Lift For Life with Graham and Angus – Details, episodes & analysis

Angus & Graham discuss whether continuing to exercise when ill is a good idea or not. They detail studies from international medical and academic institutions which suggest that not only can exercising accelerate recovery, but maintaining a resistance training regime can prevent illness from occurring in the first place.

In this week’s episode Graham & Angus discuss the vital power of carbohydrates in a weight loss and training journey. Carbs work in tandem with the other macronutrients, increasing absorption of protein and boosting metabolism.

Despite this, carbs are often demonised by some who are persuaded by corporate marketing, without reading the science.

Angus & Graham discuss sweet foods and sugar cravings. They cite studies that suggest sugar cravings can stem from emotional stresses (stomach, mouth, and heart hunger).

Graham mentions the journey of the (formerly obese) actress, Rebel Wilson. Angus talks about how he was rationed sweets during childhood. Women can experience cravings as a result of their menstrual cycle.

They highlight ways to better manage nutrition in order to suppress sugar cravings; and the successes of Japanese schools.

Angus & Graham discuss rest and recovery post training. This is essential to ensure gains and reduce injury risk.

In addition to discussing their own experiences, and challenges, Graham researches elite athlete including premier league footballer recovery regimes. Elite athletes regularly train 2 or 3 times per day so understanding hydration, sleep, mobility, and nutrition is essential.

Topics include napping protocol and some surprising findings on the limitations of water and the importance of carbohydrates.

Graham & Angus discuss training post holiday, and their summer holidays this year. Whilst they both tend to train at near to normal levels when away, as training has become an intrinsic part of their lives, it’s clear that this is not common. Proximity to a gym may not be a priority for all when on holiday.

So how do you ramp back up after returning home? How do you overcome guilt post an exercise lull? Graham gets very confused during his research for this episode.

Angus and Graham discuss nutrition hacks and the mistakes Graham used to make, such as salads, cappuccinos, olive oil, and carbs after 6 pm. Focus on food that is colourful and learn about macro- and micronutrients.

Angus and Graham discuss home workouts, and what to do if you are on holiday in an area without a gym this summer.

Their suggestions become quite niche …

Graham & Angus discuss why some people choose cosmetic surgery & hair transplants as opposed to focusing on their fitness. They come to the perhaps surprising conclusion that cosmetic surgery and weight training can be complementary.

Weight training acts to improve skin quality. Excess skin can be a problem after a major weight-loss programme. They discuss why this is and how it can be remedied.

Finally, hair loss is focussed on, with studies that suggest that Graham does not need to be concerned.

Angus and Graham give an update on other HYROX training and then dig into the genetics of weight training.

Are some people pre-disposed to gain muscle? Why do some people find it easier to have ripped abs and others have massive biceps or legs, apparently without much effort?

By forcing Graham to do his research on the topic, Angus changes Graham’s perceptions. They also discuss performance-enhancing drugs in this context. Everyone can push themselves to their own genetic limit and not be so fixated on others.

Angus & Graham discuss discipline. How do you stay on track when you lose control of your diary? Whilst Graham has always suggested that he is able to maintain consistency in his training regime, there are rare occasions when unexpected events and meetings occur. He describes how he adjusts for such situations.

They also talk about how top global executives begin and maintain their training regimes, how habit stacking can help, and how time spent training can end up being additive to the rest of the day. Jamie Dimon, Jeff Bezos and Nacy Pelosi come up. The more senior you become, the more important your decisions are. Weight-training helps you make better decisions.