Bio
Mike Israetel holds a PhD in Sport Physiology and is currently the Head Sport Scientist for Renaissance Periodization. Israetel was formerly a professor of Exercise and Sport Science in the School of Public Health at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA, where he taught several courses, including Nutrition for Public Health, Advanced Sports Nutrition and Exercise, and Nutrition and Behaviour. He has worked as a consultant on sports nutrition on the United States Training Site in Johnson City, TN, and has been invited to speak at numerous scientific and performance/health conferences, including nutritional seminars at the United States Olympic Training Centre in Lake Placid, NY. A co-founder of Renaissance Periodization, Israetel is an amateur bodybuilder and a professional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu grappler.
When did your athletic career being?
Technically, it began in ninth grade, when I took up wrestling for the first time.
What athletic accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’ve won the Arnold Fitness Grappling Championships at my belt level several years in a row. It’s always pretty cool to be able to win a tournament where your fate is, quite literally, in your own hands!
What adversity have you had to overcome as an athlete and a coach?
Oh man, I trained for my first bodybuilding show whilst defending my dissertation. I’ve been so hungry, I could hardly think, and I still had to keep pushing forward. In retrospect, experiences like that have made me quite a different person.
What are some tips you can provide for the post 45 athlete who wants to increase their strength but not risk energy?
Put weight on the bar in very small increments. Instead of going up 10lbs per week on a squat, for example, go up by 5, and if you can do way more reps, then go up by 10lbs. Faining strength is a slow game, especially if you don’t want to get hurt. Secondly, ALWAYS use good technique. Swinging around and being a showoff in the gym is for those who are not serious about their fitness and health. Be mature and nail your technique down no matter what your ego says!
What are the top 3 supplements you recommend the post 45 athletes utilize to increase strength and muscle?
Creatine, whey protein, and casein protein.
- Creatine: 5g in the morning, daily
- Whey protein: A scoop or two in your workout shake along with some sugary carbs
- Casein protein: At night, before bed
