Decentralized Strength podcast

Energy Systems & Muscle Types Explained: Exercise Physiologist Dr. Elizabeth Wuorinen

Adam Oliver Episode 5

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0:00 | 1:02:54

Want to actually understand how your body produces energy during exercise — and why it matters for how you train?

In this episode, Adam sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Wuorinen, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Health Sciences at Northern Michigan University and exercise physiologist, to break down two of the most important and misunderstood topics in fitness: energy systems and muscle fiber types.

Whether you're a coach, athlete, or just someone who wants to train smarter, this episode gives you the science behind the work.

Topics covered:
• The three energy systems (ATP-CP, glycolytic, oxidative) and when your body uses each
• Fast-twitch vs. slow-twitch muscle fibers — what they are and how to train them
• What exercise physiology tells us about programming
• How to apply sports science to everyday training
• Dr. Wuorinen's research and work at Northern Michigan University

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Decentralized Strength is a strength and conditioning podcast hosted by Adam Oliver, CSCS — a certified strength and conditioning specialist documenting his evolving coaching philosophy and fitness journey. 

Each episode covers real topics: longevity training, youth athletic development, senior fitness, sports nutrition, exercise science, and the mindset behind building lasting strength. 

No fluff, no trends — just honest conversations with coaches, scientists, and athletes who've done the work. New episodes quarterly. Subscribe so you don't miss one.

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