The Tim Ferriss Show #797 · February 24, 2025 · 2h

Dr. Keith Baar — Simple Exercises That Can Repair Tendons, Collagen Fact vs. Fiction, Isometrics vs. Eccentrics, and The Anti-RICE Protocol

Dr. Keith Baar — UC Davis tendon and ligament researcher. The gelatin + vitamin C protocol for tendon repair. Why RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) is wrong. Isometrics vs. eccentrics. Practical, research-backed protocols for common injuries.

Highlights

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Gelatin + vitamin C for tendon repair

Baar's research: 15g gelatin with vitamin C 30-60 minutes before exercise increases collagen synthesis.

Claude ChatGPT Gemini

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The anti-RICE protocol

RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) is outdated. Loading and movement heal tendons better than rest.

Claude ChatGPT Gemini

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Isometrics vs. eccentrics for tendon health

Isometrics for pain management, eccentrics for long-term remodeling. Different tools for different stages.

Claude ChatGPT Gemini

Misc

✧Baar is the leading tendon/ligament researcher — his gelatin protocol is widely cited in sports medicine

✧Collagen supplements: most are poorly sourced. Gelatin is cheaper and works as well

✧Growth hormone vs. IGF-1 discussion — JAK inhibitors as emerging intervention