#144 - Phil Maffetone: Optimizing health and performance through maximal aerobic function

Summary

In this episode of The Drive podcast, host Peter Etia interviews Phil Maffetone, an author, coach, and health practitioner who has written books on exercise, sports medicine, biofeedback, and nutrition. Maffetone's background is in biology, chiropractic, Chinese medicine, and kinesiology. The conversation covers Maffetone's journey as an athlete and coach, the importance of maximal aerobic function and fuel partitioning, and training strategies for long-distance running races like the six-day race.

Maffetone developed the MAF test to measure functional fitness, which was not just for athletes, but for the average person as well. He also developed the concept of balancing fitness and health, as he saw many athletes who were fit but unhealthy. Maffetone's definition of aerobic and anaerobic exercise was based on fat burning versus glucose burning, and he developed a heart rate range to help people train their bodies to burn more fat.

The concept of Maximum Aerobic Function (MAF) is to develop a powerful aerobic system by utilizing fat oxidation in the mitochondria. The goal is to individualize the heart rate by subtracting the age from 180 and modifying it based on health and fitness needs. The formula is adjusted based on factors such as medication, illness, and overtraining. The key is to follow the formula and be honest.

The speaker discusses his approach to training athletes and building their aerobic system. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating the athlete's schedule and goals into their training plan. He also explains the concept of a maximum aerobic function (MAF) heart rate and how training at this heart rate can improve performance. The speaker notes that by focusing on building the aerobic system and increasing fat burning, athletes can perform better at sub-maximal and maximal efforts.

The conversation then shifts to the topic of the sub-two-hour marathon and a book written in 2014 that predicted its possibility. The conversation explores the factors that could contribute to achieving this feat, including nutrition and hydration. The author also discusses the burnout of elite runners and the potential for more effective training to yield even better results.

Overall, the speaker's approach prioritizes the athlete's health and well-being while still improving their performance. They emphasize the importance of individualization and holistic approaches in their work.