I am a big fan of the materials that come from Renaissance Periodization (https://renaissanceperiodization.com/). While I have not used the diet and training templates (Let’s be truthful. I am just not motivated enough to diet the way I would need to get really lean.), they are effective. I am, however, a regular consumer of their e-books and Facebook materials. The latest book, How Much Should I Train?, by Drs. Mike Israetel and James Hoffman, does not disappoint.
The company is science-based. Everything they say or write is backed by science. If they are speculating, they say so and base their inferences on the available science and a wealth of experience.
Central to the theme of the book are concepts such as “maximum recoverable volume” (MRV), “minimum effective volume” (MEV), and “maximum adaptive volume” (MAV). These are concepts anyone who is training to make gains (and why would you not want to make gains?) needs to understand and apply. The authors consider the effects of genetics, gender, muscle fiber type, goals, and the like on the appropriate training volume.
My only disappointment with the book is that “opportunity costs” is not mentioned explicitly. (I am kidding here, of course.) The idea, however, runs throughout the book. Dr. Israetel inspired my use—my students might say “overuse”—or the phrase, though he has never stated it explicitly.
No matter who we are, we battle with managing time to train and recover. For the coach, athlete, and anyone who wants to get the most out of their exercise, this is a must-read. Training is not as simple as showing up to the gym for a prescribed “WOD”. Effective exercise is highly individualized. Personally, I don’t have time to waste.
Check out How Much Should I Train, available on the Renaissance Periodization website (linked above) for $27 (hurry while it is still at this reduced rate!). It is science-based, but the writing style is relaxed and accessible for even the beginning lifter. Chances are that you are not exercising as effectively as you can (at your MAV). You owe it to yourself to get the most out of your exercise.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow!
Carpe momento!