NASM Master Instructor Roundtable: A Show for Personal Trainers

NASM Podcast Network
  • 4.6 (25)
  • Fitness
  • Updated Weekly

Are you looking at taking your training career to the next level? NASM master instructors Marty Miller and Wendy Batts each week explore and engage in a variety of topics, training techniques and tidbits for fitness professionals and enthusiasts.

  1. 3d ago

    How the LESS Test Reveals ACL Injury Risk in Athletes

    The main question this episode answers is: What is the LESS (Landing Error Scoring System) test, and how can fitness professionals use its research-based assessment to reduce ACL injury risk in clients, especially when considering anticipated versus unanticipated movement? The LESS test is a movement assessment that helps identify lower extremity dysfunction and ACL injury risk by evaluating how clients land from a jump, whether they know what to expect (anticipated) or are reacting to new stimuli (unanticipated). NASM experts Wendy Batts and Marty Miller break down recent, peer-reviewed NASM research from the open-access Journal of Fitness, Wellness, and Human Performance to demonstrate how to accurately use the LESS test with athletes and everyday clients. This “Master Instructor Roundtable” guides listeners through the test’s setup, scoring system, practical applications, and the science supporting both anticipated and unanticipated testing situations. Listeners will learn how to integrate this assessment safely, score it correctly using video, and interpret results to inform program design that decreases ACL and other lower limb injury risks. By the end of the episode, fitness professionals will be equipped to decide when and how to use the LESS test and adapt their programs for better, safer movement performance. Chapters: 00:00:05 What is the LESS test and why is it important for injury risk?00:01:43 How does the LESS assess lower extremity function for athletes and non-athletes? 00:03:12 Why is power training and assessment needed for all clients?00:05:18 How is the LESS test set up and what exactly does it measure?00:08:13 What are the preconditions for using the LESS safely and effectively? 00:09:05 Who developed and validated the LESS and what is its research foundation? 00:14:55 What is the difference between anticipated and unanticipated LESS testing? 00:16:30 How does the LESS test scoring system work and what do scores mean? 00:22:31 Why does unanticipated movement increase ACL injury risk according to the research? 00:26:38 How can trainers use LESS results to design better injury-prevention programs? 00:33:59 What practical strategies can I use to apply LESS research in my client sessions? 00:34:16 What types of unanticipated reactive training can reduce real-life injury risk? Show References: Hewett, T. E., Myer, G. D., Ford, K. R., Heidt, R. S., Jr, Colosimo, A. J., McLean, S. G., van den Bogert, A. J., Paterno, M. V., & Succop, P. (2005). Biomechanical measures of neuromuscular control and valgus loading of the knee predict anterior cruciate ligament injury risk in female athletes: a prospective study. The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 33(4), 492–501. https://doi.org/10.1177/0363546504269591 Padua D.A, DiStefano L.J, Beutler A.I, de la Motte S.J, DiStefano M.J, Marshall S.W. (2015). The Landing error scoring system as a screening tool for an anterior cruciate ligament injury-prevention program in elite-youth soccer athletes. Journal of Athletic Training, 50(6), 589-595. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-50.1.10 Silvers-Granelli, H. J., Bizzini, M., Arundale, A., Mandelbaum, B. R., & Snyder-Mackler, L. (2017). Does the FIFA 11+ injury prevention program reduce the incidence of acl injury in male soccer players? Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research, 475(10), 2447-2455. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11999-017-5342-5 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. Aug 11

    Zone 2 Cardio Benefits for Longevity & Brain Health

    Are you skipping the most important cardio zone without even knowing it? In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” NASM Master Instructors Marty Miller and Wendy Batts reveal why Zone 2 cardio is the real game-changer for anyone looking to boost fitness, brain health, and longevity—no matter your age or athletic level! What You'll Learn in This Episode: Zone 2 Cardio Explained: The science and benefits behind moderate-intensity steady-state exercise How to Accurately Test Your Cardio Zones: Practical insights on VT1, VT2, talk tests, and why old-school formulas don’t work Mitochondrial Health & Longevity: How steady-state cardio regenerates your body at the cellular level and supports lifelong independence Brain Benefits: Discover BDNF, the “Miracle-Gro” for your brain, and how the right cardio can transform mental sharpness Programming for Results: Evidence-based strategies and protocols you can apply instantly, with treadmill, bike, rower, and more Debunking Cardio Myths: Why “more is better” thinking can actually stall your progress Whether you're a personal trainer, health enthusiast, or just want to stay active and independent as you age, this episode is packed with research-backed advice and actionable tools to help you get the most out of every workout! Show References:Meixner,B., Filipas, L., Holmberg, H., Sperlich, B. (2025). Zone 2 intensity: A critical comparison of individual variability in different submaximal exercise intensity boundaries. Translational SportsMedicine, Article 2008291.   https://doi.org/10.1155/tsm2/2008291Sutton, B. (2021). NASM essentials of personal fitness training (7th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning. Sorenson, E. (2021, August 25). Master instructor roundtable: Five stages of cardiorespiratory training [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6uvq-8KSr3s Sorenson, E. (2021, September 10). Master instructor roundtable: An in-depth look at cardio assessments [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JorphuGKU8g Ramos-Jiménez, A., Rubio-Valles, M., Ramos-Hernández, J. A., González-Rodriguez, E., & Moreno-Brito, V. (2025). Adaptations in mitochondrial function induced by exercise: A therapeutic route for treatment-resistant depression. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(17), Article 8697. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26178697 Sitko, S., Artetxe, X., Bonnevie-Svendsen, M., Galán-Rioja, M. Á., Gallo, G., Grappe, F., Leo, P., Mateo, M., Mujika, I., Sanders, D., Seiler, S., Zabala, M., Valenzuela, P. L., & Viribay, A. (2025). What is zone 2 training?: Experts’ viewpoint on definition, training methods, and expected adaptations. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 20(11), 1614-1617. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2024-0303 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. Jul 28

    10 Common Mistakes by Beginner Personal Trainers

    Are you new to the fitness world or looking to level up your personal training expertise? In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosted by award-winning NASM Master Instructors Wendy Batts and Marty Miller—we dive deep into the top 10 mistakes beginners make at the gym and in training programs. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned trainer helping clients break through plateaus, this episode is packed with actionable tips and science-backed strategies you don’t want to miss! 🎧 What You’ll Learn: The REAL reasons why beginners struggle to see results and how to correct course fast Why skipping your warm-up could increase risk of injury by 30-50% The importance of mastering technique BEFORE adding weight How poor progression and lack of clear programming lead to plateaus Why recovery and proper hydration are critical for muscle growth and fat loss How to set realistic goals and celebrate small wins to stay motivated Pro insider advice on tracking workouts, structuring effective programs, and avoiding information overload from social media Who is this episode for? Beginners in fitness and those starting their first gym routine Personal trainers, fitness coaches, and health professionals Anyone wanting science-based solutions for better results and fewer injuries Show References:Fradkin, A. J., Zazryn, T. R., & Smoliga, J. M. (2010). Effects of warming-up on physical performance: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 24(1), 140–148. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181c643a Small, K., McNaughton, L., & Matthews, M. (2008). A systematic review into the efficacy of static stretching as part of a warm-up for the prevention of exercise-related injury. Research in Sports Medicine, 16(3), 213–231. https://doi.org/10.1080/15438620802310784 Warneke, K., Plöschberger, G., Lohmann, L. H., Lichtenstein, E., Jochum, D., Siegel, D. S., Zech, A., & Behm, D. G. (2024). Foam rolling and stretching do not provide superior acute flexibility and stiffness improvements compared to any other warm-up intervention: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 13(4), 509–520. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2024.01.006  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

  4. Jul 14

    How Recovery Became the Fitness Game Changer

    Discover the future of recovery, wellness, and fitness performance in this powerhouse episode! Join NASM Master Instructors, hosts Wendy Batts, and Wendy Batts, as they sit down with Star Sage, VP of Business Development at Hyperice, to explore the groundbreaking innovations transforming recovery from a luxury perk for pro athletes to an essential pillar for everyone. ⏩ WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: The evolution of the recovery industry and why every trainer & client should care How Hyperice’s cutting-edge products (Normatec compression boots, Hypervolt, Venom, and more) work—and who really needs them Simple, scientific ways to explain recovery tools to clients (and boost their buy-in) The difference between percussion, dynamic air compression, static compression, and how they compare to sports massage Why “pre-covery” (pre-workout recovery) is as critical as post-workout routines The secret business advantage of adding recovery stations for trainers & gym owners How meditation and biofeedback are changing the recovery landscape Real-life, actionable tips to attract new clients, increase retention, and stand out in the fitness industry  🎯 Perfect for: Personal trainers & coaches Fitness enthusiasts & athletes Gym owners & managers Physical therapists & rehab specialists Anyone passionate about human performance, recovery, or wellness tech  Whether you're a personal trainer, allied health professional, or studio owner, this discussion (catch the entire conversation on the NASM ONE coaching app), will arm you with expert secrets to build lasting, profitable partnerships—and deliver top results for your clients. 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

  5. Jun 30

    Networking Strategies for Personal Trainers & Physicians

    Unlock the secrets to expanding your fitness business and elevating client success! In this exclusive episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” NASM master instructors Wendy Batts and Marty Miller, along with leading industry experts Dr. Ed Davila (Internal Medicine Physician), Dr. Scott Cheatham (Sports & Orthopedic Physical Therapist), and Mike Fantigrassi (Head of Product, NASM) reveal actionable strategies for bridging the gap between fitness and healthcare. 🎧 Episode Highlights: How to Connect with Local Physicians & Physical Therapists for mutual referrals Building a Value-Driven Network: Tips for confident outreach and proven relationship-building techniques Exercise as Medicine: Why holistic approaches are revolutionizing both fitness and medical fields Partnership Models that Work: Real-world collaborations between gyms, trainers, and medical practices Concierge Medicine & Wellness: How boutique approaches are changing the industry Win-Win Collaborations: Examples of gyms bringing healthcare in-house (like Lifetime Fitness!) How to Become the Go-To Expert in your area and grow your reputation for excellence Whether you're a personal trainer, allied health professional, or studio owner, this discussion (catch the entire conversation on the NASM ONE coaching app), will arm you with expert secrets to build lasting, profitable partnerships—and deliver top results for your clients. 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

  6. Jun 16

    Safe vs Effective Training for Older Adults Explained

    Are you training older adults or clients with specific needs? Wondering if your programs are too "safe" — or not effective enough? In this powerful episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” Wendy Batts and Dr. Marty Miller break down the REAL differences between safe and effective training, and why you don't need to choose just one! 🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode: The truth about training for longevity vs. just fall prevention How the NASM OPT model supports power training for aging adults Why power declines faster than strength — and how to combat it Research-backed benefits of high-velocity and power-based exercises for seniors Practical programming tips, cueing strategies, and exercise modifications for older adults Overcoming common myths and fears about "explosive" training in later life Simple progressions for ANY client—regardless of age or fitness level 💪 Who Is This Episode For? Personal trainers, fitness professionals, and coaches Anyone working with senior or aging populations Individuals interested in maintaining independence and strength as they age Fitness program designers using the NASM OPT model 🎯 Key Takeaways: Safe and effective training go hand in hand — don’t limit your clients’ progress! The OPT model is universally adaptable and evidence-based for all ages Power training is not just safe, but essential for function, confidence, and quality of life Every client deserves thoughtful progression and intentional, goal-driven programming Show references: American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand. Resistance training prescription for muscle function, hypertrophy, and physical performance in healthy adults: An overview of reviews. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12965823/#:~:text=Muscle%20strength%2C%20hypertrophy%2C%20power%2C,manipulating%20the%20RT%20variables%20highlighted. High-velocity resistance training improves executive function in mobility-limited older adults. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167494323001590 Comparison of power training vs traditional strength training on physical function in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2792175#google_vignette Frequent external-focus feedback enhances motor learning. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2010.00190/full?utm Are changes in leg power responsible for clinically meaningful improvements in mobility in older adults? https://agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1532-5415.2010.03155.x 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

  7. Jun 2

    Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Brain Longevity

    Unlock the secrets of photobiomodulation and discover how red and near-infrared light therapy can supercharge your brain health, enhance athletic performance, and protect against cognitive decline! In this groundbreaking episode of the NASM “Master Instructor Roundtable,” Dr. Lew Lim—founder and CEO of Vielight and a pioneer in the field—joins hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, to break down the science, protocols, and real-world results athletes and active people are using now. 🎯 What You’ll Learn: The latest research on photobiomodulation (PBM) and how it boosts brain function Real-life examples: From MMA champions to older adults fighting Alzheimer's The best ways to use red & near-infrared light for sports, memory, and recovery Safety tips, protocols, and professional advice for trainers and athletes How PBM could become a vital part of your performance and longevity toolkit 🔥 Who Should Watch? Fitness trainers, coaches, & athletes Biohackers and longevity enthusiasts Active aging adults & caregivers Anyone curious about brain health, recovery, or red light therapy 💡 Episode Highlights: Dr. Lew Lim explains how red & near-infrared light can reach deep brain tissue and trigger healing at the cellular level Discover the difference between stimulation for focus (Gamma) vs. relaxation (Alpha) and how each supports sports & life Learn about protocols for peak performance, faster reaction times, and recovery from head trauma Explore exciting new frontiers—sleep optimization, AI-driven therapies, safe use, and 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

  8. May 19

    ACSM Resistance Training Review vs. NASM OPT Model

    Welcome to another high-impact episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable!”In this episode, Wendy Batts and Dr. Marty Miller break down the latest American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Position Stand: “Resistance Training Prescription for Muscle Function, Hypertrophy and Physical Performance in Healthy Adults”—the first major update since 2009. 🔥 Episode Highlights: Comprehensive Review: Analysis of 137 systematic reviews with over 30,000 participants Key Findings: What the new ACSM guidelines reveal about strength, hypertrophy & power training Validation: How the latest research supports the NASM OPT Model Hypertrophy Secrets: Why training volume is king for muscle growth Age & Strength: The science-backed case for lifting heavier at every age Power Development: Programming for speed, function & real life results Personalization: The role of program flexibility & movement assessments for every client 💪 Who Should Watch:  Personal Trainers Strength Coaches Fitness Professionals Exercise Science Students Anyone serious about muscle building and performance Show References:https://journals.lww.com/acsm-msse/fulltext/2026/04000/american_college_of_sports_medicine_position.21.aspx 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

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Are you looking at taking your training career to the next level? NASM master instructors Marty Miller and Wendy Batts each week explore and engage in a variety of topics, training techniques and tidbits for fitness professionals and enthusiasts.

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