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The NASM-CPT Podcast With Rick Richey: Daily Summaries Delivered
by NASM Podcast Network
Are you studying to become a personal trainer or just started your training career? NASM Master Instructor Rick Richey takes listeners on an informative and engaging journey to help establish a solid foundation in your fitness path.
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- 2 days ago47 min
Lisa’s Ranch: Where Healing & Fitness Collide
How can personal trainers truly support clients battling cancer and chronic conditions? In this powerful episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey sits down with Lisa Dougherty, founder of the MedFit Education Foundation and Gratitude Ranch, to discover how medical fitness can make a life-changing impact. Lisa shares her deeply personal journey through a rare cancer diagnosis, the emotional rollercoaster of treatment, and the creation of her unique wellness retreat for those with life-threatening illnesses. Learn how trainers can use empathy, heart rate variability, and adaptive approaches to guide clients through their toughest challenges — and why presence, purpose, and personalized care matter more than any workout. Key Takeaways: · How personal trainers can adapt for clients facing cancer and medical diagnoses · The power of HRV (heart rate variability) in programming and recovery · The importance of emotional support and purpose during illness · What makes medical fitness training essential in today’s health landscape · Behind-the-scenes of MedFit Education & Gratitude Ranch Connect with Lisa Dougherty: · Gratitude Ranch · MedFit Classroom: Courses for Medical Fitness Professionals 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
- 1 weeks ago54 min
MRI Says You're Fine—but You Still Hurt?
Are you or your clients struggling with low back pain? 🤔 Whether you’re a fitness professional, physical therapist, or someone seeking relief, this episode is packed with expert insights you can’t afford to miss! Join award-winning personal trainer and “NASM CPT Podcast” host Rick Richey as he sits down with renowned physical therapist, Pete Schultz, to break down everything you NEED to know about low back pain. Discover the real causes, get past the myths, and learn practical insights to help you move better and stay pain-free. 🔥 In This Episode: · The different types of low back pain explained: disc herniation, muscle strains, spinal stenosis, facet joint issues, SI joint hypermobility, and nociplastic (neuroplastic) pain · Signs, symptoms, and real-life examples that demystify each condition · How imaging like MRIs and X-rays often miss the full picture—and what really matters · The often-overlooked role of the nervous system, stress, and the biopsychosocial model in chronic pain · Why personal trainers should avoid panicking—and what to do when a client says, "My back hurts!" · Actionable strategies for safe exercise, movement screening, plus red flags and referral guidance🎯 Perfect for: · Personal trainers and fitness coaches · Physical therapists & healthcare professionals · Anyone dealing with chronic or recurring low back pain · Students and enthusiasts interested in sports science & injury prevention 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
- 2 weeks ago52 min
Reduce Back Pain with Strength Training: Stefi Cohen’s Guide
Are deadlifts bad for your back? Why do some people get injured lifting weights while others don't? Can resistance training actually reduce pain and injury risk? Find out in this can’t-miss episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast” featuring Dr. Stefi Cohen — 27-time powerlifting world record holder, pro boxer, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and founder of the Institute of Strength Training. Host Dr. Rick Richey and Stefi dive deep into: · The biopsychosocial model of pain and why pain isn’t always about tissue damage · The real difference between “injury” and “pain” and what that means for your workouts · Stefi’s personal story overcoming chronic back pain — and what REALLY works for recovery · Why your mindset can amplify or dampen pain signals (backed by neuroscience!) · How to avoid the most common training mistakes that lead to injury · Proven strategies for building resilience, managing training load, and keeping clients (and yourself) strong and healthy · Why deadlifts and other barbell movements aren’t inherently dangerous — plus evidence-based tips to use them safely · Actionable advice for trainers and everyday lifters on progressing after injury, breaking the pain-avoidance cycle, and becoming a “movement optimist ”Don’t miss Stefi’s expert insight on: · Foam rolling, manual therapy, and pain relief hacks that work · How to safely return to intense training after injury · Using resistance training to reduce pain from osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions · Busting the top fitness myths holding you back from your strength goals 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
- 3 weeks ago59 min
Strength, Endurance…But Why Both at Once?
In this episode, host Rick Richey answers a common question for fitness pros and enthusiasts: “Why do we train for strength endurance?” He unpacks the science and strategy behind the OPT model’s three levels—stabilization, strength, and power—and explains exactly what makes the strength endurance phase unique. You’ll discover: · ✅ The key goals of strength endurance training · ✅ How it’s different from standard strength or endurance phases · ✅ Real-world exercise examples you can use with your clients TODAY · ✅ Why supersets and volume matter for optimal results · ✅ Tips for maximizing both strength and stability in your workouts Whether you’re a personal trainer preparing for your NASM CPT exam, a fitness coach looking for program inspiration, or anyone serious about building muscle, endurance, and total-body stability, this episode is for you! 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
- Jun 30, 202616 min
Pyramid or Reverse Pyramid: Which Lifts Your Gains?
Are you wondering if pyramid or reverse pyramid training is best for your strength and hypertrophy goals? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” award-winning personal trainer and industry leader Dr. Rick Richey dives deep into the science—and practical application—of pyramid, reverse pyramid, and drop set training schemes. 🔍 What’s Inside: · The differences between pyramid and reverse pyramid sets · Five popular pyramid training variations explained · Research findings comparing pyramid, reverse pyramid, drop set, and traditional strength training · Real-world advice for trainers and fitness enthusiasts—what the science says and why personal preference matters · Top tips for finding the best workout for your clients (even when research points another way!) 🧠 Whether you’re a fitness pro looking for evidence-based program design or someone just trying to maximize your workouts, you’ll get actionable answers to one of weightlifting’s most debated questions: Pyramid or reverse pyramid—what actually works best? Show References: Ribeiro, A. S., Schoenfeld, B. J., Fleck, S. J., Pina, F. L. C., Nascimento, M. A., & Cyrino, E. S. (2017). Effects of Traditional and Pyramidal Resistance Training Systems on Muscular Strength, Muscle Mass, and Hormonal Responses in Older Women: A Randomized Crossover Trial. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 31(7), 1888–1896. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000001653 Angleri, V., Ugrinowitsch, C., & Libardi, C. A. (2017). Crescent pyramid and drop-set systems do not promote greater strength gains, muscle hypertrophy, and changes on muscle architecture compared with traditional resistance training in well-trained men. European journal of applied physiology, 117(2), 359–369. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-016-3529-1 Enes, A., Oneda, G., Leonel, D. F., Ramos, R. A., Kvas-Cabral, V. C., Bernardo, M. F., Escalante, G., & Souza-Junior, T. P. (2023). Drop-Set Resistance Training versus Pyramidal and Traditional Sets Elicits Greater Psychophysiological Responses in Men. Perceptual and motor skills, 130(4), 1624–1643. https://doi.org/10.1177/00315125231176729 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
- Jun 23, 202615 min
Should You Use Circuits for Muscle Development? NASM Advice
Are you training clients for muscular development and wondering if circuit training is truly the best way to build muscle? Or should you focus on traditional strength methods for maximum gains? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” Dr. Rick Richey breaks down the science behind circuit training vs. horizontal loading, revealing which strategy is optimal for muscle growth—and why! 🏋️♂️✨ 🔥 Episode Highlights: · Should you use circuits or straight sets for hypertrophy? · The difference between vertical (circuit) vs. horizontal (standard) loading · How the OPT Model supports optimal progression for muscle development · Practical recommendations for trainers: Sets, reps, and rest intervals · Tips for avoiding excessive soreness, especially for beginners and older clients · How to keep your clients progressing safely and effectivelyRick spills real-world wisdom and actionable tips that are perfect for personal trainers, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone ready to take muscle-building to the next level. 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
- Jun 16, 202654 min
Top Challenges of Running a Fitness Business in 2024
Welcome to a special crossover episode! Join renowned fitness expert and “NASM CPT Podcast” host Rick Richey, as he sits down with long-time NASM colleagues, and close friends, Wendy Batts and Ken Miller on the award-winning "Random Fit" podcast. 🎧 What You'll Discover in This Episode: · Behind the Mic: Dive into the challenges and creative process behind the NASM CPT Podcast, from content creation to audience engagement. · Success as a Fitness Professional: Learn how Rick balances running multiple businesses—gyms, recovery studios—and his personal training clients while remaining a top educator in the fitness space. · Industry Evolution: Hear Rick’s take on the biggest shifts in fitness, like the rise of virtual training and recovery science, plus the renaissance of kettlebells. · Secrets to Trainer Excellence: Discover what separates a good trainer from a great one in today’s evolving wellness industry—and why connection, basics, and lifelong learning matter most. · Entrepreneur Insights: Rick opens up about the realities of gym ownership, including the often-overlooked pitfalls and practical advice for personal trainers hoping to start their own facility. · The Future of Recovery: Explore breakthrough recovery techniques beyond stretching and foam rolling—think infrared saunas, pneumatic compression, and sleep optimization. · Personal Stories & Honest Advice: Rick and his longtime NASM colleagues swap lessons learned from decades in the industry, including what Rick wishes he knew at the start of his career. 🌟 Whether you're a personal trainer, fitness entrepreneur, NASM student, or just passionate about health, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories you can’t 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! 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
- Jun 9, 202633 min
Joint Actions Explained: Flexion, Extension, Rotation & More
Welcome to the “NASM CPT Podcast” with Rick Richey! In this value-packed episode, Rick breaks down the essential joint actions of the human body—a must-listen for anyone studying for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer exam, fitness professionals, or anyone eager to master functional anatomy and human movement science. 👉 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: · What are joint actions and why do they matter for movement and exercise? · The three key planes of motion: sagittal, frontal, and transverse · Definitions and practical examples of flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, circumduction, protraction, retraction, elevation, depression, and more · Specialty movements specific to the scapula, foot, and ankle (inversion, eversion, pronation, supination, dorsiflexion, plantar flexion) · Real-world tips to understand, cue, and identify joint actions for better client results · How to avoid common misconceptions in exercise scienceWhether you’re reviewing for your CPT, diving into corrective exercise, or refreshing your anatomy knowledge, this episode will help you understand the language of human movement in a clear, applicable way. 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
About The NASM-CPT Podcast With Rick Richey
Are you studying to become a personal trainer or just started your training career? NASM Master Instructor Rick Richey takes listeners on an informative and engaging journey to help establish a solid foundation in your fitness path.
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