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Physical enthusiasts are not going to be surprised by this one: A new study reports that “Body Movements Can Influence Problem Solving.” Researchers set up a problem that required a creative solution. Subjects were guided through movement sessions: one group was led through movements that subtly resembled the ultimate solution, the other group was led through generalized, unrelated movements. Those who moved in the related way were far more likely to arrive at the solution.

This sounds obvious enough, but the findings are powerful evidence that the mind and body are intimately connected and interdependent. They  also suggest that our Cartesian approach to education is deeply flawed. Instead of isolating the brain and trying to stuff it full of information, we ought to be bringing the body into the process. Physical movement isn’t just about health; it’s also about intelligence. As the researchers put it:

"Fat loss is an all-out war. Give it 28 days — only 28 days. Attack it with all you have. It's not a lifestyle choice; it's a battle. Lose fat and then get back into moderation. There's another one for you: moderation. Revelation says it best: 'You are lukewarm and I shall spit you out.' Moderation is for sissies."

— Dan John, legend

Complex A

Bent Over Barbell Row

Hang Clean

Front Squat + Push Press Hybrid

Jump Squat (bar on back)

Good Morning

Complex B

Romanian Deadlift

Hang Clean + Front Squat + Push Press (combo lift — perform one rep of each in series)

Reverse Lunge (alternate legs)

Complex C

Deadlift

High Pull (onto toes)

Squat Clean (clean the bar from the hang and then drop into a full squat on the catch)

Military Press (strict)

Jump Lunges (switch legs) — Insert my evil laugh here!

Complex D

Jump Squat

Squat

Squat and hold for 10s

Military Press

Push Press

Squat and Press (combo lift — perform one rep of each in series)

In my opinion, the best question to ask has nothing to do with whether one should be doing high intensity or steady state exercise.  Rather, the best question, the one the most often goes unasked, is this one:

What type of cardio progression should I be using?

Progression? Yea, you  know, how you’re increasing the work you do from one cardio session to the next in order to ensure that you continue to improve your fitness and lose body fat.