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

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

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

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

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

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

Are you still falling for the “muscle confusion” myth, or do you know how variation REALLY works in fitness programming? On this episode of the award-winning “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts Marty Miller and Wendy Batts break down everything you need to know about muscle confusion, programming myths, and how to create results-driven workouts your clients will love. In This Episode: What is muscle confusion, and where did the concept come from? Is muscle confusion based on science or just fitness marketing hype? The truth about periodization and the NASM OPT™ Model How to use variation and progressive overload for continuous gains Practical workout strategies: manipulating sets, reps, tempo, rest, and exercise selection How to avoid common programming mistakes and bust fitness myths When and how to introduce undulating (non-linear) periodization Dangers and misconceptions about soreness, pain, and random workouts Client communication tips: how to explain evidence-based training the RIGHT way Whether you’re a personal trainer, fitness coach, or just passionate about training smarter, you’ll get proven, actionable tactics to ensure every workout is safe, effective, and engaging. Show References: NASM CPT 7: Chapters 20, 21  NASM MIR: A look at acute variables https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYQRhAzz0b8  NASM MIR: Acute variables https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZrBMtNsx60  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

Unlock the secrets to maximizing your fitness results with our award-winning podcast! In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, dive deep into the "15-Minute Warmup"—revealing proven strategies, science-backed techniques, and practical solutions for prepping your body and your clients for peak performance. What You'll Learn: Why the warmup matters: Discover the science behind movement prep, muscle activation, and the Bohr effect for explosive power How to optimize warmups: Audit and streamline your routine based on client needs, day-to-day compensations, and training phases. Phase-specific strategies: Learn how to tailor the warmup for stabilization, strength, and power—and avoid the common "treadmill trap"! Real-world coaching tips: Handling late clients, quick 5-minute emergency routines, and anchoring compliance to performance gains. Three-point audit check: Ensure your warmup covers the key movement compensations and kinetic chain checkpoints—essential for injury prevention and maximum results. Why Watch? Whether you're a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, or dedicated athlete, this episode gives you actionable advice to elevate every session. Stop skipping the warmup—start leveraging it for faster progress, better results, and a safer training journey. Show References:   DeRuiter CJ, De Haan A. Temperature effect on the force/velocity relationship of the fresh and fatigued human adductor pollicis muscle. Pflugers Arch. 2000 May;440(1):163-70. doi: 10.1007/s004240000284. PMID: 10864011.   Wilson CJ, Nunes JP, Blazevich AJ. The effect of muscle warm-up on voluntary and evoked force-time parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis with meta-regression. J Sport Health Sci. 2025 Dec;14:101024. doi:10.1016/j.jshs.2025.101024. Epub 2025 Jan 25. PMID: 39864808; PMCID: PMC12357318.   NASM Certified Personal Trainer 7 (CPT) 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

Welcome to the latest episode of the “NASM Master Instructor Roundtable!” Join hosts Wendy Batts and Marty Miller as they sit down with special guest, Isaac Lewis, co-founder of ANCORE Training, to reveal the secrets behind the new ANCORE X and how upgrading your mindset and your equipment can supercharge your fitness career. 🎯 Episode Highlights: ANCORE X Unveiled: Dive deep into ANCORE Training’s 2.0 cable machine—built for adaptability, durability, and performance in any gym environment. Professional Evolution: Discover actionable strategies for moving from "version 1.0" to "version 2.0" in your career—becoming a specialist, building new skills, and standing out in the fitness industry. Growth vs. Comfort: Hear real stories of business transformation, falling in love with the problem, and stepping outside your comfort zone for next-level success. Trainer Success Blueprint: Learn how to assess your niche, upgrade your skills, and deliver consistent, high-quality results for every client. Truth, Transparency, and Authenticity: Get expert advice on setting realistic goals and expectations—so you build trust, retention, and lasting results. Behind-the-Scenes: Find out how Anchor’s founders started their journey in a garage and grew into an award-winning fitness brand! WHY WATCH? If you're a fitness professional, gym owner, or trainer ready to grow your business, gain new clients, and optimize your service, THIS is the episode you can't afford to miss. Get insider insights, proven strategies, and learn how innovation can help you win in today’s competitive fitness landscape. 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.

Welcome to the “Master Instructor Roundtable!” In this must-hear episode, host Wendy Batts is joined by Dr. Scott Cheatham—physical therapist, NASM Scientific Advisor, and co-editor-in-chief—to break down the launch of NASM's revolutionary "Journal of Fitness, Wellness, and Human Performance." Timestamps & Topics We Dive Into: ·      Why the NASM Journal is a Game Changer for Fitness, Wellness, & Human Performance ·      The Peer-Review Process: What Makes This Journal Different·      Making Research Work for YOU as a Trainer, Coach, or Health Pro ·      How to Use the Journal for Programming, Client Education & Staying Ahead ·      Surprising Evidence on Percussion Devices, Creatine, Recovery, and More ·      How to Contribute Your Own Ideas and Articles ·      The Future Vision: Specialized Issues, Columns & Growing with the Industry What’s In It for You? ·      Get actionable, evidence-based insights you can use with clients starting right now ·      Discover how the journal bridges the gap between academic research and real-world results ·      Hear how NASM keeps trainers at the cutting edge—so you deliver better results and set yourself apart ·      Learn why every fitness professional should read this journal—even if you’re not an academic Featuring: ·      Wendy Batts: NASM Master Instructor·      Dr. Scott Cheatham: Professor, Physical Therapist, NASM Scientific Advisor, Journal Co-Editor-in-Chief Key Questions Answered: ·      Why does the fitness industry NEED its own research journal? ·      How do you know you can trust these articles? ·      What’s the REAL story behind popular fitness tools and trends—like massage guns and creatine? ·      Can you contribute to this journal (even if you’re not a PhD)? ·      How can this journal make you a better coach/trainer, starting Monday morning? Perfect For: Personal trainers • Wellness coaches • Health pros • Fitness enthusiasts • Students • Anyone who wants to level up their expertise with trustworthy, practical, evidence-based guidance. 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.