#553: BMI vs Muscle, the Aesthetics of Fitness, & Deload Weeks For Recovery

Should you train for how you look, or how long you live? We’re unpacking the research on BMI vs muscle for longevity, the body image tug-of-war many women face when it comes to aesthetics in fitness, and how to know if you need a deload week. Plus, we cover the surprising nutrient depletions that can happen with medications like birth control and SSRIs.

Timestamps:

[1:50] Welcome

[3:13] Study whether muscle mass index helps you actually lives longer

[10:08] I sometimes struggle to balance the aesthetic side of strength training (wanting to look fit) and the longevity side of strength training (wanting to be healthy). How do you both think about strength training as women in a culture that pushes us towards body ideals and how can we shift our motivation so it’s less about appearance and more about health and independence long -term? 

[22:24] Can you talk about deload weeks vs rest weeks? How do you manage mindset and guilt? Can you discuss nutrient depletion around medications and should you supplement? 

[40:15] Do I need to incorporate heavy weights in my workout to set myself up for my goals in old age? 

Episode Links:

Article: Muscle Mass Index as a Predictor of Longevity in Older-Adults

Episode #213: The Pill, Irregular Periods, & Post-Birth Control Syndrome with Dr. Jolene Brighten 

Beyond the Pill

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