The NASM-CPT Podcast With Rick Richey

Esports athletes need performance coaching just like traditional sports players, and NASM-certified experts are helping meet those demands. In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” you will learn how fitness and performance principles apply to professional gamers, and why professional teams invest in esports coaches for optimal results. Host Rick Richey talks with NASM-certified head coach and performance trai...

The muscles responsible for extending the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee are the latissimus dorsi, gluteus maximus, triceps, and quadriceps, along with several assisting muscles in each movement. This “NASM CPT Podcast” episode answers the popular question, "Which muscles extend your shoulder, hip, elbows, and knees?" Host Rick Richey breaks down the primary and secondary muscles involved in these...

Muscles that flex major joints are the key focus of this “NASM Podcast,” where listeners learn exactly which muscles are responsible for flexing the shoulder, hip, elbow, and knee, as well as how to distinguish between primary and secondary movers at each joint. In this clear, anatomy-driven review, host Rick Richey breaks down functional anatomy to answer the question: "What muscles flex the body...

The best way to handle professional opportunities in fitness is to stay open-minded, say yes to potential meetings, and view every opportunity as a chance to learn or connect. In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” listeners will learn practical strategies to recognize, create, and seize opportunities in their careers, whether those chances are offered by others or need to be sought out proactively. Host Ric...

The most effective way to reduce visceral fat is a combination of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training, though regular moderate-intensity cardio or aerobic exercise also helps, according to current research. In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey unpacks the scientific evidence on exercise strategies for reducing visceral fat, addressing frequent con...

Clients spend much more time and money on personal training than just the actual session fees, once you factor in taxes and the extra time around workouts. In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey explores what it truly costs clients to train with a personal trainer, revealing that for every $100 spent on training, a client may need to earn far more due to taxes and related expenses. He also e...

Personal trainers can protect their careers and well-being by taking specific steps to avoid self-sabotage, such as managing their workload, prioritizing self-care, planning financially, investing in continuing education, and preparing for business growth. In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey break down the ten most important ways trainers need to protect themselves from making common mist...

Personal trainers can improve client outcomes by understanding and applying different learning theories such as pedagogy, andragogy, and heutagogy. This “NASM CPT Podcast” explains how trainers are not just coaches but educators who need to tailor their approach based on whether a client learns best through directive instruction (pedagogy), adult facilitation (andragogy), or self-directed learning...

To succeed when training elite MMA fighters and athletes in high-demand, high-risk sports, coaches must balance sport-specific preparation with intelligent recovery and individualized strategies that prevent overtraining and support safe weight management. In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey talks with guest Brandon Harris, a UFC performance coach and founder of Premier Fit...

The main difference between professional and amateur personal trainers is that professionals consistently follow up with clients, maintain organized and effective communication, and focus on purposeful, client-centered training practices. In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey breaks down ten key habits and strategies that separate dedicated career trainers from less experienced or casual co...

You cannot choose where your body loses fat, because spot reduction is a myth. In this “NASM CPT Podcast” episode, host Rick Richey answers the real questions behind common client concerns about fitness and weight loss. Drawing on trusted research and practical experience, Rick explains why you lose fat according to your unique body patterns, not by targeting certain areas with specific exercises....

Resistance training can significantly improve cardiovascular health in older adults by lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as offering unique benefits like increased muscle strength and quality. In this “NASM CPT Podcast” episode, host Rick Richey reviews the latest meta-analyses and systematic reviews, sharing practical insights on how resistance training helps manage hyp...

Are wearable devices like Fitbits, Apple Watches, and fitness trackers really worth it? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey dives deep into the science and practical truth behind modern wearable tech. 🎧 Listen as Rick covers: ·      The REAL accuracy of step counts, heart rate, and calorie burn measurements ·     ...

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 emotio...

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 abou...

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 Ri...

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...

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 p...

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! 🏋️♂️✨ 🔥 Ep...

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 c...

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...

Are you tired of the classic gym question, "What rep am I on?" In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” award-winning personal trainer Dr. Rick Richey tackles the timeless debate between trainers and clients: why is counting reps so tricky? Discover proven strategies to master counting, build client trust, and elevate your personal training game. 🏋️♂️ Topics Covered: ·      Why clients distrust...

Ready to pack on muscle and transform your physique? In this special encore episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” Rick Richey breaks down proven resistance training variables YOU need to know for optimal muscle growth! 💪Discover: ·      ESSENTIAL resistance training variables: sets, reps, tempo, rest periods, and more ·      The truth about muscle soreness & why it’s NOT a reliable indicator of grow...

Are you obsessed with post-workout soreness? Wondering if being sore means you’re making true fitness gains? On this episode of the NASM CPT Podcast, award-winning personal trainer Rick Richey exposes the myths around muscle soreness, progress, and recovery in strength training. What you’ll learn in this episode: ·      Why muscle soreness (DOMS) is NOT a true indicator of progress or muscle growt...

Welcome to the “NASM CPT Podcast!” In this power-packed episode, host Rick Richey sits down with Team USA Olympic boxer and NABF Lightweight Champion Amelia Moore to uncover the REAL strategies behind elite boxing success. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Amelia’s journey from childhood martial arts to becoming a pro boxing champion How she leverages the NASM OPT model for strength, conditioni...