Ready to unlock the high-performance habits that set elite fitness professionals apart from the crowd?

In this episode of the "Master Instructor Roundtable," hosts Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, go behind the scenes of top-tier trainers and coaches, revealing powerful strategies you won’t hear anywhere else. Are you an up-and-coming trainer hoping to level up, or a seasoned educator ready for your next breakthrough? Get ready to learn the daily routines, mindset tweaks, and business systems that drive lasting success in the fitness industry.

Discover how elite pros structure their days, manage time for maximum productivity, and build unstoppable momentum. The NASM Master Instructors share their personal game-changing routines (think: time-blocking, non-negotiables, automation, and energy management) alongside battle-tested advice from industry mentors. Find out why a growth mindset and continuous learning are non-negotiable—and how technology, clear boundaries, and strategic networking can redefine your career path.

Plus, get a deep dive into relationship building, client experience, and why writing your own eulogy could be the secret to long-term vision. Whether you’re hungry to improve your coaching, expand your business, or simply lead a healthier, more intentional life, this episode is packed with actionable tools and inspiring stories.

Start setting yourself apart with habits and systems today—hit play, subscribe, and join the conversation. Your journey to elite performance begins right now! 

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 ready to level up your career in fitness, wellness, or health promotion?

In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts Wendy Batts and Dr. Marty Miller welcome Dr. Barry McGlumphy, program coordinator at Penn West University (formerly Cal U), for a deep dive into the transformative power of continuing education in the exercise science industry.

Discover why thousands of NASM-certified professionals―from NFL trainers to gym owners and aspiring fitness leaders―credit PennWest’s fully online bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees with redefining their career paths. Get the real story behind the Cal U-to-PennWest name change, find out how busy professionals can complete a master’s degree in just one year, and learn how you can “stack credentials” by earning graduate credit for your existing NASM certifications.

Curious about the future of online exercise science degrees, how transfer credits and accelerated programs can fast-track your goals, or why over 200 alumni are now working in professional sports (MLB, NFL, NBA, and more)? This episode covers all that and more―including exclusive cost-saving tips for military members and NASM pros.

Whether you’re a seasoned personal trainer, a career changer with a degree in another field, or simply eager to explore new horizons, this insightful conversation will spark your motivation to invest in yourself. Tune in for practical advice, inspiring alumni stories, and your next step to becoming a leader in the fitness industry!

Subscribe, share, and join the conversation now—your next career breakthrough starts here! 

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

It’s time to unlock the power of your hips.

On this “Master Instructor Roundtable,” join hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, as they pull back the curtain on why your hips might be the missing link to peak performance, pain-free movement, and good posture. Is your modern lifestyle or favorite workout routine holding back your athletic potential? Have you ever wondered how something as simple as sitting or crossing your legs could be hurting your hips—and what to do about it?

Dive deep into the conversation as they break down the essential role of the lumbopelvic hip complex (LPHC), reveal the hidden dangers of lower cross syndrome, and explain how your feet might be triggering issues in your hips and lower back. You’ll hear personal stories from the world of sports therapy, insights into why even elite athletes are obsessed with hip function, and real-life corrective strategies you can use right away.

Curious about how to spot and fix hip dysfunction before it leads to injury? Intrigued by assessments and exercises you can actually use—no matter your fitness level? Want actionable takeaways backed by the latest NASM expertise? This episode has it all, with practical tips, insider tricks, and the science that supports it.

Perfect for athletes, trainers, or anyone who wants strong, pain-free hips—don’t miss this must-hear discussion! 

Show Notes & References:

NASM CES, Chapter 13

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 your mobility drills really working—or are you missing key details that could transform your performance?

In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, break down the top five most essential mobility drills every fitness enthusiast and professional should know. But it’s not just about going through the motions—they’ll reveal why quality trumps quantity and how small tweaks can make a game-changing difference.

Join Wendy and Marty as they demystify what “mobility” truly means (hint: it’s not just range of motion!), expose red-flag mistakes that sabotage your results, and share coach-tested cues and modifications you can apply instantly. Whether you’re a trainer looking for the best client warmups, an athlete craving better performance, or anyone hoping to move pain-free, these evidence-based insights are a must-listen.

Curious about the “world’s greatest stretch,” 90/90 hip drill, shoulder CARs, deep squat holds, or cat-cow segmentation? The hosts not only explain each move with rich detail, but they also unpack WHY you need them and HOW to customize for every body.

Ready to move better, recover faster, and unleash your true potential? Hit play now! Don’t forget to follow, rate, and subscribe.

Break free from mobility myths. Start mastering movement—one drill at a time!

Show Notes & References:

NASM CPT 7: Chapter 14, Lessons 1-3

NASM Stretching and Flexibility Coach: Chapters 1, 3,4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghXn2-ZYfU4 

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 ready to future-proof your fitness career?

In this lively and insightful episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” co-hosts Wendy Batts and Marty Miller dive deep into the evolving landscape of the fitness industry and share actionable tips for staying ahead as a professional.

Tune in as Wendy and Marty break down the biggest trends shaping the next decade—from the integration of technology like AI, wearables, and data-driven training, to clients’ growing emphasis on longevity, movement quality, and whole-lifestyle coaching. They reflect on their own career journeys, discussing the importance of setting bold goals and regularly reassessing your aspirations with tools like personal SWOT analyses and milestone planning.

The conversation also highlights the crucial balance between "hard" and "soft" skills. Listeners will learn why corrective exercise expertise and movement assessment are becoming the new standard, and how developing emotional intelligence, communication, and sales skills can set top performers apart.

The duo also get candid about social media’s real value for trainers, the challenge of establishing your personal brand, and why putting yourself and your clients first will never go out of style.Whether you’re just starting in fitness or seeking your next big leap, this episode is packed with wisdom—from leveraging tech to advancing your education and building genuine client relationships. Don’t miss the key takeaways and the hosts’ honest advice to their younger selves!

Show Notes & References:

NASM CPT 7: 

Section 1, Chapter 2 (The Personal Training Profession). 

Lessons 1-7 Section 2, Chapter 3 (Client Relations and Behavioral Coaching). 

Lessons 1-5 Section 2, Chapter 4 (Behavioral Coaching).

Lessons 1-5  NASM Business Blueprint course https://www.nasm.org/continuing-education/personal-training-business-blueprint 

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

In this “Master Instructor Roundtable,” co-hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, take a deep dive into some of the most persistent myths in strength training. Whether you’re a fitness newbie, a seasoned trainer, or just fascinated by health science, this lively discussion will help clear up common misconceptions that still linger in gyms everywhere.

The two tackle myths like the idea that lifting heavy weights automatically leads to bulkiness, especially for women, and whether kids and seniors should steer clear of strength training. They dispel the old “high reps for toning, low reps for bulk” rule, explain why “muscle confusion” isn’t the magic bullet it’s made out to be, and set the record straight on spot fat reduction and the safety of squats for your knees.

Drawing on up-to-date research, years of professional experience, and practical examples (from training young athletes to keeping grandparents strong and independent), the hosts break down how strength training impacts everyone—at every age. They cover how adaptations really work, the crucial role nutrition plays in muscle growth, and why proper technique and progression always trump trendy workout fads.

With plenty of humor, relatable anecdotes, and actionable advice, Wendy and Marty equip both trainers and clients with the facts they need to make smarter choices in and out of the gym. If you want to gain confidence in your training—or help others do the same—don’t miss this myth-busting episode that promises to educate and empower.

Show Notes & References:Schoenfeld, B.J., Grgic, J., Ogborn, D., & Krieger, J.W. (2017). Strength and hypertrophy adaptations between low- vs. high-load resistance training: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 31(12), 3508–3523

Lorenz, D., Reiman, M., & Walker, J. (2010). Periodization: Current review and suggested implementation for athletic rehabilitation. Sports Health, 2(6), 509–518.

Myer et al. (2014). Sixty minutes of what? A developing brain perspective for activating children with an integrative exercise approach. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 48(12), 947–953.

Westcott, W.L. (2012). Resistance training is medicine: Effects of strength training on health. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 11(4), 209–216.

Ramírez-Campillo et al. (2013). Effects of abdominal exercise on abdominal fat. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 27(12), 3419–3425

Hartmann, H., Wirth, K., & Klusemann, M. (2013). Analysis of the load on the knee joint and vertebral column with changes in squatting depth and weight load. Sports Medicine, 43(10), 993–1008.

Peterson, M.D., Sen, A., & Gordon, P.M. (2011). Influence of resistance exercise on lean body mass in aging adults: A meta-analysis. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 43(2), 249–258.

Mitchell et al. (2012). Sarcopenia: Age-related muscle loss mechanisms and therapy. Biogerontology, 13(1), 1–11.

Lopez et al. (2018). Effects of resistance training on older adults: A systematic review. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 26(4), 608–618. 

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

In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” co-hosts, and NASM Master Trainers, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, dive deep into the art—and real-world challenge—of bridging the gap when your clients don’t fit the fitness textbook. Kicking off with classic wisdom from Bruce Lee and examples from pro athletes like Derek Jeter, Marty and Wendy remind us why mastering the fundamentals is truly non-negotiable.

Throughout their candid and experience-driven discussion, the duo explores what to do when the “perfect world” of the textbook doesn’t align with the messy reality of diverse clients: from young little leaguers and former college athletes to parents with jam-packed schedules. They break down the NASM OPT and CES models, comparing them to real-life navigation tools—a compass for some, Google Maps for others—emphasizing the need to adapt the blueprint to fit each individual’s unique journey.

Listeners will gain practical strategies for assessment, adaptation, and communication. This episode is packed with stories, case studies, and tactical advice on using assessment findings to guide programming, regressing and progressing exercises intentionally, addressing pain and limitations ethically, and focusing on movement quality over flashy routines.

Whether you’re a brand-new trainer overwhelmed by the textbook or a seasoned pro stuck in the weeds, this episode offers both reassurance and actionable solutions. Tune in for expert guidance on personalizing client programs, building trust, and ultimately, helping people move—and feel—their best in the real world.

Show Notes & References:

NASM CPT 7

Section 4, Chapter 11 (Health, Wellness, and Fitness Assessments). Lessons 1-6 

Section 4, Chapter 12 (Posture, Movement, and Perofrmance Assessments). Lessons 1-6 

NASM CES 3

Chapter 1, (Introduction to Corrective Exercise). Lessons 1-3 

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

In this "Master Instructor Roundtable," hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, dive deep into the world of speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) training—shattering the common myth that these techniques are only for elite athletes or hardcore weekend warriors. Drawing from their extensive experience, Wendy and Marty explain why SAQ should be a staple for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.

They kick things off by sharing real-life examples—like hurrying to cross the street or stepping around unexpected obstacles at home—to highlight how SAQ principles translate directly into everyday safety, confidence, and functionality. The conversation moves into the differences between speed, agility, and quickness, providing clear definitions and practical examples to make these concepts approachable for all listeners.

Throughout the episode, they bust misconceptions about risk and accessibility, emphasizing that SAQ training can be easily adapted for seniors, beginners, and even children. They offer simple, budget-friendly ideas for practicing SAQ at home, stressing that you don’t need fancy equipment or a gym membership to get started.

Listeners will also gain actionable tips on safely integrating SAQ drills into general fitness programs, plus coaching strategies to keep workouts fun, progressive, and confidence-building. Perfect for trainers, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enhance daily movement and prevent injury, this discussion is packed with insight, encouragement, and practical advice. Don’t miss it—your next burst of energy might come from embracing SAQ! 

Show Notes: For more information, check out Chapter 19 in the NASM Essentials of Personal Training Textbook (7th Edition).

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

On this “Master Instructor Roundtable," co-hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, take a deep dive into the ever-evolving concept of functional training, a term often tossed around but rarely fully understood. Drawing from over two decades of industry experience, Wendy and Marty unravel the origins of functional training, tracing its roots back to physical therapy in the 1970s and ’80s. They highlight how its true intent was to restore efficient, multi-joint movement patterns essential for everyday life—well beyond gym floor trends and Instagram-worthy workouts.

The hosts discuss how functional training has been redefined and sometimes misused as fitness fads have come and gone. They emphasize the importance of quality movement, stability, and assessment-backed programming rather than simply chasing novelty with flashy tools and exercises.

Both also break down the NASM OPT model, explaining how evidence-based assessments and targeted corrective strategies create purposeful, individualized progressions for every client—from elite athletes to older adults managing daily activities.Listeners will gain actionable advice on how to distinguish true function from mere fancy, why quality always trumps quantity, and how to align training with clients’ personal goals and real-world needs.

Whether you're a new trainer or a seasoned coach, this episode will help you clarify your understanding of functional training, reinforce the fundamentals of assessment-driven programming, and ultimately, train smarter for real-world results. 

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

 In this episode of the “Master Instructor Roundtable,” hosts, and NASM Master Instructors, Wendy Batts, and Marty Miller, explore the real role of corrective exercise and challenge the common misconception that trainers are supposed to "fix" movement. 

They discuss the difference between optimizing movement patterns and chasing perfection. We’ll also dive into the scope of practice for NASM professionals and how to reframe success with your clients through the lens of function, not flaw. 

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