METABOLIC DAMAGE

You’re probably aware of the debate raging about metabolic damage.  If you’re into fitness it’s hard not to be aware—it’s one of the most controversial subjects of the year. Metabolic damage refers to the slowing down of the metabolism due to overtraining and dieting, which makes it difficult to lose fat and can cause various health problems. It’s a curious phenomenon because until recently it was barely mentioned. Now  it’s everywhere. So what should you make of it? This month our science editor Dan Reardon, a medical doctor, hardcore fitness enthusiast and not a man to sit on the fence, tackles the subject. His forthright views make for interesting reading. Tabata has been on the radar a little longer than metabolic damage but there is still some uncertainty about its effectiveness and how it can be incorporated into a training programme. So we asked action woman writer Nicola Joyce, a competitive bodybuilder who has twice swum the English Channel, to find out more about the specific Tabata protocol, which involves training like the clappers for 20 seconds, resting  for 10 seconds and repeating eight times for  an ultra-intense four-minute workout. We also have a new column called UFC Conditioning, which will each month analyse an exercise British UFC star Jimi Manuwa uses during his fight camp. MMA fighters are some of the world’s best-conditioned athletes so it’s worth checking out. Talking of MMA, this month’s magazine also includes Dan Hardy’s column and a profile of the unbeaten Max Nunes. A lot of people like fighter physiques and the hardcore training mentality, which is why we’re upping our MMA coverage. The latest information on training and nutrition is the lifeblood of this magazine. I hope you enjoy this month’s mix and find it useful. You may also wish to follow the Muscle&Fitness page on Facebook where Dr Dan and others post regular updates from the world of fitness. M&F John Plummer Editorial Director editorial@weideruk.com