On this episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, welcomes featured guests, renowned authors, Katy Bowman and Diana Hill, to discuss their new book, "I Know I Should Exercise, But..." This insightful conversation dives deep into the challenges people face when it comes to building a sustainable movement practice. Rather than focusing solely on exercise routines, Rick, Katy, and Diana explore a broader and more inclusive approach to physical activity, emphasizing the power of movement throughout daily life. Listeners will discover actionable strategies to overcome common roadblocks, from lack of time and motivation to body image issues and environmental barriers. Katy, a biomechanist, brings fascinating expertise on how everyday movement shapes our health, while Diana, a leading clinical psychologist, shares tools from acceptance and commitment training (ACT) to build psychological flexibility and self-compassion. This episode is a must-listen for fitness professionals, personal trainers, and anyone struggling with the "I know I should exercise, but..." mindset. Rick and his guests unveil practical tips for integrating movement into daily routines, reframing exercise as a self-care practice, and connecting movement with individual values to create lasting behavior change. Whether you’re an avid exerciser or just beginning your wellness journey, this episode will help you shift your perspective and empower you to move more—without the pressure of grinding gym routines. Guest Bios: Katy Bowman, M.S.  Founder of the movement education company Nutritious Movement Host of the “Move Your DNA” podcast Author of eleven books, which have sold more than 350,000 copies in English and been translated into 17 other languages. Her work has been featured by media including The New York Times, The Guardian, NPR, CBC Radio, Seattle Times, Good Housekeeping, Outside, The Joe Rogan Experience, and The TODAY Show. She has worked with companies including Patagonia, Nike, and Google as well as a range of non-profits and other organizations Diana Hill, PhD. Clinical psychologist and a leading expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Author of The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, ACT Daily Journal, and the upcoming book Wise Effort, Host of the “Wise Effort” podcast She contributes regularly to Insight Timer, Mindful.org, and Psychology Today. Her work has also been featured by media including NPR, The Wall Street Journal, Woman’s Day, and Real Simple If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Ready to land your first personal training job?In this episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey, winner of the Sharecare Emmy Award, breaks down everything you need to know to ace your gym interview—whether you’re a fitness newcomer or a seasoned pro. Rick shares his own story (including a memorable mug-selling challenge!), gives practical advice, and outlines six core steps to help you stand out. Discover how to research the gym’s mission, vision, and values, and why aligning your answers to the company culture matters. Get actionable tips on building a compelling resume—even if you lack experience—preparing your social media presence, networking with current trainers, and dressing for the role. Rick emphasizes the importance of practicing answers to common interview questions and being ready to demonstrate your skills on the spot. Learn what sets successful trainers apart, why first impressions count, and how to highlight your personal strengths—even if your only “client” so far is a friend or family member. Rick also details the keys to follow-up after your interview, including crafting the perfect thank-you note. If you’re prepping for a gym interview or looking to hire trainers yourself, this episode is packed with must-have insights for making a lasting impression. Tune in, level up your interview skills, and start your fitness career with confidence! If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey takes listeners on an engaging, in-depth exploration of the quads—the powerful muscles of the front thigh affectionately known as "thunder thighs" and “Quadzilla." Rick dives into the fascinating anatomy and function of the quadriceps muscle group, breaking down its four key components: the vastus lateralis, vastus intermedius, vastus medialis (including the notable vastus medialis obliquus or "VMO"), and rectus femoris. Listeners will learn the meaning behind the "quad" name, discover the origins and attachment sites of each muscle, and understand why these muscles are considered a group yet remain distinct in structure and function. Rick masterfully explains joint actions such as knee extension and hip flexion, the unique role of the rectus femoris as a two-joint muscle, and how the design of the quadriceps provides mechanical advantages for movement. Practical guidance also awaits, including tips on properly stretching the quads and understanding how and why certain stretches target different parts of the muscle group. Dr. Richey shares relatable analogies, memorable mnemonics, and everyday fitness advice, making complex biomechanics easy to understand and apply. Whether you’re a fitness professional, athlete, or just curious about how your legs work, this episode delivers valuable insights with Rick’s trademark humor and clarity. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your feedback as you delve into the science—and fun—of the leg muscles that power us all! If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey takes a deep dive into the surprising benefits—and occasional pitfalls—of running a mile a day. Recalling those dreaded school PE mandates to “run the mile,” Rick explores how this accessible and straightforward form of exercise can transform health for people of all fitness levels. Drawing from current physical activity guidelines and peer-reviewed studies, Rick reveals that even just five to ten minutes a day of slow running can significantly lower all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risks. But he’s quick to weigh both sides, outlining possible risks like joint pain, stress fractures, and the importance of listening to your body, especially if you have existing conditions or are just starting out. Rick also shares practical strategies for beginners, emphasizing that you don’t need to start by running—walking is a perfectly valid entry point, and he discusses intermittent versus continuous walking for better fitness outcomes. He highlights the value of ramping up intensity gradually, tracking your progress, and allowing for proper recovery and nutrition. The monologue presentation touches on the Daily Mile initiative, which encourages everyone (regardless of age or fitness) to complete a mile a day at any pace, emphasizing inclusion and consistency. Beyond the physical, Rick explores mental health benefits, urging listeners not to fear the mile and instead see it as a gateway to improved well-being. Tune in for actionable tips, research-backed encouragement, and inspiration to make the mile your own. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey takes a deep dive into one of the body’s most impressive and misunderstood muscle groups: the trapezius, a.k.a. the "Goldberg muscles." Inspired by the awe-inspiring traps seen on athletes like Bill Goldberg, Rick explores the anatomy, function, and training strategies for building strong and balanced traps. Whether you’re fascinated by the layered look of a jacked upper back or eager to optimize performance and prevent injury, this episode breaks down everything you need to know. Rick meticulously guides you through the upper, mid, and lower segments of the trapezius, explaining their proximal and distal attachment points (origin and insertion), their unique fiber directions, and the intricate joint actions they control. Learn how each section contributes to essential movements like scapular elevation, retraction, depression, and upward rotation—plus tips for effective cueing to target these muscles in your training and with clients. Rick also shares practical exercise applications and important considerations for safely stretching and strengthening the neck and traps, ensuring your workouts are safe and effective.Whether you’re a seasoned fitness pro or just starting out, you’ll walk away with fresh insights and actionable tips for training the traps. Keep inspiring others to pursue fitness—one muscle at a time. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, welcomes featured guest, Joe Drake, CEO and founder of Axiom Fitness Academy, for an essential deep dive into one of the biggest questions new personal trainers face: “How do I actually build a program for my first client?” Rick and Joe pull back the curtain on this universal struggle, sharing real experiences from their own journeys both in training and educating fitness professionals. You’ll learn practical, confidence-building steps for taking your knowledge from NASM’s OPT model and applying it in the gym—without overcomplicating things or falling into the trap of trying to impress with flashy exercises. Instead, Rick and Joe stress the importance of mastering the basics, focusing on major movement patterns (squatting, lunging, pushing, pulling, and hinging), and building repeatable templates tailored to each client’s frequency and needs. The discussion is packed with actionable tips, including how to keep programming simple, when and how to individualize, and why tracking progress (like keeping a PR chart) matters more than constant variety. Rick and Joe also discuss finding the balance between what clients want and what they need and highlight resources inside NASM’s new Membership platform—NASM1—for trainers seeking further step-by-step programming guidance. If you’re a new or aspiring trainer feeling stuck between theory and practice, this conversation is for you. Tune in and take the guesswork out of your programming journey—one authentic trainer story at a time. Joe Drake, MS, NASM-CPT, CES, PES is a veteran personal trainer, educator, and the founder of Axiom Fitness Academy—a leading certification prep and mentorship platform for aspiring and certified fitness professionals. With nearly 20 years in the industry and over a decade training trainers, Joe helps coaches build confidence in programming, master client relationships, and turn their passion into a sustainable business. He is also the author of The Complete Guide to Landmine Training and a trusted voice on strength training for longevity, continuing education, and bridging the gap between certification and real-world success. Whether you’re a new trainer or scaling your career, Joe offers powerful frameworks that simplify programming, elevate your coaching, and help you stand out in a crowded fitness industry. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more.: https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey welcomes featured guest, Dennis Dunphy, co-founder of Stick Mobility, for an insightful conversation about one of fitness’s biggest hot topics: mobility training. Rick kicks off by sharing how Stick Mobility tools have become a staple in his gyms, not just for their versatility, but also the unique feedback and durability they offer, especially compared to traditional PVC or broomsticks. Together, Rick and Dennis dive into the importance of developing mobility and strength beyond just the sagittal plane, highlighting commonly neglected areas like the frontal and transverse planes, rotational movements, and the elusive “spiral line” that, as Dennis says, “isn’t spiraling” for many people. Dennis shares the origin story of Stick Mobility, from early experiments with rattan sticks and isometrics to product innovation and global reach—plus how the Cincinnati Bengals gave their stamp of approval. Listeners will learn why mobility has become more than just a buzzword in fitness, why it matters at every age, and how improving hip and spinal mobility can make everyday activities—like getting in and out of a car or reaching for a high shelf—easier and less painful as we age. Tune in for practical tips, inspiration, and ideas to make mobility a priority in your fitness routine! If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

It’s time to further explore that large, popular muscle that sits on the top of the arm. On this “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, deep dives into all things involving, and around, the bicep. He’ll explore the origin of the word, “biceps,” explain the two proximal attachments, and discuss why that ice cream scoop bicep has more to do with your genetics than how much time you spend in the gym. Get your bicep knowledge base flex on, courtesy of Dr. Richey. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Let’s get your week kicked off just right with a deep dive into Greek alphabet. On this episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, explores the large, triangular shoulder muscle, named because its shape resembles the Greek letter, Delta. Dr. Richey discusses the three distinct heads of the muscle (anterior, lateral, and posterior), as well as the actions of the deltoids with specific examples to help expand your personal training, and anatomy, expertise. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

This episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast” focuses on how moving side to side can help move your fitness forward. Host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, along with featured guests, Brrrn Co-Founders Johnny Adamic, and Jimmy T. Martin, explore all facets of lateral training, why slides boards have become so popular with all different fitness enthusiasts, building and developing their unique Brrrn brand, and much more in this special encore presentation! If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Let’s talk about the need for understanding speed. In this “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, is joined by featured guest, Bill Parisi, founder of Parisi Speed School and Fascia Training Academy. The two deep dive into discussions like the power of mental resiliency and how adding in speed and athletic training can not only make you a better trainer but also build your business. Plus, how Parisi’s accomplishments as a javelin thrower spear-headed his passion for a greater understanding of speed for high-level athletes, how his biggest setback led to his biggest comeback, and much more! If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, takes listeners on an engaging deep-dive into one of the body’s most impressive muscles: the latissimus dorsi, better known as the “lats.” Inspired by a nostalgic memory of “Saved by the Bell” and the phenomenon of “Imaginary Lat Syndrome” (ILS), Rick sets the stage for a fascinating exploration of what gives this muscle its reputation as the “wings” of the back. Listeners get a breakdown of the lat’s Latin etymology, anatomical structure, attachment points, and how it functions across multiple planes of movement. Rick discusses the muscle’s proximal and distal attachments, touching on its connection to the spine, ribs, ilium, and even the scapula, before it sweeps under the arm to the humerus. He demystifies terms like the intertubercle groove and shares a memorable trick— “the lady between two majors”—to help trainers remember the order of muscle attachments. Rick explains the fundamental rules of muscle movement, clarifying why muscles only pull, never push, and describes which actions the lats control, including shoulder adduction, extension, and internal rotation. He relates these concepts directly to practical exercises, breaking down the differences between lat pull-downs, rows, and the nuances of movement planes. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey gets personal and practical, diving deep into the anatomy and significance of the pectoralis major—better known as the “pecs.” Rick opens up about his own childhood experiences and how a formative (and embarrassing) classroom moment inspired his obsession with building his chest muscles. Through relatable stories and a few laughs, Rick connects personal transformation with anatomical education. Listeners will learn the etymology of the pectoralis major, the Latin roots of its name, and why understanding muscle attachments is foundational to good training. Rick expertly breaks down the pec’s structure—including its multiple points of attachment on the sternum, clavicle, and ribs—and explains how its fan-shaped muscle fibers allow for various directional movements. He demystifies key joint actions like horizontal adduction, flexion, and internal rotation, and highlights how certain exercises, such as bench presses at different angles, target upper, middle, or lower pec fibers. Rick also busts some common gym myths, clarifying why you can’t “isolate” just the inner or outer pecs, and emphasizes the importance of proper technique and functional anatomy for trainers. With practical insights and memorable rules for muscle function, this episode is a must-listen for fitness professionals and enthusiasts alike. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

Everybody loves a list, right? Well, break out your trusty note pad because this one you’ll want to save and pass along to your clients as to what they need to know, as well as a few pointers to help you reach your fitness goals, as well. In this episode of the “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rich Richey, shares his top 10 tips – including asking for help, putting your ego aside, just getting started, celebrating small wins, and more.Listen up and take notes, class. Rick’s latest knowledge drop is one you surely won’t want to miss! If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey tackles a common but often confusing challenge for new trainers: how to design a workout plan from start to finish. Rick walks listeners through the foundational steps of preparing effective, client-centric workout programs. Starting with the importance of assessments (both subjective and objective), he explains how gathering information on client goals, physical measurements, and movement patterns sets the stage for targeted programming. Rick breaks down the process, mapping it onto the OPT (Optimum Performance Training) model, covering stability, strength, and power phases. He shares practical tips, like planning macrocycles (big-picture programming for several months), using linear and undulating periodization, and visually sharing plans with clients to boost motivation and retention. Listeners learn the nuts and bolts of structuring a session: from customized warm-ups (including foam rolling and stretching) to movement prep, activation, balance, plyometrics, and resistance training. Rick emphasizes tailoring exercises to client preferences and avoiding disliked movements, which helps foster a positive experience and adherence. He also shares ideas on integrating cardio intervals with client choice for variety and enjoyment in this special encore presentation. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

On this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey explores an essential question for fitness professionals and clients alike: “How ready are you—or your clients—to exercise on your own?” Rick introduces the readiness ruler, a motivational interviewing tool designed to assess both the importance and confidence behind fitness goals. He breaks down why non-exercise activity throughout the day often burns more calories than traditional gym sessions, highlighting the value of everyday movement for both weight management and overall health. Rick shares actionable SMART goals around movement, from aiming for 7,500 steps a day to picking up the pace for at least 3,000 of those steps. He emphasizes the holistic benefits of physical activity, including substantial reductions in the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes—independent of weight loss. Learn how to use the readiness ruler with clients: find out what’s truly important to them and assess how confident they feel about reaching those goals. Rick offers practical tips for personal trainers to support clients both in and out of the gym, helping them adjust goals to fit their lifestyles. Tune in for evidence-based advice and strategies that empower individuals on their fitness journey—one step at a time. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey takes a deep dive into the critical role of sleep in overall health, wellness, and fitness performance. Inspired by his recent study of the Certified Wellness Coach certification and a lively text exchange with his family, Rick uncovers why sleep might be the most underrated element in reaching fitness goals. He debunks the myth that functioning on little sleep is a badge of honor and shares National Sleep Foundation guidelines for optimal sleep across age groups. Rick explores how sleep impacts vital processes such as brain cleaning through the glymphatic system, memory consolidation (both declarative and procedural), weight management, and muscle growth. Backed by research, he details how lack of sleep can lead to weight gain by disrupting hormones like leptin and ghrelin, increase hunger, reduce insulin sensitivity, and even hinder muscle recovery due to lower testosterone, growth hormone, and IGF-1 levels. Listeners will also get practical sleep hygiene strategies—from limiting caffeine and minimizing nighttime light exposure to implementing effective bedtime routines. Rick even explores the power of napping and when it can boost memory or aid in recovery after a rough night’s sleep. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey takes listeners behind the scenes of what it really takes to open a gym—no sugarcoating, just real numbers and honest advice. Building upon his recent conversation with fitness industry mogul Mark Mastrov, Rick brings his own hard-earned experience to the mic, offering practical insights for aspiring gym owners. Rick breaks down the nitty gritty: how much money you truly need (it’s more than you think), the difference between capital and operational expenses, and the often-overlooked costs of things like HVAC units, rubber flooring, repairs, mirrors, lighting, laundry, and even towel logos. He stresses the importance of planning for both the build-out and the ongoing costs that keep your doors open, sharing stories from his own path to gym ownership—including why having six months of operating capital is non-negotiable. From negotiating leases and dealing with banks, to understanding freight costs for equipment and the reality of a slow start once you open, Rick’s candid perspective prepares listeners for the rollercoaster of gym ownership. He explains why some might be better off starting with a franchise, and why the coolest part of owning a gym can sometimes be the hardest to maintain. If you’re considering opening your own facility or just want a raw look at entrepreneurship in fitness, this episode is a must-listen. Rick doesn’t aim to discourage—just to arm you with the truth, so you’re ready to succeed. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey sits down with legendary fitness entrepreneur, Mark Mastrov, the visionary behind brands like 24 Hour Fitness, Crunch, and UFC Gym. Rick, himself a successful gym owner, seeks inspiration and real-world insights into the challenges and rewards of gym ownership. Mark shares his journey from humble beginnings as a part-time trainer to building global fitness empires, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and building effective teams. Listeners are treated to practical advice on entering the fitness business, weighing capital investment options, choosing between franchises and independent concepts, and key considerations for ensuring success—like legal advice, marketing skills, and understanding P&Ls. Mark underscores the immense value of education for trainers, highlighting NASM's role in raising professional standards, and shares data proving that educated trainers drive member retention and business growth. The conversation delves into the crucial synergy of nutrition and fitness in client results, and Mark recounts how partnerships with pioneers like Neal Spruce and programs like DotFit helped integrate nutrition education into his clubs. Aspiring gym owners and fitness professionals will appreciate Marc’s candid take on the realities of entrepreneurship, the importance of scalability, and the need to truly understand your market. This episode serves as both a motivational roadmap and a grounded reality check for anyone dreaming of making a bigger impact in the fitness industry. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm

When the mailbag has questions, we have answers. On this “NASM-CPT Podcast,” host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey, discusses how important tier systems are within personal training services at a gym. Dr. Richey explains why gyms prioritize three main things: education, time with the company/time as trainer, and your ability to produce clients. He also deep dives into the three tiers of trainers, why trainers have different prices, why they get different specializations in their continuing education and much more. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm