Are women being misled by flashy fitness trends that ignore the science?

Michelle MacDonald welcomes Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, one of the world’s leading researchers in female exercise physiology. Together, they dismantle popular but unproven trends like cycle syncing, oversimplified menopause nutrition hacks, and hormone-based fear messaging. Lauren explains what the evidence truly says about training, fat loss, and muscle growth for women in all life stages, including the menopause transition. Listeners will walk away with science-backed strategies for building strength, protecting metabolic health, and avoiding common fitness traps.

Favorite Moments (timestamped bullet points):

• 2:30 From Fitness Professional to Female Physiology Researcher
• 6:44 Why Cycle Syncing Misses the Mark for Strength Training
• 19:46 The Truth About Fat Loss During Menopause
• 28:22 The Trade-Off Between Extreme Leanness and Quality of Life
• 34:42 Why Muscle Growth Matters More Than Constant Fat Loss

“The basics work. Don’t let fear-based or overcomplicated messaging distract you from the fundamentals that build strength and health.”

GUEST: LAUREN COLENSO-SEMPLE

MASS Research Review | LinkedIn | Instagram

Full Guest Bio:
I am a muscle physiology researcher and science communicator with a Ph.D. in Integrative Physiology from McMaster University and a M.S. in Exercise Science from the University of South Florida. My work focuses on the influence of ovarian hormones on exercise-induced adaptations. I am also an expert fitness professional with years of practical experience in strength & conditioning and sports nutrition, and I am a co-owner of the MASS Research Review.

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

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Full Michelle Bio:
Michelle MacDonald is the creator of the FITNESS MODEL BLUEPRINT™ and host of the Stronger By Design™ podcast. Known globally for her transformation programs, Michelle empowers women to redefine aging through evidence-based strength training, nutrition, and mindset practices. Since 2012, she has coached thousands of women online, leveraging her expertise as a Physique Champion and ISSA Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She co-founded Tulum Strength Club and established The Wonder Women (TWW), inspiring countless transformations including her mother, Joan MacDonald (Train With Joan™). Michelle continues to lead the charge in women's fitness, launching the Stronger by Design™ fitness app in fall 2024.

Where to Watch/Listen:

• Website
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• YouTube

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