Joe Rogan, renowned for his eclectic mix of roles as a comedian, actor, and podcast host, is also known for his intense dedication to fitness. In a recent review, an exercise scientist critiqued Joe Rogan’s training, diet, and drug use.
And who would that exercise scientist be? It could only be the one and only. Dr Mike Israetel, PhD in Sport Physiology and co-founder of Renaissance Periodization, is a well-respected professor in the bodybuilding community. He doesn’t only talk about workouts and fitness tips, he often dives deep into health and nutrition.
This is actually the 9th time we are covering Israetel and his evaluation of celebrities workouts. The first 8 were:
- Henry Cavil’s workout
- Brie Larson’s workout
- Mark Wahlberg’s workout
- Tom Brady’s NFL workout
- Kevin Hart’s workout
- Chris Bumstead’s workout
- Chris Hemsworth’s workout
- Hugh Jackman’s Hollywood workout
Dr Mike Israetel delved into Rogan’s training methods, dietary choices, and use of pharmaceutical aids. As a competitive bodybuilder and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, Israetel offers a unique perspective on Rogan’s regimen.
Rogan, equally known for his prowess in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and his influential podcast, has an extensive routine that includes unconventional training tools, a strict diet, and hormone replacement therapy. This article unpacks Israetel’s detailed critique, offering insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how Rogan’s approach stacks up against scientific evidence.
Exercise Scientist Critiques Joe Rogan’s Training, Diet, and Drug Use
Joe Rogan’s Training Regimen
Joe Rogan’s training often features kettlebells, which he praises for promoting functional strength by engaging the entire body. While Israetel acknowledges the benefits of kettlebells, he argues that barbells and dumbbells often offer superior results. “If you really like kettlebells and how they make you feel, there’s not a goddamn thing wrong with them,” says Israetel. However, he suggests that barbells and dumbbells should be prioritized for those serious about strength training.
Bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, and dips also receive high marks from Israetel, who notes their unparalleled effectiveness in building functional strength. Machines, though often criticized for reducing functionality due to their stabilizing assistance, are also valuable for comprehensive muscle development when used correctly.
Israetel humorously critiques certain exercises like the Turkish get-up, describing it as “a parlor trick of lifting” that lacks clear benefits in building functional strength for sports like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of compound movements like deadlifts and power cleans for their proven efficacy in enhancing athletic performance.
Nutritional Approach
Joe Rogan’s diet, particularly his adoption of the carnivore diet, gets under the microscopic lenses of Israetel’s review. Rogan claims the diet provides him with consistent energy levels and an “extra gear” in verbal performance. While acknowledging the stability of energy levels on such a diet, Israetel cautions against its limitations. He underscores the irreplaceable role of carbohydrates in high-intensity performance, citing their importance in sports nutrition.
Israetel recommends a balanced approach, incorporating moderate amounts of low-glycemic carbohydrates paired with healthy fats and proteins to maintain high energy levels without the peaks and valleys associated with high-carb meals. “Carbohydrates are the undisputed forever king of performance nutrition,” he asserts, suggesting that a mix of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can provide the necessary energy for intense physical activities.
Source: Brooke Lark on UnsplashPharmaceutical Enhancements
Rogan’s use of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is discussed with a mix of endorsement and caution. Rogan started TRT at 40 and claims it has significantly improved his quality of life. Israetel agrees that TRT can be transformative for those with clinically low testosterone levels, especially men experiencing andropause in their late 30s to mid-40s. However, he warns against unnecessary use, noting that for individuals with normal testosterone levels, TRT can lead to adverse side effects and offers little to no benefit.
Israetel stresses the importance of addressing lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, and diet before considering TRT. “TRT is not a bandage for an open gaping wound; it is an enhancement if you need it,” he explains. He advises thorough medical consultation and lifestyle assessment to determine whether TRT is truly necessary.
Workout Routine Structuring
Rogan’s structured approach to weekly workout planning earns Israetel’s approval. Rogan meticulously schedules his workouts, including yoga, weightlifting, and running, ensuring he adheres to a balanced and consistent exercise regimen. This level of planning is crucial for long-term adherence and progress in any fitness program. Israetel emphasizes the importance of a well-architected plan for muscle growth and overall fitness.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Dr Mike Israetel’s review of Joe Rogan’s fitness regimen is a blend of commendation and critique. While Rogan’s dedication to training and his openness to various fitness and dietary methods are praiseworthy, Israetel highlights areas where scientific evidence and practical experience suggest alternative approaches might be more effective. From prioritizing barbells and dumbbells over kettlebells to ensuring a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, Israetel’s insights offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to optimize their fitness strategy.
Rogan’s use of TRT and structured workout planning are notable strengths in his approach, but Israetel’s advice on addressing lifestyle factors before resorting to hormone replacement therapy is a crucial reminder of the importance of a holistic approach to health and fitness.
Dr Mike Israetel Go-To Exercise for Each Muscle Group
This content is originated from https://www.boxrox.com your Online Magazine for Competitive Fitness.