The Discover Strength Podcast

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into groundbreaking new research on how strength training enhances running economy and durability for long-distance runners. Fresh off the Boston Marathon, Luke shares key findings from a study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, explaining why strength training isn't just beneficial—it's essential ...

On this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson is joined by Dr. Alyssa Larish, academic obstetrician, researcher at the Mayo Clinic, and competitive athlete. They dive into the latest evidence around exercise and pregnancy, the benefits of resistance training for maternal and fetal health, common myths, safe training guidelines, and how to optimize postpartum recovery. Dr. Larrish also ...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson challenges one of the biggest myths in fitness — that more is better when it comes to strength training. Luke unpacks the history behind the popular "3 sets of 10" approach, shares insights from his time with the Minnesota Vikings, and breaks down decades of research supporting single-set training. Learn why doing less can actuall...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson breaks down the latest research on protein and how it can amplify the benefits of your strength training. Luke shares a practical 5-point protein action plan, covering everything from how much protein you need, when to consume it, and why it's especially important as you age or aim to improve body composition. 

Discover Strength offers ...

In this episode, Luke Carlson dives into groundbreaking new research on the effects of strength training for women across different stages of menopause. Published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, this study examines how hormonal changes impact strength gains, balance, and muscle adaptation.

Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united states. You can schedule your free Intr...

In this episode, Discover Strength CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson shares the ten books that have had the greatest impact on his leadership, business philosophy, and the foundation of Discover Strength. Dividing them into three categories—business, leadership, and biographies—Luke discusses why these books matter and how their insights can shape the way you think about work, leadership, and building a successful company....

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson explores the growing popularity of strength training and the critical role that machines play in maximizing results. With the fitness industry shifting towards resistance training, Luke debunks common myths surrounding free weights and highlights seven key benefits of using strength training machines.

Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location ac...

Join Luke Carlson, CEO of Discover Strength, as he dives into the science behind improving body composition and the evolution of the Body Comp Challenge, a program that has helped clients build muscle and lose fat for over 16 years. Luke shares the origins of the challenge, the latest research on strength training, protein intake, and fat loss, and what Discover Strength has learned along the way.

Discover Strength offers free Intro...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into the popular yet often misunderstood topic of core training. Luke explores the origins and evolution of core training, its widespread popularity in fitness culture, and its scientific validity. He clarifies what the "core" actually encompasses and addresses common misconceptions about its role in improving performance, p...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson explores the impact of resistance training on body composition. Luke explains how strength training increases lean muscle tissue at any age, enhancing resting metabolic rate and long-term fat reduction. He dives into the benefits of training to muscle failure, which boosts calorie expenditure post-workout, and contrasts this with the limite...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson dives into one of the most enduring myths in strength training: the belief that repetition ranges and weight loads exclusively determine muscle strength, endurance, size, and tone. Luke debunks these misconceptions with research-backed insights, emphasizing that reaching muscle failure—whether at 5 reps with heavy weight or 45 reps with lig...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson has three special guests on to discuss the Lengthened Partials Study that was conducted across 15 Discover Strength locations. James Fisher PhD, James Steele PhD, and David Gschneidner will discuss the importance of this study, the design, and the results! We want to thank all of the exercise physiologists who were involved in conducting these workouts and the clients w...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, Luke Carlson dives into the critical focus of injury prevention and safe strength training practices. Drawing from decades of experience in professional sports and fitness, Luke explores the philosophy of “first, do no harm” and offers actionable insights to ensure your workouts build strength without compromising your health.

Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at an...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson delves into a new study on single-set versus multiple-set strength training. Discover the evidence-based insights on training to failure, its impact on muscle growth, power, and endurance, and how this research challenges decades of conventional wisdom.

Discover Strength offers free Introductory Workouts at any location across the united sta...

In this episode of the Discover Strength Podcast, CEO and exercise physiologist Luke Carlson delves into eccentric muscle contractions. Learn why the often-overlooked "lowering phase" of strength training exercises is more beneficial than lifting, and how focusing on eccentrics can lead to greater strength, hypertrophy, and even faster recovery. From practical workout tips to groundbreaking research, Luke explores the mag...