Mikkipedia Expanding Metabolic Flexibility: Training for Chaos with Dr. Mike T. Nelson
Oct 7, 2025
Dr. Mike T. Nelson, a leading fitness and nutrition educator, dives into the intricacies of metabolic and physiological flexibility. He outlines four key pillars: temperature, pH, fuels, and air, discussing their roles in enhancing adaptability. Mike explains the benefits of cold plunges and saunas, emphasizing their psychological and physiological impacts. He also explores acid buffering, breathing techniques, and the nuances of CO2 tolerance. Tune in for practical insights on training for chaos and improving resilience in everyday life!
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Cross‑Adaptation Across Stressors
- Cross‑adaptation can occur: training one stressor may improve tolerance to another (e.g., cold exposure reduces perceived threat of hypoxia).
- Such overlaps suggest shared mechanisms linking different physiologic pillars.
Sauna Acclimation Helped A Hot Run
- Mikki used sauna work before a hot Grand Canyon run and noticed improved heat tolerance for her partner.
- Short acclimation periods (weeks) can significantly enhance temperature resilience for events.
Reframing Lactic Acid And Lactate
- 'Lactic acid' is a mischaracterized label; lactate and hydrogen ions are the real products, and hydrogen ions drive acidity.
- Lactate itself is a valuable fuel for brain, heart, and slow‑twitch muscle fibers, not the cause of soreness.
