Carbohydrate, Water, and Electrolyte Manipulation For Physique Athletes (Ep 80)

In today’s episode, Greg and Eric explore the art and science of “peaking” for physique athletes. The discussion covers carbohydrate loading, water intake adjustments, and electrolyte manipulation for the purpose of transient physique optimization. This conversation digs into the limited research available, while also providing practical recommendations guided by a combination of scientific evidence and real-world experience. Finally, Greg and Eric close out the episode by unanimously recommending a TV show that aligns with the values of the Stronger By Science Podcast.


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*TIME STAMPS*

0:00 Intro

4:16 Road to the Stage

6:47 Road to Athens

9:13 Feats of Strength: Jen Thompson
https://www.instagram.com/p/CavCSR9FD...

12:31 Research Review: Physique science and peak week

12:44 Defining “peaking” in physique sport

15:31 History of bodybuilding/physique research

21:51 How common is “peaking?”
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

23:05 Observational research on “peaking”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8035587/

24:02 Experimental research on carbohydrate loading
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1299502/

28:43 Quasi-experimental research on carbohydrate loading
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/arti...

38:38 Research on intracellular and extracellular fluid shifts
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35202...

58:13 Practical peaking strategies

1:01:38 Future directions for bodybuilding and physique research

1:10:09 Q&A: When will Greg become a full-time host of the podcast?

1:12:17 To Play Us Out: Righteous Gemstones