The NASM-CPT Podcast With Rick Richey

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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.

10H AGO

Hamstring Muscle Anatomy: Origin, Insertion & Function

🔔 Subscribe for expert fitness insights! Welcome to the NASM-CPT Podcast with Rick Richey, Emmy Award winner and your guide to the latest in functional anatomy, fitness education, and corrective exercise strategies. In this episode, Rick takes you on an engaging, easy-to-understand exploration of the hamstring muscles – perfect for personal trainers, corrective exercise specialists, and anyone serious about fitness optimization. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Hamstring Muscle Breakdown: Discover the three key hamstring muscles (semimembranosus, semitendinosus, and biceps femoris), their origins, insertions, and joint actions. Functional Anatomy Explained: Get a practical definition and real-world application of functional anatomy, including concentric, eccentric, and isometric contractions. Medial & Lateral Hamstrings: The “semi-sisters” vs. biceps femoris, plus easy mnemonics for remembering anatomy. Common Imbalances & Corrections: Hear how to spot and correct overactive lateral hamstrings (biceps femoris) and underactive medial hamstrings using targeted corrective exercises. Practical Fitness Tips: Learn Rick’s “diamond curls” technique and active hamstring stretches to address muscle imbalances and improve knee stability. Fun Etymology & Anatomy Facts: Enjoy Rick’s memorable stories, easy visuals, and clear explanations to make anatomy stick. Why Watch? Perfect for NASM students, CPTs, CES specialists, and fitness enthusiasts. Boosts your understanding of anatomy for safer, smarter workouts. Learn corrective exercise strategies for better client outcomes. Practical tips you can use immediately in your training or teaching. Hamstring etymology and history Muscle origins and insertions with visual mnemonics Joint actions: what hamstrings do and stabilize Corrective exercise application: step-by-step protocols Real-life stories for memorable learning Chapters & HighlightsIf 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

23 min
FEB 10

Strain vs. Sprain: Key Differences Explained

Do you know the real difference between a sprain and a strain? 🦵💥 On this episode of the NASM CPT Podcast, Rick Richey dives deep into the world of common injuries that every fitness professional—and gym-goer—should understand. Here’s what you’ll learn: · The clear definition of sprains vs strains · Which tissues are involved (ligament vs muscle) · Real-world stories from Rick’s martial arts & acrobatics days · The three grades of injury severity for both sprains and strains · Where (and why) these injuries most commonly occur, from ankles and knees to hamstrings and groin · Emergency protocols (like RICE and NSAIDs) for acute injuries · Tips on prevention: warm-ups, progressive strength training, and proper technique · How not warming up led to Rick’s memorable MCL and meniscus tear Whether you’re a certified personal trainer, a coach, or someone on the road to recovery, this episode is packed with practical advice and evidence-based recommendations to keep you healthy, strong, and moving forward. Why watch? If you want to KEEP TRAINING SMART, avoid the most common mistakes, and coach your clients confidently through injury risks—don’t miss this episode. Rick mixes expert-level insights with fun (and sometimes painful!) personal stories to keep you entertained and informed. 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more evidence-based fitness breakdowns! 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode!#NASM #PersonalTrainer #FitnessPodcast #Sprains #Strains #InjuryPrevention #RickRichey #CPT #FitnessTips #SportsMedicine #WarmUp #StrengthTraining 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

25 min
FEB 3

What Most Trainers Get Wrong About the Thigh Muscles

Welcome to another episode of the "NASM CPT Podcast," hosted by Sharecare Emmy Award winner Rick Richey! In this in-depth anatomy special, Rick dives into everything you need to know about the quadriceps muscles—the powerhouse of your legs. Whether you're a personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss. Episode Highlights: · Detailed breakdown of all four quadriceps muscles: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius · Origins, insertions, and joint actions explained in plain English · Discoveries about a potential fifth quadriceps muscle and what it means for anatomy geeks · Pro tips on stretching and training the quads for maximum performance and safety · Practical cues for your clients: how to identify quad activation and stretch effectiveness · Essential anatomy reminders for the NASM CES course and beyondRick also answers listener questions—shoutout to Jill W.!—and shares clinical pearls for trainers looking to level up their corrective exercise and anatomy knowledge. Plus, learn how recent research could change the way you think about the thigh muscles forever! Why Watch? · Clear, engaging explanations for professionals and students · Actionable fitness tips to apply right away with clients · Anatomy trivia gold for your next class or quiz night · Exclusive podcast perks and offers from NASM for members #NASM #PersonalTraining #Quadriceps #ExerciseScience #FitnessPodcast #Anatomy #CorrectiveExercise #RickRitchie #NASMCPT #FitnessEducation #QuadricepsMuscles #NewMuscleDiscovery #Stretching #LegDay #LegAnatomy #TrainerTips #Podcast Show References: Franchi, T. (2020) 'Tensor vastus intermedius: a review of its discovery, morphology and clinical importance', Folia Morphologica, (Preprint). Grob, K., Ackland, T., Kuster, M. S., Manestar, M. and Filgueira, L. (2016) 'A newly discovered muscle: The tensor of the vastus intermedius', Clin Anat, 29(2), pp. 256-63 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

21 min
JAN 27

What’s Really Changed in the New Food Pyramid?

Welcome to a breakthrough episode of the NASM CPT Podcast! This week, host Rick Richey sits down with Dr. Brad Dieter—exercise physiologist, molecular biologist, and nutrition science expert—to break down the updated Dietary Guidelines for Americans projected for 2025-2030. 🏆 Whether you’re a personal trainer, nutrition coach, or health enthusiast, this is your go-to guide for understanding the biggest shifts in nutrition advice and what it actually means for you and your clients. In This Episode:· The evolution of U.S. dietary models: From the classic Food Pyramid to MyPlate, and now, the upside-down pyramid explained· What’s changed (and what hasn’t) in the new guidelines· The REAL impact of dietary guidelines on people’s habits—and why they might not matter as much as you think· Protein demystified: Optimal daily intake, practical sources, and why the new recommendations align with current fitness trends· How to balance protein intake with saturated fat awareness and food quality· The science and controversy behind ultra-processed foods: Why “whole foods first” is more than just a trend· Practical tips for fitness pros to translate government nutrition advice into actionable, real-world coaching· Addressing food affordability, school lunches, and nutrition for the general population Key Questions Answered:· What do the new dietary guidelines mean for fitness professionals’ scope of practice?· How do you help clients hit nutrient targets without breaking the bank? · Are ultra-processed foods as bad as the headlines claim? · How can you boost client results using the latest nutrition science? 👉 Share YOUR thoughts: How will these new guidelines impact your approach to nutrition coaching or personal training? Drop your questions and experiences in the comments! ⭐️ Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and leave a 5-STAR review if you found value in this episode! Share this with your fitness community and help others stay ahead with the latest in nutrition science. #DietaryGuidelines #PersonalTraining #NutritionCoach #NASM #FitnessPodcast #ProteinIntake #WholeFoods #ProcessedFoods #DietTrends2025 #HealthCoaching #FitPro #NutritionTips 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

47 min
JAN 20

Squat Science: Debunking Myths About Foot Position, Depth & Muscle Activation

Unlock the secrets behind squat biomechanics in this must-listen episode of the "NASM CPTPodcast" with host, and NASM Master Instructor, Rick Richey. Whether you’re a fitness veteran or just starting your strength journey, this episode dives deep into the science—and myths—about squats, backed by the latest research. Curious about why your torso leans differently during squats, or how changing your foot position impacts muscle activation? Rick breaks down the impact of tibia-torso angles, foot position (should you turn your toes out?), and squat depth on your muscles and overall performance. Learn how “butt wink,” squat depth, and even partial squats play a role in hypertrophy and athletic performance—and what matters most for avoiding injury. Packed with evidence from studies like Barack et al. (2011) and Strab & Powers (2024), this episode smashes old rules and reveals how to tailor your squat technique for optimal results, safety, and YOUR body’s limitations. Worried about knee pain, back issues, or if deeper squats are better? The answers may surprise you! Plus, get actionable tips on how to assess and improve your range of motion, how personal anatomy affects squat form, and why consistency often beats perfection in your training routine. Episode References: Straub, R. K., & Powers, C. M. (2024). A Biomechanical Review of the Squat Exercise: Implications for Clinical Practice. International journal of sports physical therapy, 19(4), 490–501. https://doi.org/10.26603/001c.94600 Barrack Adam J, Straub Rachel K, Cannon Jordan, Powers Christopher M. International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching. 4. Vol. 16. SAGE Publications; the relative orientation of the trunk and tibia can be used to estimate the demands on the hip and knee extensors during the barbell back squat; pp. 1004–1010. 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. CTA: 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

29 min
JAN 13

Fresh Starts & Fitness: The Science Behind Motivation & Change

Start your year strong with Episode “New Year's Resolutions and Beyond” on the “NASM CPT Podcast,” hosted by Dr. Rick Richey. Wondering why so many fitness resolutions fail—and how to beat those odds? In this lively episode, Rick digs deep into the psychology of fresh starts, the real reason the gym is packed in January, and why trainers should embrace every newcomer, not turn them away. You'll learn the surprising science behind motivation versus commitment, and how an 80% failure rate for resolutions is actually a golden opportunity for trainers and clients alike. He shares practical strategies for breaking big goals into actionable mini-steps, the power of SMART goals, and how significant life events—like birthdays, job changes, or even medical diagnoses—can spark lasting transformation. Get inspired as Rick reveals his own resolutions, including business growth, personal development, and health—along with tips on making your goals stick and leveraging quirky daily milestones (hello, National Cream Puff Day!). Whether you're a fitness professional or just looking to finally follow through, this episode will leave you fired up and equipped with tools to make every day your “new you” day. Join the conversation on fitness motivation, the secrets of successful clients, and find out how to turn fleeting enthusiasm into rock-solid habits that last all year.Tune in now and get ready to inspire—and be inspired! 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

29 min
JAN 6

Breaking the Passion Myth: Honest Advice for Aspiring Fitness Entrepreneurs

Ready to break through the noise of “follow your passion” and hustle culture? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey sits down with featured guest, legendary fitness entrepreneur and longtime friend, Antoni Luke-Akagi, to challenge the biggest myths in fitness business—and unlock the real secrets to building success that lasts. Discover why “consistency beats talent”—and what that looks like, day after day, when you’re grinding it out as a trainer, studio owner, and serial entrepreneur. Antoni shares battle-tested wisdom from a career that’s spanned global fitness brands, launching his own Pilates and massage studios, and building innovative companies like Hot Boy Hot Sauce and topical CBD products. How do you know when a good idea is worth pursuing? And why does waiting for perfection just hold you back? You’ll hear straight talk on everything from social media authenticity (versus picture-perfect highlight reels) to the real power of referrals and building relationships in the fitness industry. Plus: how to find your niche, avoid paralysis by analysis, and keep your motivation high even when the grind gets tough.Whether you’re a trainer, business owner, or passionate about entrepreneurship, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, fresh perspective, and inspiration to act—now, not “when it’s perfect.” Hit play for an unfiltered conversation that could be the spark for your next big move in fitness and business.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your network! 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

44 min
12/30/2025

Encore Presentation: 10 Best Practices for Personal Trainers

Unlock the secrets to thriving as a personal trainer on this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” hosted by Rick Richey, Emmy-winning storyteller and industry expert. This encore presentation is a must-listen for both aspiring trainers and seasoned fitness professionals looking to elevate their careers and coaching impact. Curious about what separates the trainers who are gym legends from those who just clock in? Dr. Richey pulls back the curtain on his top ten actionable practices—from safety-first coaching and professional behaviors to authentic client communication and maintaining your edge with continuing education. Discover why professionalism and gym etiquette can make or break your business and hear candid stories (like how Rick met his wife at the gym—without being “that” trainer!) that reveal the real-world nuances of fitness training. This doesn’t just stop at technical tips; it goes deep into building trust, getting honest feedback, nurturing client relationships, and leading by example—even when things don’t go as planned. Plus, learn how to tailor your authentic self to connect with every client, and why supporting health goals beyond the gym is essential for sustained results. Whether you’re searching for practical strategies, relatable trainer stories, or just need a burst of motivation, tune in to discover what great personal trainers do differently—and how you can, too. Listen now, get inspired, and start transforming your personal training journey! 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

27 min

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4.8

out of 5

25 Ratings

Fun podcast!

02/12/2025

VJWild

I’m currently enrolled in the CPT program and when I found this podcast to help supplement my learning I was super excited. Rick Richey makes me laugh (ok, giggle uncontrollably) several times an episode while presenting the info with the utmost professionalism. If you’re are a CPT you have to give it a listen! You won’t be bored.
Why Not Me? Episode…

11/07/2023

bellcampo

I cannot express enough how much I love NASM and Rick Richey’s work. The way it met me in a place when I was in desperate need of a life/career change. Keep up the excellent work and inspiration Dr. Rick. I am a better CPT and person bc of your advice and experience you so willingly share! - Avery
Super Helpful Episode for CES

05/08/2023

JVhook

Rick does a great job of breaking down what I find to be a complicated topic. I was having trouble visualizing when reading the material in the book. Even though this is a podcast the examples used were very helpful. Thank you!
My First Review

02/07/2023

Red Belle 88

I highly recommend this podcast!!! I have never taken the time to write a review before, as the title would allude, but here we are. I am taking my CPT exam this weekend and it’s because of this podcast that I understand many of the concepts in the book. Listening to related episodes before reading and then again after really made everything come to life for me!