In this episode we revisit with Andrew Harvot and Daniel Palacios of Advanced Muscle Mechanics (AMM). We dig into the science behind the bench press, look at three peer-reviewed studies, and explore what happens when we start questioning something most of us have never thought to question: the bench itself. The pair go into a deep dive on how changing the surface an athlete presses from might influence scapular retraction, shoulder mobility, power, and performance. And they wrap up by sharing some exciting news about a new product available very soon, Joint Ops.

Andrew Harvot is the co-owner of AMM. He grew up in a family with a strong sports background with his early years marked by a deep involvement in football and baseball. Despite not being the most towering figure on the field, Andrew relentlessly pursued strength and speed to compensate for his lack of height. This drive led him to discover his passion for working out at the age of 13, and since then, Andrew has remained a dedicated lifter for over 23 years, accumulating a wealth of experience in the world of fitness.

Recognizing the need for innovation, Andrew embarked on the journey to address design flaws of the traditional bench and contribute to the evolution of fitness equipment. This endeavor culminated in the invention of The Launch Pad, a groundbreaking solution aimed at revolutionizing the way individuals approach strength training. The Launch Pad represents a synthesis of Andrew's extensive experience, educational background, and unyielding commitment to elevating the standards of strength and conditioning.

Dan Palacios is a strength, conditioning and personal performance coach and founder of Live Kinetically. Dan has 10 years of experience working with all manner of clients from elite athletes to young children and adults with special needs. With over 11 years spent with real people who have faced unimaginable odds, Dan has come to understand human condition and it's undeniable relation to biology as well as bio-mechanics. Dan's goal is to guide and inspire people to redefine the meaning of health. To make humanity stronger and more resilient, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually is his primary mission. Dan lives by the creed, Live Kinetically, to improve daily and life better for himself and those around him.

You can order from advancedmusclemechanics.com and save with code "jon20".

In our new series on peptides, fitness and wellness expert Kevin Kearns explains what peptides are and how they should be used while separating fact from fiction about the science behind them.

After losing his father at a young age, Coach Kearns gravitated toward mentors who assisted him through adversity. He now has over 35 years of fitness experience and has trained 15 MMA athletes as a Top 5 UFC Conditioning Coach.

With BWK Authentic Edge, Kearns adds his knowledge about peptides to his deep understanding of how to help individuals achieve their performance, athletic, fitness, and competitive goals.

At Burn With Kearns, Coach Kearns offers personal training and inspirational transformation throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and greater New England. He also helps folks worldwide through Zoom or phone consultations.

Dan Severn is a pioneering figure in combat sports, known for his dominance in both mixed martial arts and professional wrestling. Since his high school days in Coldwater, Michigan, Severn built his athletic foundation as an accomplished amateur wrestler, earning All-American honors at Arizona State University. He rose to prominence in the early days of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, where his grappling-heavy style and physical strength earned him the nickname, "The Beast." Severn became a two-time UFC tournament champion and later captured the UFC Superfight Championship, helping lay the foundations for the sport during its formative years with his disciplined, wrestling-based approach.

Beyond MMA, Severn achieved notable success in professional wrestling, becoming a rare athlete to bridge the gap between "the octagon" and "the squared circle". He held the NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship for over four years, one of the longest reigns in the title's history, and also competed in WWE during the late 1990s. Known for maintaining his amateur wrestling persona, Severn brought a unique authenticity to pro wrestling, rarely straying from his real-life fighting style. With a career spanning decades and a legacy rooted in toughness, versatility, and credibility, Severn remains one of the most respected figures in combat sports history.

From his home base in Arizona, Dan continues to help athletes of all ages and stays busy assisting others to reach their goals. To reach him regarding training or other ventures, he can be emailed at dan@dansevern.com.