Episodes

  • Top 10 Reasons to Become a Personal Trainer

    Top 10 Reasons to Become a Personal Trainer
    Mar 31 2026
    🚀 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
    Show more Show less
    31 mins
  • Calories In vs Calories Out: Why It Doesn’t Work Alone

    Calories In vs Calories Out: Why It Doesn’t Work Alone
    Mar 24 2026
    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
    Show more Show less
    22 mins
  • How GLP-1 Medications Helped Jamie Selzler Lose 370 Pounds

    How GLP-1 Medications Helped Jamie Selzler Lose 370 Pounds
    Mar 17 2026
    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
    Show more Show less
    53 mins
  • Speed, Agility & Quickness Explained: SAQ Training Guide

    Speed, Agility & Quickness Explained: SAQ Training Guide
    Mar 10 2026
    Welcome to another action-packed episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast!” Join award-winning host Rick Richey as he deep-dives into SAQ—Speed, Agility, and Quickness—cornerstones of elite athletic and fitness performance. In this episode, you'll discover: · What SAQ really is and its critical role in the OPT (Optimum Performance Training) Model · Speed decoded: linear speed, stride rate vs. stride length, starting/stopping speed, and pro tips for maximizing your sprint · Agility demystified: the secrets of change of direction, multidirectional speed, and why today’s athletes are faster (and more nimble) than ever · Quickness training: how improving your reaction and total response time can set you apart—featuring real-world examples from track, tennis, and Major League Baseball · How you can train SAQ, the science and actionable drills you can start using today to improve your fitness, athleticism, or client results [LISTEN TO THE END FOR BONUS: Discover how sports performance training is evolving and how you can get certified with NASM’s exclusive Performance Enhancement Specialist course!] This episode is perfect for personal trainers, coaches, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts eager to level up their game. Rick Richey shares powerful insights, relatable sports stories, and practical tips you won't find elsewhere. 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
    Show more Show less
    16 mins
  • Virtual Personal Training: Who It’s For & Who It’s Not

    Virtual Personal Training: Who It’s For & Who It’s Not
    Mar 3 2026
    Ready to take your personal training business online? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey dives deep into how to set up and maximize success with virtual, remote, and online training sessions. Whether you’re a fitness professional navigating snow day, business trips, or just looking to expand your client base, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to future-proof your career. In this episode, you’ll learn: · Who should (and shouldn’t) consider virtual training sessions · The benefits of remote sessions for busy clients, frequent travelers, and those with second homes · Essential safety guidelines and best practices for online training · How to overcome common client objections and get buy-in for online sessions · Pricing strategies: Should you charge less for virtual sessions? · Pro tips for delivering high-value workouts with minimal or no equipmentRick shares real-life examples, practical scripts, and his proven “seed planting” methods to help you keep clients consistent and your schedule full—no matter where you or your clients are in the world. 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
    Show more Show less
    21 mins
  • Can You Make a Living as a Personal Trainer?

    Can You Make a Living as a Personal Trainer?
    Feb 24 2026
    Can you REALLY make a living as a personal trainer, or is it just "a fun job" for a few years? On this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” award-winning host Rick Richey dives deep into the truth behind personal training careers, income potential, and how you can maximize your earnings—no matter where you live! 🔑 Timestamps & Key Topics Covered: Breaking down the REAL numbers: How many sessions do you need to teach to hit the national average income? Hourly rates at corporate gyms vs. going independent The power of specializations (Corrective Exercise, Performance, Nutrition, Seniors, Golf, MMA Conditioning, and MORE!) How to boost income: small group training, teaching classes, online coaching, selling programming, and diversifying your services Location matters: Big-city rates vs. rural opportunities, and how to make it work anywhere Personal stories from Rick Richey—over 24 years in the industry! Actionable tips to PROVE to your parents (or yourself!) that fitness can be a legitimate, financially stable career 💡 Rick shares practical examples and honest advice to help you build a sustainable, fulfilling—and profitable—career as a personal trainer. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your fitness business to the next level, this episode is packed with valuable insights for trainers, coaches, and fitness professionals. 🌟 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a 5-star review if you found this episode helpful!Watch now and discover how you CAN turn your passion for fitness into a rewarding, long-term career! 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
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • Hamstring Muscle Anatomy: Origin, Insertion & Function

    Hamstring Muscle Anatomy: Origin, Insertion & Function
    Feb 17 2026
    🔔 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
    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • Strain vs. Sprain: Key Differences Explained

    Strain vs. Sprain: Key Differences Explained
    Feb 10 2026
    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
    Show more Show less
    25 mins