The NASM-CPT Podcast With Rick Richey

NASM Podcast Network
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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.

  1. 3D AGO

    Do You Plan Workouts—or Just Wing Them?

    Unlock the secrets to building effective long-term fitness programs! In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” Rick Richey, award-winning personal trainer and industry leader, breaks down the essentials of exercise programming to help both new and experienced trainers elevate their coaching game. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: ·      How to get started with structured programming for clients ·      The difference between macro, meso, and micro cycles ·      Step-by-step review of the NASM OPT Model ·      Practical tips to apply linear vs. undulating periodization ·      Real-world insights for helping clients reach their fitness goals Whether you’re a personal trainer looking to move beyond random workouts or you need guidance on goal-driven programming, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Discover how to create a clear path for client success—no matter if you’re working with new or current clients! ⏰ Key Topics Covered: ·      Why “random” sessions hold your clients back — and what to do instead ·      Using the macro cycle as your long-term blueprint ·      How to break down client goals into manageable mesocycles and micro cycles ·      Applying the NASM OPT Model: phases from stabilization to power ·      When to use linear or undulating periodization for maximum results 💥 For Fitness Pros and Enthusiasts: Perfect for NASM students, CPTs, coaches, and anyone committed to fitness excellence! Understand how science-backed programming keeps you and your clients motivated, progressing, and thriving. 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

  2. APR 28

    Is the Client Always Right in Personal Training?

    Are your clients always right—or is there more to successful personal training relationships? 🧐 In this episode of the award-winning “NASM CPT Podcast,” Dr. Rick Richey dives into the real-life communications that make or break the trainer-client dynamic.Discover how a simple miscommunication between a client and trainer almost derailed progress and learn Rick's expert tips for ensuring both honesty and progress in every session. From dealing with long-term injuries and pushing limits to actionable strategies for open communication, this episode is packed with stories, insights, and practical advice for personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts alike! 🔑 Episode Highlights & Keywords: ·      Is the client always right? Debunking the myth ·      Must-know communication strategies for personal trainers ·      Real client-trainer email case study ·      Preventing and managing miscommunications in fitness ·      Building safe, supportive, and motivating workout environments ·      How to push clients without crossing the line ·      The real reason clients quit personal training (hint: It's not money!) ·      Creating fitness surveys & debriefs that get honest feedback 🎧 Who Should Watch? ·      Personal trainers & coaches ·      Fitness professionals ·      Gym owners & managers ·      Anyone looking to level up their trainer-client relationship  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

    24 min

  3. APR 21

    Top 10 Ways to Keep Fitness Clients from Leaving

    Are your personal training clients dropping off? Want to boost retention, deliver more value, and become the trainer everyone raves about? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey — award-winning personal trainer and industry leader — reveals his Top 10 Strategies to Keep Clients from Leaving. 🏆 What You’ll Learn: ·      The REAL reasons clients leave (and what you can do to prevent it) ·      Proven communication techniques to build trust and loyalty ·      How to use client surveys for honest, actionable feedback ·      Creating value that justifies your pricing ·      The importance of professionalism and boundaries in every session ·      Powerful follow-up habits that foster long-term relationships ·      Why letting a client go (at the right time) can actually strengthen your business 🔥 Whether you’re new to personal training or a seasoned fitness pro, these strategies will help you: ·      Increase client lifetime value ·      Grow your referral base ·      Enhance your reputation as a results-driven, client-focused trainer  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

  4. APR 14

    Are You Eating Enough Protein to Actually Build Muscle?

    Are you struggling to build muscle or lose weight? Wondering how much protein you really need to see results? On this award-winning episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” Rick Richey dives deep into the science of protein intake for muscle growth, bodybuilding, and effective weight loss! 🎙️ Episode Highlights: ·      NEW vs OLD RDA guidelines: What’s changed and why it matters for muscle builders ·      How much protein do you need to build muscle? ·      The truth about protein timing and the anabolic window ·      Whey protein vs collagen: Which is superior for muscle gain? ·      Essential amino acids & leucine: The KEY to unlocking muscle protein synthesis ·      Protein’s role in appetite control and the thermic effect of food for fat loss ·      Common myths debunked: Is high protein bad for your kidneys?📊 Featuring Real Science & Practical Advice: ·      How to hit your protein target—meal ideas & supplementation tips ·      When more protein won’t help (hint: if you’re not training) ·      Why increased protein intake helps preserve lean muscle while losing fat 🔑 Perfect For: ·      Personal trainers ·      Bodybuilders & athletes ·      Anyone wanting real results in the gym ·      Fitness enthusiasts curious about nutrition science 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

    28 min

  5. APR 7

    Calf Anatomy and Function for Fitness Trainers

    Unlock the secrets behind your lower leg muscles! In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” award-winning trainer and host Rick Richey dives deep into the anatomy and function of the calves — exploring why these muscles are sometimes called the "second heart" and revealing how they impact your movement, performance, and overall health. What you'll learn: ·      Calf muscle etymology: Discover the fascinating origins of the words "calf," "gastrocnemius," and "soleus." ·      Muscle anatomy breakdown: Understand the structure, origins, and insertions of the gastrocnemius and soleus, and how they form the powerful triceps surae. ·      Joint actions & biomechanics: Find out how the calves play crucial roles in knee flexion, plantar flexion at the ankle, running, and explosive athletic movements .·      Best exercises for calves: Learn which calf exercises target each muscle — from standing and seated calf raises to squats — and why they're essential for strength and function .·      Calves: Your "second heart": Discover how regular calf activation aids circulation, fights blood pooling, prevents swelling, and reduces health risks during long periods of sitting or travel. ·      Sport performance tips: Improve speed and turnover with simple cues and optimization techniques for runners and athletes.Why watch this episode? ·      Supercharge your fitness knowledge with insights from Rick Richey, NASM industry leader and Gold Marcom award-winning podcast host. ·      Upgrade your training techniques with actionable advice to keep your clients (and yourself) thriving. ·      Perfect for personal trainers, athletes, runners, and everyone curious about functional anatomy! 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

    23 min

  6. MAR 31

    Top 10 Reasons to Become a Personal Trainer

    🚀 Why Should You Become a Personal Trainer? 10 Powerful Reasons Revealed!Welcome to the “NASM CPT Podcast,” featuring award-winning host Rick Richey! In this dynamic installment Rick dives deep into his personal top 10 reasons to become a personal trainer. Whether you’re considering a career in fitness, already studying for your CPT exam, or simply need motivation to stay in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights you can’t afford to miss. What You’ll Learn: ·      The REAL #1 reason people become personal trainers—and why it’s so much more than a free gym membership ·      How personal training enables you to help clients get stronger, smarter, and more confident ·      The countless ways to specialize—from performance coaching to corrective exercise, weight loss, and working with seniors or special populations ·      Turning your passion into a profitable career: side hustle AND six-figure possibilities! ·      The power of autonomy, mastery, and purpose in your work-life balance ·      Building community and giving back—discover how trainers lift entire neighborhoods ·      Creating, sharing and monetizing content as a certified trainer (social media, workshops, podcasts, and more) ·      Stepping up to mentorship and entrepreneurship: open your own gym, coach others, and shape the industry Why Watch This Episode? If you’ve ever wondered “Is personal training a good career?” or “How can I make a difference AND earn a living in fitness?”—this episode gives you the answers, inspiration, and actionable steps! Rick Ritchie shares his own journey, pitfalls, and practical advice so you walk away motivated, informed, and ready to level up. Highlights: ·      Introduction & top 10 overview ·      Deep dive into each reason, including personal stories and advice·      How to get started, make money, specialize, and grow your impact ·      Building content and joining the trainer community ·      Advice for aspiring fitness entrepreneurs  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

    31 min

  7. MAR 24

    Calories In vs Calories Out: Why It Doesn’t Work Alone

    Ever been told “weight loss is just math — calories in vs. calories out”? 🚫 Not so fast! In this groundbreaking episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” award-winning trainer Rick Richey dives deep into the real factors affecting weight management — and trust us, it’s way more complex than a simple equation. 🎙️ In this episode, you’ll learn: Why weight loss isn’t just about eating less and moving more The role of hormones (like ghrelin & leptin) in controlling hunger, satiety, and fat storage What adaptive thermogenesis is — and how your body can fight your progress Why coaching, support, and a holistic approach are more important than “the math” How sleep, stress, age, sex, menopause, and medical conditions impact results The truth about “blaming” clients when the numbers don’t add up The myth of passive systems and basic math explained Case studies: Thyroid issues, menopause, and diabetes as weight factors How your body resists fat loss — and why willpower alone isn’t enough Simple meal prep & food logging tips that actually help Why professional support goes beyond just diet and exercise plans [Whether you’re a fitness coach or someone on a wellness journey, this episode will transform how you think about calories, metabolism, and overcoming weight loss plateaus. Stop feeling stuck! Empower yourself with real-world insights to finally break through your barriers.] 📝 Key Moments: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

    22 min

  8. MAR 17

    How GLP-1 Medications Helped Jamie Selzler Lose 370 Pounds

    Welcome to the “NASM CPT Podcast,” where award-winning trainer Rick Richey is joined by featured guest, Jamie Selzler—a fitness coach who overcame obesity and lost an astonishing 370 pounds! In this episode, Jamie opens up about his personal weight loss journey, the power of GLP-1 medications, battling emotional eating, and how he now inspires others as a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach, and wellness coach. Timestamps & Highlights: ·      Jamie’s heaviest weight and initial struggles with mobility ·      The emotional toll & social stigma of living in a larger body ·      The real impact of “representation” in gyms and fitness spaces·      GLP-1 medications: what trainers need to know for client support ·      Sustainable habit formation and the importance of enjoyable exercise ·      Jamie’s coaching approach: individualized plans, lasting change, and bridging clients into gym environments ·      How to create welcoming fitness spaces for all sizes and ages ·      Trainer biases, the need for compassion, and why movement matters more than body weight Key Takeaways: ·      Fitness is for Everybody: Jamie’s story proves anyone can reclaim their health, no matter the starting point. ·      GLP-1 Medications & Weight Loss: Discover how modern pharmacology is changing the game for people struggling with obesity—and what trainers need to know. ·      Overcoming Roadblocks: Jamie shares practical strategies to handle setbacks, loose skin, emotional challenges, and more. ·      Empowerment through Representation: Why seeing trainers of all shapes, sizes, and ages makes gyms more inclusive–and attracts more people ready to change their lives. Who Should Watch? ·      Anyone struggling with weight or seeking inspiration·      Personal trainers, fitness coaches, nutritionists ·      Wellness professionals looking to better support clients ·      Viewers interested in GLP-1 medications, obesity, and sustainable fitness 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

    53 min
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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.

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