Ep. 456 Why Muscle Matters: Metabolism, Myths & More with Dr. Shannon Ritchey

Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow ™

I am delighted to have the amazing Dr. Shannon Ritchey joining me today. She is a doctor of physical therapy, a fitness trainer, and the founder of Evlo Fitness.

In this insightful conversation, we explore the complex landscape of social media and its influence on our perceptions of health and fitness, unpacking myths, stigmas, and societal conditioning. We dive into body recomposition, looking at the compare and despair trap of social media, the effects of fitness challenges, and the science behind muscle soreness and eccentric exercises. Dr. Ritchey explains how to measure body composition requirements accurately, how muscle supports metabolic health, and the results of different types of muscle fiber stimulation, and she also shares her thoughts on Zone 2 cardio, Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), nutrition, and more.

This discussion with Dr. Ritchey offers a wealth of information, and I look forward to welcoming her back for another conversation later this year.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

• Navigating the noise around fitness on social media
• Benefits of GLP-1s and some common misconceptions around GLP-1 use
• Why we need to find credible sources when looking for health advice
• Why it is crucial to start building muscle early to prevent future health issues
• Over-exercising affects your overall health
• Role of nutrition in body composition
• How social media can lead to unrealistic expectations around body image
• Is protein essential for muscle-building?
• How creatine supports muscle growth and cognitive health
• Some common micronutrient deficiencies, including magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3
• Why testing to determine specific needs for micronutrient deficiencies is important

Bio: Shannon Ritchey

Dr. Shannon Ritchey is a former physical therapist, a fitness trainer with over 15 years of experience, and the founder of Evlo Fitness. She educates on the science of exercise, specifically teaching women how to build muscle with less wear and tear on their bodies. Residing in Austin, Texas, but originally from Kansas, Shannon is a wife and mom to a daughter (and pregnant with a second!).

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow

• Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn
• Check out Cynthia’s website
• Submit your questions to [email protected]

Connect with Dr. Shannon Ritchey

• On the Evlo Fitness website
• The Dr. Shannon Show Podcast
• Instagram and TikTok