Muscles By Brussels Radio!

Are you all in or all out when it comes to your fitness and nutrition? In this episode, Giacomo and Coach Ben unpack the sneaky ways black-and-white thinking shows up in routines, training plans, and even your meal prep. We’re talking perfectionism, fear of change, identity attachment, and why you might be too loyal to your oatmeal and tofu scramble.We explore how being a creature of habit can be a superpower—but also a trap when it stops you from evolving. Giacomo shares how sticking to “his foods” became more about mental bandwidth than macros, and Ben explains why flexibility inside structure is the real key to progress.If you’ve ever felt like missing one workout or going off-plan means you've "ruined everything," this one’s for you.✨ Helpful Links and Resources:

In this episode, Dani and Giacomo sit down to unpack the striking similarities among some of the most well-known vegan doctors out there—think Greger, Esselstyn, Barnard, McDougall, and the like. While their personalities and branding might differ, there’s a surprising amount of overlap in their core messages. We’re talking about what they all agree on, where they diverge, and how this impacts everyday vegans trying to figure out what the hell to eat. Expect a mix of nerdy nutrition talk, respectful critique, and a few laughs as we break down the science, the hype, and the human side of plant-based health.✨ Helpful Links and Resources:

In this special (and slightly jet-lagged) episode, Dani and Giacomo record straight from Brussels, Belgium—and no, the podcast name Muscles by Brussels wasn’t inspired by Jean-Claude Van Damme.  They reflect on their European travels through Amsterdam, Heidelberg, and now Brussels, sharing real talk on what it’s like to stay plant-based while abroad. They discuss the difference between travel for work vs. actual vacation, why they’re not tracking macros on this trip, how they try to weave in fitness habits without stressing, and the subtle-but-important label differences between vegan and vegetarian foods across countries. Have you traveled as a vegan? Let us know your tips and stories—we’d love to hear them!✨ Helpful Links and Resources:

In this episode, Dani and Ben explore what it really takes to build discipline — and why borrowing lessons from military training isn't as simple as it sounds. They break down the difference between external and internal motivation, the role of routines and rituals, and how everyday civilians can cultivate true mental toughness without needing a drill sergeant. Whether you're trying to build healthier habits or simply hold yourself to a higher standard, this conversation offers practical (and realistic) strategies to help you level up.

In this insightful episode, Ben and John dive deep into the nuanced world of coaching natural and enhanced athletes. From mindset shifts to prep challenges, they unpack key strategies and misconceptions in physique competition prep. Whether you're a coach, competitor, or curious fitness enthusiast, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and practical wisdom.

Will a vegan future happen because of ethics—or innovation? In this episode, Robert and Dani discuss the role of technology, government subsidies, and shifting consumer behavior in shaping the future of food. They also explore how small, consistent choices add up and why doing some good is better than doing nothing at all.

In this episode of Muscles by Brussels Radio, Ben and Giacomo dive deep into the psychology of snacking, muscle building, and maintaining mindful nutrition. They explore how to adjust your mindset, navigate fatigue and boredom, and implement practical strategies to improve your relationship with food, regardless of whether you are trying to build muscle or cut body fat.

In this episode, Dani and Sawyer break down the slow but rewarding process of body recomposition. They discuss why strength progression is a key indicator of muscle growth, the importance of pushing yourself in the gym, and how to apply progressive overload effectively. Plus, they share insights on balancing good form with training intensity.Watch this episode on YouTube 

Dani and Sawyer break down the essentials of nutrition and training, explaining why consistency matters more than chasing perfection. They discuss the benefits of tracking protein and calories, the pitfalls of fitness fads, and how to build sustainable habits for long-term success.

In this episode, Alice and Giacomo dive into what it really takes to build muscle on a plant-based diet. They discuss realistic timelines for muscle gain, as well as realistic amounts of weight gain necessary for progress. They also touch on common plateaus, how to push past them, and the importance of staying patient with the process.

Today, Giacomo and Alice dive into the importance of balanced nutrition and protein intake, especially for those with fitness goals. They share practical tips on structuring macronutrients, making nutritious meals enjoyable, and gradually increasing protein intake to meet individual needs. The conversation also explores how social media and the fitness industry can shape our perceptions of health and nutrition—sometimes in misleading ways. Plus, they emphasize the 80/20 approach to eating, helping you stay on track while still enjoying your favorite foods.

In this episode, Ben and Sawyer discuss the importance of understanding fitness principles and staying flexible in your training approach. They share their experiences with experimenting—whether it’s incorporating more cardio, trying intermittent fasting, or exploring new activities like Ultimate Frisbee. Sawyer emphasizes the value of stepping outside rigid routines and feeling confident in making adjustments. They also highlight the benefits of good coaching and how it can empower individuals to train smarter. Tune in for practical insights and a fresh perspective on keeping fitness fun and sustainable!

In this episode, we dive into the complex and often sensitive topic of body weight, fitness, and societal perceptions. We discuss the realities of weight stigma, personal responsibility, and how different struggles—whether visible or not—impact our lives. With personal insights and an open conversation, we aim to navigate this subject with honesty and empathy. Join us as we explore what it means to be real with ourselves about health, lifestyle choices, and the effects they have on our well-being.

In this episode, we dive into the importance of nutritional awareness and learning to listen to your body's signals in both diet and training. We discuss how tracking macros can be a valuable tool for understanding calorie density and satiety—but it’s not something you need to rely on forever. Plus, we break down the balance between progressive overload and knowing when to adjust your training based on recovery and readiness. Our goal as coaches is to help you build sustainable habits, develop autonomy in your fitness journey, and make these skills second nature.

In this episode of Muscles by Brussels Radio, Ben and John dive into the essentials of training and cardio for bodybuilders, athletes, and anyone aiming to improve their fitness. They discuss machine-based training for precision, the value of cardio for health and performance, and how to balance steps with intentional movement. Plus, they explore advanced techniques like lengthened partials and share practical tips for optimizing workouts based on personal goals. Whether you're a seasoned lifter or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to level up your routine!Follow Us:

How do you gain more confidence? In this episode, Ben & Giacomo explore the importance of finding intrinsic motivation, and how focusing on daily improvements rather than arbitrary goals can foster both competence and confidence.

Are you a pusher or a slacker? You might be surprised to hear that we don’t think one is necessarily better than the other. Join Dani & Alice for a conversation on working with these opposing personality types.

In this episode we will debunk the most common vegan protein myths. Have you heard any others we didn’t cover? Let us know!

What a year! Our team has grown and evolved, and our community is stronger than ever. In this episode we take some time to reflect on 2024 and look at future plans.

How does a bodybuilder transition between the different phases of competition prep? Join Dani & Ben for a deep dive on cutting and bulking.