Foods and Public Health Implications 01:25:03 The Impact of Dietary Guidelines on Vulnerable Populations 01:30:34 Conclusions and Future Directions in Nutrition Guidelines

Ep 362 - WNBF Champ Shreenath Ganesh 12.01.2026 1ó 8p

In this episode, Eric Helms interviews Shreenath Ganesh, the inaugural world champion in the short classic physique division at the WNBF Worlds. They discuss Shreenath's journey from India to becoming a champion, the rise of natural bodybuilding in India, the challenges faced by athletes, and the cultural perspectives surrounding bodybuilding. Shreenath shares his aspirations to promote natural bodybuilding and uplift fellow athletes in his community, emphasizing the importance of delayed gratification and hard work in achieving success. If you're in the market for some lifting gear or apparel, be sure to check out EliteFTS.com (and use our code "MRR10" for a 10% discount) Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the New Classic Physique Champion 02:49 Shreenath's Journey to Becoming a World Champion 06:08 The Rise of Natural Bodybuilding in India 08:58 Challenges and Triumphs in Bodybuilding 11:55 Cultural Perspectives on Bodybuilding in India 15:01 Future Aspirations and Goals for Natural Bodybuilding 17:56 Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey