In this episode of the Movement Logic Podcast, Laurel Beversdorf and Dr. Sarah Court examine the enduring myths and misinformation around the aesthetic goal of “getting abs.” They analyze the anatomy and function of the abdominal muscles, the cultural evolution of ab training versus core strength and stability training, and the role mechanical tension, muscle length, and training volume play in hypertrophy (muscle growth), and how pursuing the aesthetic goal of "getting abs" is different from performance goals related to abdominal strength.

The hosts unpack popular misconceptions, such as “abs are made in the kitchen,” or that body composition changes work differently for women than men, or that core stability means never moving your spine. They contrast these myths with what current research on energy balance and hypertrophy training show. They also trace how Pilates, physical therapy, and social media helped shape the modern core strength and stability narrative—one that, in some circles, shifted from building strength through movement to “protecting” the lumbar spine by avoiding it.

Additionally, this episode aims to clarify all of the factors that influence the appearance of the abdominal region, and how gendered, moralized, and shame-based messaging about the midsection continues to distort public understanding of exercise and body image.

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Clip: Mel Robbing Podcast interview with Stacy Sims about abs

67: Popular Explanations for SI Joint Pain are Wrong, Says Science

78: Behemoth Knee Myths

20: Pelvic Floor In-Depth with Stephanie Prendergast, MPT

54: Alignment Dogma - Spine

58: Alignment Dogma - Shoulders

48: Alignment Dogma - Pelvis

80: Posture Panic Pt. 3 with Author Dr. Beth Linker, PhD

50: Bracing versus Breathing

Slouch: Posture Panic in Modern America, by Beth Linker

GHD Sit-Up

Hodges, 2001; PMID: 11181617

Kalantari, 2024; PMID: 38565979

Brown, 2011; PMID: 21325932

Cholewicki, 1999; PMID: 10521659

In this episode of the Movement Logic podcast, hosts Laurel Beversdorf and Dr. Sarah Court PT dive deep into their six-month online barbell lifting course, 'Lift for Longevity.' They discuss the course structure, including linear periodization, high variation, and impact training. Laurel and Sarah also share insights on the benefits of barbell training for women, challenging societal norms about women's fitness, and emphasizing the importance of strength and self-efficacy. They underscore the transformative power of consistent strength training and offer practical advice for those considering joining their course.

Sign up for the live Q&A on Wednesday October 22nd here (or get the replay)

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References:

Episode 112 Redefining what’s possible: Lift for Longevity Alums Share their Stories

In this episode, Dr. Sarah Court and Laurel Beversdorf delve into the claims and marketing tactics used by two high-profile menopause experts and social media influencers, Dr. Mary Claire Haver and Dr. Vonda Wright. They explore and critique various aspects of their advice, including the advocacy for supplements like turmeric and collagen, the promotion of hormone therapy, and questionable exercise prescriptions. The hosts analyze the scientific validity of their claims, the potential harms, and the prevalence of fearmongering in their messaging. The episode aims to empower listeners to become more critical consumers of health information, especially in the menopause space.

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References:

Episode 37: Plyometrics – Get More Bang for your Bones

Episode 96: Bone Density Grifters – Introducing the Grift-O-Meter!

Episode 103: Do Weighted Vests Do Anything For Us?

Episode 109: Hot Flashes, Cold Facts: Menopause Myths That Won’t Die

Episode 110: Fact Checking Female-Specific Training & Nutrition Advice with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, PhD

Episode 111: Make Stacy Sims Make Sense

The Pause Life

Calorie Restriction with or without Time-Restricted Eating in Weight Loss

Inflammatory mechanisms linking obesity and metabolic disease

The power of creatine plus resistance training

The Effects of Creatine Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training

Dose-Response of creatine supplementation on cognitive function

Effects of Collagen Supplements

Dietary Supplementation with Specific Collagen Peptides

Oral intake of specific bioactive collagen peptides

Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides

Vonda Wright

The musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause

Single Leg Balancing

Managing Menopausal Skin Changes

Topical estrogen for skin aging

Dr. Wright Instagram Posts:

MSK Syndrome of Menopause

F.A.C.E.

Estriol for face

Canyon Ranch

Bone Density

Hip Fracture

Step Down

Weighted Vests

Grip Strength