On this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey explores an essential question for fitness professionals and clients alike: “How ready are you—or your clients—to exercise on your own?” Rick introduces the readiness ruler, a motivational interviewing tool designed to assess both the importance and confidence behind fitness goals. He breaks down why non-exercise activity throughout the day often burns more calories than traditional gym sessions, highlighting the value of everyday movement for both weight management and overall health.

Rick shares actionable SMART goals around movement, from aiming for 7,500 steps a day to picking up the pace for at least 3,000 of those steps. He emphasizes the holistic benefits of physical activity, including substantial reductions in the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes—independent of weight loss.

Learn how to use the readiness ruler with clients: find out what’s truly important to them and assess how confident they feel about reaching those goals. Rick offers practical tips for personal trainers to support clients both in and out of the gym, helping them adjust goals to fit their lifestyles. Tune in for evidence-based advice and strategies that empower individuals on their fitness journey—one step at a time.

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