#105: Evidence Based vs Anecdotal : What Actually Works

2025-12-26

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Most people think fitness decisions should be driven by studies alone or by experience alone, and that assumption is hindering progress. In this episode of The Supra Human Show, Ryan Stevens, Dr. Taylor Waters, and Ben Olliver break down how research is actually conducted, why studies are often misinterpreted online, and where real-world coaching experience fills the gaps science cannot. They explain the difference between statistical significance and meaningful results, how context changes whether advice applies to you, and why the best outcomes come from blending evidence, pattern recognition, and critical thinking. If you want to make smarter training and nutrition decisions without getting trapped in absolutes, this conversation gives you a clearer framework for what actually works in real life.

(00:00) introduction

(03:24) Why Studies Are Flawed in Practice

(04:01) “Statistically Significant” vs Real World Significant

(10:05) How One Study Shaped Years of Advice

(14:50) The Real Filter Coaches Use: Adherence and Practicality Beat “Optimal”

(16:13) Why Evidence Is Always Behind Real World Experimentation

(29:00) Coaching Is Science Plus Application

(30:38) The Only Bias That Matters: Results

(38:01) A Perfect Example of Uncontrolled Variables

(39:21) The Practical Rule: Try It, Measure It, Keep What Works if It Is Safe

(45:27) Even Labs Make Mistakes

When it comes to your training or nutrition, are you more evidence based or experience based? leave your answer in the comments.

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