In this episode of the Simple Science Podcast with Dr Mike Axler, I dive into my journey through the world of fitness and performance. I share how it all started back in 2005 when I earned my NSCA-CSCS certification, began working as a personal trainer, and eventually made the leap into both in-person and online coaching.
I talk about what it was like transitioning from mechanical engineering to exercise physiology, and how I learned to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world coaching. We also get into some of my favorite topics—metabolic flexibility, high-protein diets for body recomposition and performance, and how to tailor science to fit each client’s unique context.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with everyone from elite athletes to everyday clients, and I share what I’ve learned about coaching philosophy, behavior change, and long-term success.
And because life isn’t all lab work and lifting, I even talk about a few of my personal passions—like kiteboarding—and how those experiences shape how I think about movement, recovery, and adventure.
It’s a comprehensive conversation for anyone in the fitness or nutrition space who wants to connect the dots between science, performance, and real life.
Chapters:
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00:00 Introduction and Early Career
- 02:37 Transition to Online Training
- 03:14 Balancing Research and Practical Application
- 06:53 Challenges in Research and Academia
- 09:05 Personal Struggles and Discoveries
- 11:18 Educational Journey and Career Decisions
- 16:02 PhD Research and Variability Analysis
- 18:43 Client Coaching and Variability in Training
- 25:16 High-Level Athletes and Nutrition
- 40:26 Metabolic Flexibility and Endurance Training
- 46:03 Balancing Carbohydrates and Fat for Marathon Training
- 46:49 Optimizing Training for Non-Professional Runners
- 51:55 The Role of Zone Training in Endurance Sports
- 55:00 The Importance of Setting Realistic Training Goals
- 01:00:13 Creating Effective Fitness Certifications
- 01:07:29 High Protein Diets for Muscle Gain and Recomposition
- 01:19:32 Personal Fitness Goals and Kiteboarding Adventures
- 01:26:12 Conclusion and Where to Find More Information
Much love,
Dr Mike
Dr. Mike T Nelson
PhD, MSME, CISSN, CSCS Carrick Institute Adjunct Professor Dr. Mike T. Nelson has spent 18 years of his life learning how the human body works, specifically focusing on how to properly condition it to burn fat and become stronger, more flexible, and healthier. He’s has a PhD in Exercise Physiology, a BA in Natural Science, and an MS in Biomechanics. He’s an adjunct professor and a member of the American College of Sports Medicine. He’s been called in to share his techniques with top government agencies. The techniques he’s developed and the results Mike gets for his clients have been featured in international magazines, in scientific publications, and on websites across the globe.
- PhD in Exercise Physiology
- BA in Natural Science
- MS in Biomechanics
- Adjunct Professor in Human
- Performance for Carrick Institute for Functional Neurology
- Adjunct Professor and Member of American College of Sports Medicine
- Instructor at Broadview University
- Professional Nutritional
- Member of the American Society for Nutrition
- Professional Sports Nutrition
- Member of the International Society for Sports Nutrition
- Professional NSCA Member
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