Lost Empire Herbs’ Subscribe & Save Program: A Quest for Unstoppable Vitality

Are you ready? I SAID...ARE..YOU..READY!!! To build a body and mind that rival the gods? To rise each dawn with the ferocity of a lion, the clarity of an eagle, and a conquer of mountains? Then heed this call, for Lost Empire Herbs’ Subscribe & Save Program is your sacred path to unlocking the primal power within. This isn’t just a subscription—it’s a pact with nature, a vow to conquer weakness, and a relentless pursuit of the most bad ass version of yourself. Let’s get into this epic saga and discover why this program is one of the ultimate weapons in your arsenal of vitality.

Why Subscribe & Save?

In a world of chaos, where processed poisons masquerade as food and stress stalks us like a shadow, true gods need a nudge. Lost Empire Herbs stands as a beacon of ancient wisdom fused with modern mastery, crafting herbal elixirs that awaken your body’s dormant potential. Their Subscribe & Save Program? It’s the war drum that keeps your supply steady, your savings intense, and your quest for greatness unbroken.

Imagine For A Moment: Every month, like clockwork, your chosen herbs—be it the testosterone-fueling Pine Pollen, the brain-sharpening Bacopa, or the stress-slaying Ashwagandha—arrive at your stronghold. No hunting, no hassle, just pure, lab-tested potency delivered to your door. And with a 10% discount carved into every order, you’re not just saving coin—you’re investing in developing mastery over your domain, to fight fatigue, fog, and frailty with ferocious power.

This isn’t about convenience alone. It’s about commitment. The Subscribe & Save Program binds you to a rhythm of renewal, ensuring you never falter in your crusade for peak performance. As the ancients knew, consistency is the forge where strength is shaped. With flexible delivery options and the freedom to adjust or cancel anytime, you wield total control over your journey.

Why Lost Empire Herbs Reigns Supreme

Before we charge into the battle, let’s honor the smiths behind this program. Lost Empire Herbs isn’t some faceless peddler of powders. They’re alchemists of vitality, sourcing the finest organic and wild-harvested herbs from the earth’s untamed corners. Every batch is rigorously tested in accredited labs for purity, potency, and safety—identity verified, microbiologically screened, and certified low in heavy metals. This isn’t just quality; it’s a sacred oath to deliver what works.

Their mission? To reconnect you with nature’s raw power. From hormone-balancing formulas to energy-unleashing tinctures, each product is a war cry against mediocrity. Trustpilot roars with over 5,200 voices, granting a 4-star shield of approval. Men & Women speak of life-changing results: “Athena and Pine Pollen gave me vitality as a post-menopausal woman,” one champion declares. Another hails, “Black Maca tastes like victory, and I’m feeling the results!”

Yet, not every tale is triumphant. A lone voice laments, “I felt nothing after 30 days.” Fair enough—herbs, like battles, vary, so don't fret. With a 365-day money-back guarantee, you risk nothing. Try a full bag or bottle, and if it doesn’t ignite your fire in your belly, send it back for a full refund. No questions, no groveling.

How Subscribe & Save Fuels Your Conquest

Let’s break this down like the Knights Of The Roundtable strategizing. The Subscribe & Save Program is your logistics master, ensuring your herbal arsenal never runs dry. Here’s how it empowers your campaign:

Steady Supply, Unbroken Momentum: Herbs aren’t a one-shot potion; they build in your system, forging lasting change. A monthly delivery keeps you locked in, whether it’s a $35.99 tincture or a $76.49 bundle. No gaps, no excuses.

10% Savings, Every Time: Gold is power, and you’ll hoard more with this discount. A $40.49/month Pine Pollen tincture becomes $36.44. Over a year? That’s enough saved to snag an extra bottle of Shilajit, the resin of resilience.

Total Command: Adjust your frequency, swap products, or pause with a single click. Need to halt your quest? Cancel anytime, no chains binding you. This is freedom forged in incredible flexibility.

Curated for the Gods: From Spartan for men’s vigor to Mushroom Brain for cognitive conquest, choose herbs tailored to your goals. Their quiz—quick, no signup—guides you to your perfect allies.

Knowledge is Power: Each order comes with a deluge of wisdom—articles, videos, even an eBook of recipes. Learn to wield your herbs like the blade of Conan, whether mixing powders in smoothies or holding tinctures under your tongue.

The Heroes’ Chorus: Tales from the Trenches

The proof of any epic saga lies in its heroes. Across Trustpilot, Reddit, and beyond, many sing of Lost Empire’s impact. A veteran of four years declares, “They always deliver on their promises. Take the quiz and start your journey!” Another, a 68-year-old sage, credits Pine Pollen for surging energy: “I’m ordering more to keep climbing!”

Reddit on Nootropics, a seeker praises their extraction process: “The taste alone tells you it’s potent. Lost Empire’s herbs are top-tier, worth every coin.” A woman shares, “St. John’s Wort and Turmeric are my anchors through stress. This company changed my life.”

Even the skeptics nod to their service. One who felt no spark still salutes, “Five stars for delivery and communication.” With 16 active discount codes and a newsletter brimming with exclusive deals, the value is undeniable.

Join the Subscribe & Save Legion

This is no mere purchase—it’s a declaration of war on weakness and mediocrity. Lost Empire Herbs’ Subscribe & Save Program is your banner, rallying you to a life of boundless energy, razor-sharp focus, and unyielding strength. For as little as $35.99/month, you can wield nature’s might, backed by a company that’s earned the trust of thousands.

Will you answer the call? Take their quiz, claim your 10% savings, and let the herbs flow like a river of strength. With free shipping on U.S. orders over $100 and a 365-day guarantee, your risk is zero, but your reward? A body and mind that echo through time.

The world awaits your greatness. Lost Empire Herbs’ Subscribe & Save Program isn’t just a tool—it’s a forge, a crucible, a sacred rite. Commit to it, and you commit to yourself. Let the herbs fuel your fire, let the savings stoke your resolve, and let the wisdom guide your blade. This is your saga. Write it with power. Write it with might.

Unleash your inner Zeus or Athena. Subscribe today and be amazingly awesome.

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The Ancient Fury of Goji Berry Powder: A Cosmic Elixir

Let's have some fun and talk about a tale of Lost Empire Herbs’ Goji Berry Powder—a superfood forged in the crucibles of ancient Chinese wisdom, pulsating with the raw, untamed energy of the cosmos. This is no mere store bought supplement; it’s a primal force, a ruby-red beacon of health that beckons the bold to rise, conquer, and thrive. Let us embark on this epic odyssey through the lore, power, and glory of the “Happy Berry”!

Time Travel back to 200 BCE, to the scrolls of the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing, where the goji berry—gǒuqǐ in the tongue of the ancients—first roared into existence as a top-grade herb, revered by the mythical emperor Shennong, the Divine Farmer himself. This wasn’t just a berry; it was a sacred talisman of longevity, a staple in the diets of sages and warriors who sought to defy time itself. Legend whispers of Li Ching Yuen, a herbalist who, fueled by goji berries, rice wine, and unyielding grit, claimed to have walked this earth for over two centuries, outliving 23 wives and siring 200 heirs. Whether truth or myth, the goji berry’s legacy is etched in the annals of Chinese medicine as the “gateway herb”—a potent, accessible ally for those daring enough to seize its power.

Grown in the pristine highlands of China’s Ningxia region, Lost Empire Herbs’ Goji Berry Powder is no ordinary dust of the earth. These berries are harvested at the zenith of ripeness, freeze-dried to lock in their celestial nutrients, and ground into a vibrant, crimson powder that hums with life. This is not the stuff of supermarket shelves, tainted by additives or weakened by compromise. This is organic, pure, and unapologetically potent—fuel for a world that demands nothing less than your best.

Open your imagination to a substance so fierce it wages war on free radicals, supports your liver like a loyal shield-bearer, sharpens your vision to eagle-like precision, and steadies your blood sugar like a seasoned general commanding the chaos of battle. That’s Goji Berry Powder. With an ORAC value soaring over 25,000, it’s an antioxidant juggernaut, obliterating oxidative stress and guarding your cells against the ravages of time. It’s not just a supplement; it’s a declaration of war against mediocrity.

Anti-Aging Alchemy: Goji berries are loaded with compounds that defy the sands of time. Their polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals—yes, they’re a complete protein—work in concert to support cellular health, keeping you vibrant and unyielding.

Liver & Kidney Fortitude: In the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine, goji berries nourish the liver and kidney channels, fortifying your body’s core systems. They’re like blacksmiths hammering your organs that forge into unbreakable steel.

Eye of the Hawk: Rich in zeaxanthin and other vision-enhancing nutrients, goji powder sharpens your sight, letting you lock onto your goals with predatory focus.

Mood of a Conqueror: Known as the “Happy Berry,” goji powder heightens your spirits, banishing the fog of doubt and igniting a burning fire of optimism. It’s the type of strength and power you need to charge into the fray of life.

Immune Bastion: Packed with vitamins C and A, goji berries bolster your immune system, turning your body into a fortress against invaders. Holding the line to protect you with everything its got.

This isn’t just nutrition; it’s an insane health strategy. Each tablespoon of Lost Empire Herbs’ Goji Berry Powder is a battle-ready dose of nature’s finest, designed to elevate you above the mundane and into the realm of gods & legends.

The beauty of Goji Berry Powder lies in its versatility—it’s as adaptable as a seasoned mercenary. Lost Empire Herbs recommends 1 to 2 tablespoons daily, but as a food-grade superfood, you can wield it as boldly or cautiously as you choose. Here’s how YOU can unleash its power:

The Warrior’s Elixir: Stir 1-2 tablespoons into water or juice and down it like a shot of courage. The sweet, slightly tangy flavor makes it a pleasure, not a chore. Pro tip: Mix it with other herbs like schisandra or pine pollen for a synergistic strike with incredible force and vengeance.

The Morning Siege: Blend it into your morning smoothie with fruits, nuts, and a fat source to enhance absorption. It’s like forging a blade with fire and steel—your body will hum with energy.

The Culinary Conquest: Sprinkle it into baked goods, oatmeal, or yogurt. Its natural sweetness enhances flavors while infusing your meals with vitality.

The Tactical Tincture: For those who prefer liquid fire, try Lost Empire Herbs’ Goji & Schisandra Tincture, a sweet-sour elixir that balances yin and yang for all-over domination.

Unlike the bitter herbs that test your resolve, goji powder is a crowd-pleaser, its taste as inviting as its benefits. It’s the perfect ally for beginners and veterans alike, masking the edge of stronger herbs like Phoenix Formula while adding its own nutritional heft.

Not all goji powders are created equal and here's the 411 as to why..... Lost Empire Herbs stands as an Olympian in a world of pretenders, sourcing their berries from the unspoiled soils of China’s Tibetan Plateau, where pollution dares not tread. Each batch is lab-tested for purity, ensuring low heavy metals, no GMOs, and no additives—just the raw, unadulterated essence of the berry. Freeze-dried to preserve maximum nutrition, this powder is a testament to their creed: “Unleash the Power of Nature.”

Their commitment to quality is matched only by their warrior’s code of customer service. With a 365-day satisfaction window and a support team as fierce as their products, Lost Empire Herbs ensures you’re never alone on your quest for greatness. Free shipping on U.S. orders over $100 sweetens the deal, making it easier to stock your arsenal.

A Word of Caution for the Wise

Goji berries are a safe bet for most, with no known side effects for the average person. But as a member of the nightshade family, they may not suit those with sensitivities. If you’re on blood pressure or diabetes meds, consult your healer—er, doctor—before diving in, as goji’s potency can shift the battlefield. And while lectins have stirred debate, fear not: unless you’re on a strict lectin-free crusade, goji’s benefits far outweigh any overstated risks.

In a world that grinds down the weak, Goji Berry Powder is your warhammer, your protective shield as strong as vibranium, your rallying cry. It’s not just a supplement; it’s a lifestyle, a commitment to living with the ferocity of a dragon and the wisdom of a sage. Whether you’re a novice dipping your toes into herbalism or a seasoned warrior stacking herbs like a master alchemist, Lost Empire Herbs’ Goji Berry Powder is your gateway to greatness.

Seize your 250-gram bag—roughly 25 doses of pure, unfiltered power—and let it fuel your conquests. Mix it, drink it, bake it, or sling it into your smoothie like a grenade of vitality. The battlefield of life awaits, and with Goji Berry Powder in your arsenal, you’re not just surviving—you’re dominating.

For more on this epic elixir, charge over to Lost Empire Herbs and claim your destiny. The “Happy Berry” calls—will you answer?

Side Note: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Keep being amazingly awesome...

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Lost Empire Herbs’ Memorial Day Sale is LIVE! 20% OFF EVERYTHING!

Let me tell you something...If you’re all about crushing it with natural health products that fuel your strength, sharpen your mind, and ignite your vitality, then buckle up—Lost Empire Herbs is dropping a massive BOMB with their Memorial Day Sale. We’re talking 20% OFF SITEWIDE, and this might be your LAST shot to score big this year. Why? Tariffs are looming like a storm cloud, and this could be their final huge sale of 2025. So, let’s get to it—time to stock up and power up like the beast you are!

Why This Sale is a Game-Changer

Lost Empire Herbs isn’t just another supplement brand peddling typical run of the mill pills. Nah, they’re the real deal—sourcing premium, potent herbs and crafting supplements that hit like a sledgehammer. Whether you’re grinding in the gym, dominating at work, or just want to feel like a freakin’ superhero every day, their lineup is built to elevate you. From energy-boosting adaptogens to testosterone-charging formulas, they’ve got the goods to keep you running at peak performance.

But here’s the kicker: this sale is three days only—Saturday, May 24th through Monday, May 26th. And with tariffs threatening to jack up prices, this could be your final chance to lock in these discounts. You don’t wait for the enemy to strike—you hit first. So, grab that MEM2025 coupon code and raid their site like a Viking on a mission.

What’s on the Table?

Lost Empire Herbs has a stacked arsenal of products that’ll make you feel unstoppable. Here’s the vibe:

Energy & Focus: Herbs like Rhodiola and Cordyceps to keep you locked in and crushing it, whether you’re slamming weights or burning through deadlines.

Strength & Vitality: Formulas like Hercules or Pine Pollen to crank up your power and keep your testosterone roaring.

Recovery & Resilience: Adaptogens and recovery blends to help you bounce back faster than a Spartan after battle.

Libido & Drive: Because let’s be real—feeling like a god in the bedroom is just as important as owning the gym.

New to their stuff? This is the perfect time to experiment. Already a fan? Stock up on your go-to’s before prices climb. Either way, 20% off everything means you’re getting elite-level supplements at a steal.

Sale Deets You NEED to Know

When: Saturday, May 24th - Monday, May 26th, 2025

What: 20% OFF SITEWIDE (yeah, everything)

How: Use coupon code MEM2025 at checkout

Where: Hit up Lost Empire Herbs’ website and go wild

Why You Can’t Sleep on This

It's No Bullshit—tariffs are coming, and they’re gonna hit hard. Prices could spike, and sales like this might vanish faster than your gains on a bad week. This isn’t just a sale; it’s a call to arms. Stock your war chest with the herbs and supplements that keep you operating at 110%. Whether you’re a seasoned biohacker or just starting your journey to greatness, Lost Empire Herbs has the tools to make you a force of nature.

Pro Tips to Maximize the Sale

Stack Your Favorites: Already know what works for you? Buy in bulk to lock in the savings.

Try Something New: Always wanted to test their He Shou Wu for hair and vitality or Tongkat Ali for that extra edge? Now’s the time.

Plan Ahead: With tariffs looming, grab enough to last you through the year.

Spread the Word: Tell your crew.

Final Charge

This Memorial Day, it’s not just about barbecues and flags—it’s about honoring your body, your mind, and your relentless drive to be better. Lost Empire Herbs is handing you the keys to unlock your full potential, and with 20% off sitewide, you’d be crazy to miss this. Punch in MEM2025 and load up before the clock runs out on May 26th.

Go to Lost Empire Herbs, stock your arsenal, and unleash the titan within. The world doesn’t wait—seize this moment and dominate. Free Shipping W/ Orders over $100

Be sure to read the disclaimers for these products.

Be amazingly awesome and in kick ass health.

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Good Morning Workout For Joint Health, Neck Work & Deep Breathing

 Been up a while now and waking up to traffic and blustering winds, not that bad considering. Got some good training in to start the day starting with some deep breathing exercises including the Farmer Burns Stomach Flattener that I learned from Combat Abs. Moved on to my Neck Mobility Workout and felt really good clearing the cobwebs and worked some Joint Loosening, feeling relaxed and ready to get the day going. 

Today's going to be a good day for me and the girlie, a nice outing later with lunch and maybe a movie (thinking Captain America: Brave New World) and just being together. It's important to just be with the people in your life and enjoy the bonding and having fun together. 

It is a joy to be able to do things and then get to spend time with a loved one, life is too fucking short to be bitter and acting like some superior dickhead. Finding the balance in certain aspects of life isn't easy and it can be tough at times but when an opportunity arises, do what you can and let it sink in. Yeah, I can be a sappy son of a bitch at times but it's better than being a prick with a stick up his ass and being some Andrew Tate wanna-be (who would really want to be that numbnuts anyway).

Being on a Fitness Journey isn't always what the workouts do to make life better, it's what they continue to bring and teach you how to adapt when needed, just like in life. Being stiff is no fun whether physically or mentally and focusing too much on that "kill or be killed" mentality can turn you into someone that becomes lonely and not worth being around. Sure it's important to protect yourself when it calls for it or protect those you love but unless you live in an area where there isn't much of a choice to protect yourself and have that mentality all the time, learn to find the balance.

Doing exercises for the neck can do wonders for brain function and get the nerves firing for a healthy spine, not just building a strong neck. Loosening up the joints goes beyond stretching and just doing gentle exercises, it builds durability and be able to move more smoothly with limited chances of injury instead of high risk and being prone to them. The deep breathing gets those juices flowing and waking the body up from the inside. The old timers knew the crucial elements of deep breathing and what they represent. From Shaolin Monks to Charles Atlas, The Mighty Atom, Paul Bragg and Maxick; all practiced Deep Breathing and knew their benefits for what they will do later on.

Hope everyone has a great morning and keep killing your goals whether they're small or massive, every goal conquered is a victory for what lies ahead. Be amazingly awesome.   

When Alchemy Meets Modern Farming (This Is Fascinating)

An innovative Oregon farmer has unlocked what could be the most potent form of ashwagandha ever created - using an ancient alchemical method that takes an entire year to complete. (True story.)

This isn't just another ashwagandha supplement...

Here's what makes it uniquely powerful:

🌱 The ONLY commercially available ashwagandha grown in the USA (Oregon) 

🌿 Biodynamically farmed and spagyrically prepared (a rare ancient extraction method that preserves the plant's full spectrum of benefits) 

💧 Tincture form for superior absorption and that “no-pill” convenience 

👨‍🌾 Direct relationship with the farmer (We all love transparency!)

Even more fascinating? When was the last time you bought an adaptogen that's literally grown and crafted with such care, it takes a full year to produce?

If you're like me and others whom already understand the scientifically-backed benefits of Ashwagandha, then you're going to go nuts for this product.

Especially since it comes from a company known for their uncompromising quality standards, complete transparency about their process, and a 'no questions asked' 365-day money-back guarantee. (Yes, really - a full year to decide if you love it!)

👉 Click here to discover why this breakthrough formulation is rapidly becoming the go-to Ashwagandha choice.

Be Amazingly Awesome and harness the power of Herbs. 

How To Deal With The Unbearable Taste Of Lost Empire Herbs

 The herbs from Lost Empire can really put a fire under your ass when you first take it either in the morning or in the beginning if you're new to the herbs themselves. Honestly, some have even thrown up at times like one customer on Cistanche Extract: “The cistanche is really unbearable to take. I tried like the video to scoop it in and wash it down, was the most disgusting thing I’ve ever eaten. I tried mixing half a teaspoon in my tea… still so difficult to drink and gagging the whole time. Any advice?” There's an article you can find about this here...

There are reasons why there's a capsule culture even when it isn't the best option. As time went on, many customers became accustomed to the bitter taste to certain herbs like Tongkat Ali for example. Some however, just don't get to that point. I'm one of those people and I prefer the capsules like Pine Pollen or Thor's Hammer . If you do choose to take in the bitter taste of the herbs, here's some ideas for you to go for that cut and mask the taste itself...

It's never going to be perfect and everyone has different preferences but you can experiment with certain things that could help you get over that hump. Using something Sweet & Sour can be useful, some forms of juice can be another option as well that is sweet to a more tart taste such as: Apple Juice, Orange Juice, Grapefruit & Cranberry. The amount of volume you'll need to mask with these is not a general thing, it's an individual thing and experimenting with what could work for you. Is it better to take a 1/2 teaspoon in a shot of juice or taking a 1/2 teaspoon in a 16 oz glass? That's really up to you to figure out.

At times, using less can be more efficient, get that shit down quickly like taking a shot of tequila. The taste will be diffused but still won't be that great and you'll have to chug down a bit. The same idea can be used for the herbs themselves. For the "worse" tasting herbs such as: Hercules Formula, Phoenix and Shilajit, you can also use a mixture of the more sweet and sour herbs like for example; Beet Juice Powder, Goji Berry, Seabuckthorn & Schisandra. These not only give those other herbs flavor but also bring benefits themselves. 

For something like the Beet Juice Powder, it's one of the best things for Nitric Oxide Production which can be very helpful for working out or having a little fun with your significant other in the bedroom. It also pairs well with Hercules & Thor Formulas in a great way too. The taste has a higher chance of being better and works like a fucking charm. Double whammy I say.

Now, the next option would be to blend into smoothies. The same factors still apply here, you have quite a number of ingredients that can mask or cut the taste but be forewarned, sometimes one herbs or several can become undrinkable. Start with smaller doses and build up from there. You could use some of the more normal ingredients like fruits and juices or hell even options like honey and nut butters. 

At the end of the day, if the taste is just too much for you (I'm with you on this one), there are plenty of other options that have awesome benefits. Grab some herbs and make the best of them for you. They're top of the line and there's a ton of research done on them and learning what you can do with them. Be amazingly awesome and stay healthy. 

Lost Empire And Athletes Drug Testing

With the complexity and ever-changing rules and regulations, you never know what they have on hand to find what can be used as a substance that makes a certain drug illegal to take for athletes at the highest level. Some supplements can be harmful to take and there's always a chip on an athlete's shoulders when it comes to staying clean or finding some perverse way to get a away with by fooling a drug test. I'm all for drug testing for any sport at the highest level because it is important that an athlete remains as pure as possible and don't condone the use of steroids or PED's that would be considered illegal, harmful and putting someone's life at risk.

To the best of my knowledge and of the team at Lost Empire Herbs, the herbs themselves should be safe to consume for competitors in their chosen sport that do drug testing. I've never heard of an athlete failing a test from taking these herbs nor have I heard of anyone dying or having some severe harm come to them from taking the herbs. I keep a close eye on that kind of thing because although I work for the company, I would never want any hurt or have problems that risks their life athlete or not. Some jokers have even repeated on their own sites that I'm selling herbs that are killing people which isn't true and having taken them myself, there has not been one incident that remotely suggests this. 

In all the years that I've promoted this company here and on social media, I was never told of anyone dying or read of a failed test. If there was, I would know about it but until then, this is still one of the very best companies on the planet that takes pride in using herbs that can be useful in the health of just about anyone. The majority of people taking these herbs have never felt better in their lives and Lost Empire does their research (it's on the site talking about ingredients and what's in them to ensure what a potential customer understands how they work). Do you know anyone that has failed a drug test taking these specific herbs and not from another substance while on the herbs as well? Or if you're a buyer from me experienced a failed drug test or has it been smooth sailing for you? If it's been smooth sailing, let Lost Empire know and if there's been a situation where the test came up and you or someone you know failed using the herbs, let them know, they will do what they can to see what they can do about the situation. Thank you. 

I know I normally don't write about this kind of stuff but it is important because I do care about someone's health and well-being, my wife has taken these herbs as well and I would never put her at risk and she never has experienced problems with them. These herbs aren't anything magical but they can be a great asset to one's health and being able to bask in the benefits they do provide. Not everyone is going to like them and some of them are not meant for everyone but I assure you, with the proper dosage and awareness of what's in them, there's great benefit to them that can help you with balancing hormone levels, give you great energy, clarity and can help you with your current training regimen. Are they the best tasting? No and even the company themselves acknowledge that but not everything is about flavor, it's about getting the most for your body's ability to adapt to its natural state and harness levels of your immunity and blood cells. 

Do the research yourselves and find out if they're right for you or not. You owe it to yourself to be in the best health you can be in and this is another output to help you on your journey. Be safe, check out the herbs and keep being amazingly awesome. 

Check out these herbs in the meantime.....

Hercules Pre Workout

Beet Juice Powder

He Shou Wu

Stag Swag Tincture

Horny Goat Weed

Pine Pollen Powder + Capsules

Functional Fitness: Sometimes Lost In Translation

In 1998, the year of my 50^th birthday, I decided to quit my comfortable but unfulfilling sales rep job and become a fitness professional. After getting certified (just means legal) I started working at a popular local fitness and tennis center as a trainer. It didn’t take long, about 6 months, before I knew their corporate centered business model was not what I envisioned for myself. So I left on good terms to open my own personal training business, Functional Fitness, in 1999. I thought my business name was so clever and unique at the time I birthed it. Soon however, everything I read was functional this and functional that, and I sensed a dilution of my “unique name.”

The concept of functional fitness still captures the essence of what I think fitness programs should be aiming for and that is the ability to perform our daily activities (ADL’s). Western culture seems to demand a “what’s new and exciting” approach to all things we consume, including fitness. For example, we have all seen various types of group exercises classes ebb and flow over the years. We started with aerobics, then step aerobics, Tae Bo, core classes, body pump, spin classes, Pilates and the list goes on.

I support anything that gets people up and moving. My point is the fitness industry keeps trying to redefine what fitness is, how to achieve it, and then put a full court marketing press to get people to buy into it. Originally, group exercise classes were led by highly energetic charismatic instructors with microphones, prompting everyone to follow along. Fortunately there have been some improvements in instructor education so that safe progressions are now usually offered for those unable to keep up.

Probably one of the most pervasive myths around these types of classes is that the longer and harder you work, the more pounds are going to melt off your body. The religion of “cardio” was born and anointed as the ultimate fat burning tool. The truth is as one of my mentors says: “You can’t out exercise poor nutrition.” We as fitness professionals need to be honest with people about the relationship between nutrition, exercise, and weight loss. Frankly, we have done a very poor job of physically educating the public when it comes to what fitness is and how each person might achieve it.

Over the years, there have been many systems of training offered but the ones that make the most sense to me have four components in common. I believe I first heard this from Paul Chek and later Mark Verstegan as a template for training. We call these the Four Pillars of Human Movement. There are other components that should be part of a training program but the bare essentials are: (1) Gait/locomotion, (2) Level Changes, (3) Pushing/Pulling, and (4) Rotation.

In essence every healthy human needs to be able to perform these movements at some level to complete their activities of daily living. Whether we are talking about the senior population or high level athletes, the only difference is in the training variables of: intensity, frequency, loads, volume etc.

Let’s look at exactly we are talking about with each pillar and some examples.

Gait/Locomotion:

Using our two ends of the spectrum, seniors need to be able to walk efficiently and safely at a minimum. Athletes may need to be able to run, sprint, change directions, and jump to meet the demands of their sport. I also include as locomotion anything that takes us from point A to point B (under our own power), to include: cycling, rowing, swimming, etc. All programs (for healthy people) should have a form of this component present appropriate for the population and goals of the participants.

Level Changes:

This includes any movements that change the level of our bodies such as: Squatting, split squatting, lunges, hip hinges, deadlifts, step-ups, jumping, etc. Comparing our two ends of the activity spectrum, seniors need to be able to squat onto and off of a toilet or chair (at a minimum). Athletes may need to develop more strength and power to improve their running speed or jumping ability. Because of our cultural bias towards sitting so much, we have almost universally, tight hip flexors, and weak glutes throughout most populations. Obviously appropriate progressions are necessary to meet the needs or demands of different populations. Ultimately all healthy individuals need to be able to perform level changes efficiently and safely.

Pushing and Pulling:

We will combine these two opposing movements to keep our model (Four Pillars) simple. There are basically only three directions we tend to push and pull things: (1) High push overhead or a high pull like a pull-up; (2) Horizontal push, as in a push-up or horizontal pull like a body row, and (3) Low push, as in pushing up out of a hole or a low pull like bringing an object from the floor to a counter. Considering our senior population they need to be able to put something overhead on a shelf (high push), push a lawn mower or shopping cart (horizontal push), or push into the arms of their chair to help them get up. The examples for athletes are more obvious, pressing weights overhead, doing push-ups for training, pulling a weighted bar from the floor during training.

Rotation:

This movement pattern isn’t often regarded as necessary but any activity that requires, swinging something (bat, racquet, club) or throwing activity (baseball) requires rotational capability. Conversely, there are movements that when performed, require that the body stabilize and NOT rotate. So training rotation involves both the initiation of rotation and prevention of rotation. Most of the time when people tweak their backs, the mechanism of injury is some type of rotation with flexion. The key to using rotation effectively and safely requires proper alignment throughout the kinetic chain.”  This usually means we are in an upright position, using our legs/feet to push into the ground, transferring that energy through a stable trunk (core) and out through our arm as in a throwing or swinging motion.

There is a phenomenon known as the “serape effect” (described by Logan), which observes the diagonal arrangement of the core muscles as they cross the torso. There is a direct relationship between the shoulders and the hips to facilitate or prevent rotation. If for example you are throwing a ball with your right arm, you are pushing through your right hip and your left shoulder rotates quickly to allow your right arm to follow through. Gait/walking/running is another example of the relationship of shoulders and hips. We walk/run in a contra-lateral fashion with the right foot forward, left arm forward, producing forward motion via rotation.

There are times when we are asymmetrically loaded i.e. carrying a suitcase on one side. The core muscular needs to stabilize and actively prevent rotation/flexion to protect the spine. The examples given also remind us that the “core” musculature is reactive in nature. Yes, we can do some core isolation exercises during training but ultimately it’s when we are using our arm/legs that the core muscles react to both complete the movement and prevent excess rotation to protect the spine.

Thus the Four Pillars of Human Movement can serve as a template for guiding your training. If you can integrate each pillar into your training you will go a long way towards maintaining your ability to perform your particular activities of daily living efficiently and safely. There are other elements of fitness that can be considered as well depending on the demands upon your body. Additional elements like: balance, agility, coordination, endurance, flexibility, joint mobility, and power are critical to optimize the Four Pillars. Many of these can be included in your warm-up. It is beyond the scope of this article to discuss all the possible elements of fitness. It is my hope that you will consider structuring your exercise around the Four Pillars and sprinkle in some of the other elements mentioned. One other consideration is to vary the plane of motion you are level changing, pushing/pulling, and even running in. Most people only think about training in a linear fashion. Try mixing in some lateral and rotational variations to your pillar movements i.e. lateral split squats, rotational lunges, standing single arm cable presses and pulls, lateral shuffle runs.

Finally once you are comfortable with working the Pillars in all planes of motion, look for ways to integrate as many Pillars into one exercise. Typically we call these compound movements i.e. Squat and press (level change and high push), Split Squat and row (level change and horizontal pull). How about incorporating three pillars in one exercise? Try a walking lunge with medicine ball rotation (gait, level change, and rotation). Another example:  Squat with a single kettlebell, touch the floor, clean the kettlebell to the “rack position,” then press overhead rotationally by pivoting your same side hip/foot as you are pressing with. Wow that’s got a level change, a low pull (clean), a press (high push), and rotation! A senior might perform this type of movement naturally with a small box on the floor, picking it up (squatting/pulling) and then pushing overhead up onto a shelf.

I hope this article has sparked your curiosity to explore bodyweight movements and resisted exercises from a fresh perspective. Once you have mastered some of the bodyweight basics like squatting, push-ups, body rows, and planks you can start exploring the use of bands, cables, dumbbells, kettlebells, suspension training etc. You see it doesn't really matter what implement you use, it’s all about the movement (pillars). While not specifically stated here it is strongly suggested that most of your training be done in a standing position (that’s where life happens). Typical exercise machines are not going to train your pillar movements like free standing exercise where balance, core stability, proprioception, and gravity are waiting to challenge your body.

If you are uncertain about how to start this type of program I encourage you to consult with a local fitness professional. Talk to your friends or gym members about who they would recommend. Be sure to interview them (you are the boss). Make sure that they understand what you want to accomplish and ask them to explain how they would progress you. If possible find a professional that has a Functional Movement Screen certification. This seven-movement screen is what many fitness professionals use to determine how and where to start you on your path. Any exercise program needs to be first and foremost safe and effective and that is facilitated by proper progression. Don’t ever be intimidated to ask your instructor questions or tell them that something doesn’t feel right or hurts. You need to be responsible for your experience so always communicate accurately what you are feeling.

I welcome your comments, thoughts, and questions. Please feel free to contact me at: mailto:ken@zealcenter.com

If you would enjoy learning more I put out a weekly blog that includes an exercise of the week and random information and thoughts about living in Ecuador. The blog can be found at: http://www.zealcenter.com/blog

Be Well…Be Fit,

Ken