NASM Master Instructor Roundtable: A Show for Personal Trainers

NASM Podcast Network

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. 1D AGO

    Common Personal Trainer Stressors & How to Manage Them

    Are you ready for a raw, real look at what it actually takes to build a successful career in the fitness industry? In this episode of the Master Instructor Roundtable, co-hosts Wendy Batts and Dr. Marty Miller break down the truth behind the reps—beyond what you see on the gym floor. Whether you’re just starting out as a personal trainer or a seasoned pro needing a reset, this episode covers the burnout, irregular hours, business realities, emotional labor, and strategies required to thrive as a fitness professional. With over 55 years of collective experience, Wendy and Marty share actionable insights and stories that will help you avoid the biggest pitfalls, keep your passion alive, and grow a thriving client roster. What you’ll learn in this episode: The hard truths and common stressors all fitness trainers face—irregular schedules, emotional client needs, and more Why saying “no” and setting boundaries is critical for your long-term career and well-being The business side of fitness—income variability, managing taxes, and treating your client list like a business The most common client barriers to success (motivation, time, lifestyle) and how to help clients stick to their plans Techniques to improve trainer well-being and avoid burnout Creating simple, actionable wins for clients to boost motivation and program adherence How to deliver value beyond the training session with consistent communication and personal touches Why retention is more valuable than constantly chasing new clients Retention drives income stability more than new clients Building strong client relationships is the #1 predictor of client success Quality communication and consistent value make you stand out “Always be learning”—keep investing in yourself through continuing education Key Takeaways:Whether you’re building your book of business from scratch or looking for new strategies to keep your passion burning, this episode will give you the reality check—and the roadmap—you need. #PersonalTrainer #FitnessCareer #BusinessOfFitness #TrainerTips #MasterInstructorRoundtable #TrainerBurnout #ClientRetention #FitnessPodcast #NASM #FitnessBusiness  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

    32 min
  2. JAN 27

    Strength Training for Longevity: Prevent Muscle Loss & Frailty

    Welcome to another transformative episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable.” In this discussion, hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, break down a vital topic every fitness professional and enthusiast needs to hear: Why **strength** should be treated as a key vital sign for longevity and overall health. 🔑 **In this episode, you’ll learn:** - The latest research on strength as a leading biomarker for healthy aging and longevity  - How sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) impacts billions of dollars in annual medical costs and affects millions over 60 - Effective strength assessments and validated tests for general and aging populations- Proven strategies to protect, preserve, and improve muscle mass through every decade of life  - The critical relationship between muscle health, glucose uptake, and diabetes risk - How grip strength predicts cardiovascular health and even all-cause mortality—backed by a multi-country, 140,000-participant study! - Real-life stories: Wendy and Marty share personal insights on aging, exercise, and what keeps clients thriving - How to use the OPT Model and progressive overload to safely build strength for anyone, at any stage - Communication tips for trainers to motivate clients and drive long-term adherence- Actionable takeaways for boosting functional reserve, fall resistance, and enjoying a vibrant lifestyle 👀 **Why Watch?** Whether you're a fitness coach, personal trainer, or someone interested in aging well, this episode is packed with actionable advice that goes way beyond the gym. We answer burning questions around muscle weakness, VO2 max, aerobic capacity, and why strength training is essential for everyone—especially as we get older. 🔥 **Special Segment:**  Discover the surprising power of grip strength as a predictor of mortality (with stats from The Lancet and the PURE study) and learn practical assessments you can start using TODAY!** 💡 Gain Expert Tips Like:** - Prescribing the minimum effective dose for aging adults (2–3 sessions/week, 5–8 hard sets/movement) - Smart progressions: Why you should “earn the right” to train for power and HIIT - Easy ways to track & communicate results to retain clients and celebrate their success! **👍 Don’t miss out! LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & hit the bell to join our community. Drop your questions and success stories in the comments—your feedback fuels our best content.**  **Watch now to transform your approach—because your strength is more than muscle; it’s your future!** 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

    36 min
  3. JAN 12

    Blood Flow Restriction Training: How BFR Is Transforming Rehab, Recovery & Athletic Performance

    Ready to take your training—and recovery—to a whole new level? In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, sit down with world-renowned sports scientist and Hytro co-founder, Dr. Warren Bradley, to decode one of the most buzzworthy innovations in fitness: Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) training. Whether you’re a trainer, athlete, or fitness enthusiast searching “What is BFR training?”, “How does blood flow restriction work?”, or “Is BFR safe for older adults?”, you’ll discover answers—and so much more—right here. Dr. Bradley breaks down the actual science behind BFR, demystifying how selectively restricting blood flow can fast-track everything from muscle growth and strength to endurance, power, and even hormonal boosts. Learn how elite athletes leverage BFR for recovery, why seniors and those rehabbing injuries are seeing breakthroughs, and the surprising ways BFR protocols could be your new workout game-changer—even if you’re just walking or cycling. Curious how to get all the benefits of heavy lifting with lower weights? Want the latest tips on the most effective BFR protocols, real recovery advantages, and even why astronauts and F1 drivers are integrating this tool? This episode spills practical strategies, insider stories, emerging research, and tips to get started safely—plus a glimpse into the future of BFR tech.Subscribe, listen, and get ahead of the curve with the latest in evidence-based BFR training! 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

    35 min
  4. 12/30/2025

    Encore Presentation: Understanding Nutrition & Supplementation Concepts

    Are you ready to gain an edge in understanding the latest trends in nutrition and supplementation? This “Master Instructor Roundtable” is a goldmine for anyone looking to optimize health, boost performance, and make sense of the ever-evolving world of supplements! Join hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, as they sit down with the legendary Neal Spruce —the visionary behind dotFIT and former owner of the National Academy of Sports Medicine—for an illuminating roundtable that unpacks decades of industry expertise. With real-life stories and evidence-based insights, Neal reveals what’s really new in the nutrition landscape: from the health-conscious mindset of Gen Z to the rise and risks of GLP-1 weight loss drugs, and why filling your nutritional gaps is more vital than ever. Discover the rigorous science and uncompromising quality standards behind dotFIT’s innovative Super Blend supplement, why “what’s on the bottle is rarely what’s inside,” and which supplementation strategies truly support long-term health—from kids to elite athletes and busy professionals alike. Do you know when to consider supplements for children? Is coffee really as healthy as you’ve heard? Should everyone be taking creatine for brain and muscle health? Get myth-busting answers and actionable advice straight from the experts, plus hear top insider tips to protect yourself from common supplement pitfalls. 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

    45 min
  5. 12/16/2025

    ow NASM Became an Industry Leader: Insider Secrets on Branding, Community & Growth

    Ready to unlock the secrets of building a powerful personal brand in the fitness world? Tune into the “Master Instructor Roundtable” for a compelling insider’s look at what makes NASM’s brand stand out and how you can apply those strategies to your own career! Hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, are joined by featured guest, Cynthia Flores, NASM’s creative director, who reveals behind-the-scenes stories of brand evolution, authentic messaging, and transformative community engagement. Discover how NASM has set the standard for science-based fitness for over 35 years and learn why their creative approach goes far beyond marketing – it’s about listening to real trainers and coaches, adapting to trends, and celebrating diversity and inclusion. Curious about how casting calls work or why NASM features certified trainers as brand models? Cynthia shares surprising tales of fitness pros turned models thanks to NASM’s campaigns! Whether you’re a personal trainer eager to carve your path, a fitness enthusiast intrigued by industry branding, or a business owner looking for inspiration, this discussion delivers actionable advice on finding your authentic voice, specializing for success, and connecting with today’s fast-moving digital audience. Packed with real-world examples, practical branding tips, and genuine encouragement, this episode is your all-access pass behind the curtain of a legacy brand. Listen to learn how to spark your own legacy, avoid common branding mistakes, and become part of the NASM community’s ongoing story. 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
  6. 12/02/2025

    Encore Presentation: Understanding Recovery

    Are you working hard in the gym but feeling stuck when it comes to true results? It might be time to rethink what “recovery” really means! In this special presentation, hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, dive deep into the science and strategies of recovery—going way beyond just “taking a day off.” Discover why recovery isn’t only about muscles but also mind, nutrition, and sleep. You’ll learn about the difference between passive recovery (think rest, sleep, and downtime) and active recovery (like foam rolling, stretching, and contrast therapy). Spoiler alert: Getting your head in the right place with positive routines could be just as vital as what you do with your body. Curious about which tools and techniques really help maximize performance and prevent injury? Wondering how things like mindset, nutrition, hydration, and even cold therapy can boost your progress? The hosts share insider tips, personal routines, and simple recovery habits you can start today. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a trainer, or someone just starting out, this episode will challenge your assumptions and spark new approaches to getting results faster—and feeling better doing it. Don’t miss the actionable takeaways and myth-busting insights that are changing the recovery game.I f 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

    26 min
  7. 11/18/2025

    Speed Training Isn’t Just for Athletes: Unlocking Agility & Longevity for Everyone

    Unlock the secret to speed, power, and agility—no matter your age or fitness level! In this episode of the "Master Instructor Roundtable," hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, shatter the myth that speed training is just for athletes. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an active grandparent chasing after kids, or someone looking to boost daily performance, this conversation reveals how speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) can revolutionize your fitness approach. Curious about whether sprint intervals and agility drills could benefit YOU? Discover the research-backed advantages of “training for the speed of life”—including improved cardiovascular health, better brain function, enhanced recovery, and more efficient movement. The hosts dive into practical applications you’ll want to try, from battling ropes and creative cone drills to sprints tailored for non-athletes. With insights drawn from cutting-edge studies, you’ll learn how proper progression and mechanics make speed training safe and effective for everyone. Plus, find out why these dynamic drills are not only fun but also instrumental in enhancing longevity, mood, and overall quality of life.Ready to discover why “everyone is an athlete”? Tune in for actionable tips, surprising research, and strategies you can apply to your own workouts, regardless of age or experience. Don’t miss this power-packed discussion — and get inspired to put some speed into your fitness routine today. Show Notes: NASM Senior Fitness Specializationhttps://www.nasm.org/products/single-complex/senior-fitness-specialization/SFS301K NASM CPT 7NASM Guide to Sarcopenia an Evidence Based Reviewhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/379757203_The_NASM_Guide_to_Sarcopenia_An_Evidence-Based_Review/link/6618cc9cf7d3fc2874432396/download?_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIn19 Effects of Three Different Exercise Strategies for Optimizing Aerobic Capacity and Skeletal Muscular Performance in Older Adults: A Pilot Studyhttps://link.springer.com/article/10.14283/jfa.2021.21?utm_source=chatgpt.com 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
  8. 11/04/2025

    Changing Culture, Changing Lives: The Power of Nutrition Coaching Across Borders

    Discover how evidence-based nutrition is sparking a cultural revolution in a country you may not expect. In this special episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, are joined by featured guest, Tornike Enukidze, founder of the Nutrition Academy of Georgia—not the U.S. state, but the vibrant country at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Tornike shares his inspiring journey of introducing the NASM Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) program to Georgia, and reveals the challenges and triumphs of transforming health habits in a culture famed for its Mediterranean-style cuisine and feasting traditions. Are the obesity trends in Georgia mirroring those of the United States? Why is evidence-based nutrition gaining ground over quick fixes and fad diets—and how can community-building multiply healthy change? This discussion dives deep into the practical strategies, stories, and cultural adaptations needed to make lasting health improvements. Learn how Tornike’s team is bridging the gap between tradition and modern science, empowering both professionals and everyday people. Plus, get insider tips on making nutrition education stick—from building a supportive ecosystem to adapting global best practices for local realities. Perfect for nutrition coaches, health professionals, and anyone curious about global wellness trends! Tune in for fresh perspectives, success stories, and strategic advice that will inspire you to rethink what’s possible in your own health 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

    43 min
4.5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

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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