I appreciate student feedback. Unfortunately, I get less since our institution has moved to online evaluations. I did receive one welcomed comment from a class this term that was not unexpected. A student noted that “Biases in the class were clear and obvious, this became a distraction.” It is not clear that the student was referring specifically to my biases, but I am unapologetic of my bias when it comes to exercise. I am open to other ideas, but only if they are supported with sound physiology and the fundamental principles of exercise—e.g., specificity, overload, etc.
So, yes, I am biased in my views on exercise. I reject many of the common practices in the fitness industry. Unfortunately, the industry is more about marketing than sound physiology—sometimes unwittingly. Frankly, I don’t have time to waste on exercise that is anything less than optimal for my goals. When I teach, my intent is to drive home to my students the importance in “cutting the bull****”.
I believe we should spend our time wisely. Exercise is a component of that time spent, but it is usually a small part of our “well-centered” growth plan. I want results in as little time as possible. I want every effort to be productive. I suspect that is the desire of the athletes and exercisers with whom my students will be working.
In the process, I can come across as inflexible, judgmental and, yes, biased. But I am open to other ideas. I will demand, however, that they be evidence-based. I will note that I am as skeptical of academic science as I am the so-called “bro-science”. I am only satisfied when the science and the experience intersect. (One reason why I tend to cite the likes of Dr. Mike Israetel, Renaissance Periodization, et al. so often.)
I am fine with biased when it is built on a solid foundation. Bias, however, should not be inflexible. I consider mine to be a more plastic bias—constantly reshaped by education.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!