Personal Health Advisor

Key Takeaways In a recent study, researchers wanted to see if taking oral contraceptive (birth control) pills had any affect on physical performance. They found that birth control pills are likely to decrease athletic performance, though the effect is probably too small for you to notice. Keep reading to learn what science says about how taking...

Key Takeaways The six major muscle groups you want to train are the chest, back, arms, shoulders, legs, and calves. You want to train each of these muscle groups at least once every 5 to 7 days for maximum muscle gain. Keep reading to learn which muscle groups you should workout together and the best exercises...

Key Takeaways A cluster set involves breaking up a regular weightlifting set into a “cluster” of mini-sets (hence the name) with a short break in between each. Weightlifters use cluster sets to reduce fatigue during their workouts and perform their reps with better technique and more explosively. While cluster sets may be helpful in a few...

This article is a chapter from my newest book, Fitness Science Explained, which is live now in our store. If you want a crash course in reading, understanding, and applying scientific research to optimize your health, fitness, and lifestyle, this book is for you. Also, to celebrate this joyous occasion, I’m giving away $1,500 in...

Key Takeaways The menstrual cycle refers to a series of hormonal and physiological changes that occur in a woman’s body roughly every 28 days to prepare her for pregnancy. The first half of the menstrual cycle is the follicular phase, and the second half is the luteal phase. Most women will perform slightly better in...