To succeed when training elite MMA fighters and athletes in high-demand, high-risk sports, coaches must balance sport-specific preparation with intelligent recovery and individualized strategies that prevent overtraining and support safe weight management. In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey talks with guest Brandon Harris, a UFC performance coach and founder of Premier Fitness Systems, about how trainers working with NASM can apply these principles to help both elite and everyday clients thrive.

Listeners will learn why "addition by subtraction"—removing unnecessary or excessive training instead of adding more—is often key for athletic success, especially in fighters who already have demanding training schedules. The conversation explores practical approaches to energy system development, wheat cutting, recovery techniques (including breathwork and nervous system regulation), and the role of curiosity and education in a successful coaching career.

After listening, you will understand how to evaluate training volume, when to pull back or push intensity, how to address weight cut challenges, and how to foster resilience for long-term performance and health.

Chapters:

[00:00] What is addition by subtraction in elite athlete training, and why does it matter?

[06:18] Why did Brandon Harris move from commercial gyms to starting his own business?

[09:21] How did certifications like NASM and curiosity influence Brandon Harris’s career path?

[14:18] How do you prepare fighters’ bodies and minds for the demands and risks of MMA and combat sports?

[17:03] How do you train both explosive power and endurance for MMA athletes?

[18:11] What does addition by subtraction look like in real training sessions?

[20:21] Why do coaches sometimes reduce training rather than add more, and what are real-world examples?

[24:39] How does weight cutting work in fight sports, and what are the risks?

[33:08] How did networking and volunteering lead to Brandon Harris working with UFC fighter Sean O'Malley?

[36:53] What recovery methods matter most for fighters and high-performance athletes?

[40:43] How do you teach efficient breathing and energy management during high-stress sports scenarios?

[43:35] What is the bigger-picture impact that trainers and coaches can have on clients’ lives?

[45:41] How can listeners connect with Brandon Harris and learn more about his methods?

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

The main difference between professional and amateur personal trainers is that professionals consistently follow up with clients, maintain organized and effective communication, and focus on purposeful, client-centered training practices. In this “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey breaks down ten key habits and strategies that separate dedicated career trainers from less experienced or casual counterparts.

Listeners will learn actionable scheduling and communication tips, the importance of tracking every assessment and personal record, and why referring clients out when necessary is a sign of professionalism, not weakness.

The presentation emphasizes being "brilliant at the basics," integrating fun and purpose into every session, maintaining clean and organized gym spaces, and delivering balanced, individualized programs that adjust as clients progress.

After listening, trainers will understand how to structure their client interactions and business practices to build trust, deliver results, and grow their training career within the structured guidance of NASM’s teachings.

Chapters:

00:00:30 What actually sets professional trainers apart from amateur trainers?

00:03:30 How important is following up with potential clients, and how should you manage it?

00:06:28 What are the keys to professional scheduling and communication in personal training?

00:08:17 Why do all scheduling changes need to be traceable and not just verbal?

00:10:17 How can trainers make sessions fun while still keeping them purposeful?

00:12:21 Why does cleaning up after yourself matter for trainers’ success and reputation?

00:16:21 When should personal trainers refer clients to other professionals or trainers?

00:19:45 Why is being brilliant at the basics better than advanced tricks or trends?

00:21:58 How do you provide a balanced and integrated training program for every client?

00:25:06 Why should trainers regularly reassess their clients and how should they track progress?

00:26:36 Why do you need to track everything, and how does this make your training more effective? 

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

You cannot choose where your body loses fat, because spot reduction is a myth.

In this “NASM CPT Podcast” episode, host Rick Richey answers the real questions behind common client concerns about fitness and weight loss.

Drawing on trusted research and practical experience, Rick explains why you lose fat according to your unique body patterns, not by targeting certain areas with specific exercises. He also discusses the most effective ways to lose weight (hint: nutrition is key), how much and how often you should exercise for noticeable results, the expected timelines to see fitness and strength improvements, and whether weightlifting will really make you bulky.

After listening, you will clearly understand what drives fat loss, how to set realistic workout routines, why progress looks different for everyone, and how to answer frequent client questions with confidence.This episode is essential for trainers and fitness enthusiasts looking for honest answers based on science and experience, all with practical NASM guidance.

Chapters:

00:01 What is spot reduction, and can I lose fat from a specific area?

05:45 What is the best way to lose weight?

10:08 How long and how often should I exercise to see benefits?

15:25 How long does it take to see results from working out?19:11 Will weightlifting make me bulky? 

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

Resistance training can significantly improve cardiovascular health in older adults by lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as offering unique benefits like increased muscle strength and quality.

In this “NASM CPT Podcast” episode, host Rick Richey reviews the latest meta-analyses and systematic reviews, sharing practical insights on how resistance training helps manage hypertension and supports healthy aging.

Listeners will learn why resistance training is valuable for older populations, how it compares to aerobic exercise for blood pressure control, and the importance of starting with progressive resistance to minimize soreness and build confidence.

Rick also addresses specific concerns such as training postmenopausal women and individuals with sarcopenia, providing evidence that regular, structured resistance training leads to greater health benefits, especially in those over 60.

After listening, fitness professionals will be equipped with research-backed strategies for designing effective, safe training programs for older adults and addressing their concerns about resistance exercises.

Chapters:

[00:00:00] What are the cardiovascular benefits of resistance training for older adults?

[00:05:43] How does resistance training affect blood pressure in people with hypertension?

[00:10:53] How does resistance training benefit postmenopausal women?

[00:14:14] What is sarcopenia and how can resistance training help elderly adults?

[00:15:01] How should trainers safely begin resistance training with older or inexperienced clients?

[00:18:48] How can trainers help older clients build strength and confidence progressively?

Show References:Wang, X., Wang, Q., Zhao, W., Wang, J., Chen, L., & Wang, L. (2025). The efficacy of resistance training for the management of hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Postepy w kardiologii interwencyjnej = Advances in interventional cardiology, 21(2), 163–170. https://doi.org/10.5114/aic.2025.151598 

Henkin, J. S., Pinto, R. S., Machado, C. L. F., & Wilhelm, E. N. (2023). Chronic effect of resistance training on blood pressure in older adults with prehypertension and hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Experimental gerontology, 177, 112193. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2023.112193  

Rivera-Mejía, S. L., Rúa-Alonso, M. A., Rial-Vázquez, J., Nine, I., Camacho-Villa, M. A., Enríquez-González, M. A. G., Varela-Sanz, A., Fariñas, J., Revuelta-Lera, B., Fraga-Germade, E., Giráldez-Garcí A, M. A., & Iglesias-Soler, E. (2026). Resistance Training Improves Cardiovascular Health in Postmenopausal Women: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985), 10.1152/japplphysiol.01180.2025. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.01180.2025  

Zhao, H., Cheng, R., Song, G., Teng, J., Shen, S., Fu, X., Yan, Y., & Liu, C. (2022). The Effect of Resistance Training on the Rehabilitation of Elderly Patients with Sarcopenia: A Meta-Analysis. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(23), 15491. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315491

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 wearable devices like Fitbits, Apple Watches, and fitness trackers really worth it? In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey dives deep into the science and practical truth behind modern wearable tech.

🎧 Listen as Rick covers:

·      The REAL accuracy of step counts, heart rate, and calorie burn measurements

·      Surprising research on whether wearables motivate you to move more

·      Why calorie tracking with wearables might be misleading (study-backed!)

·      The psychological impact of fitness trackers: does tracking help or harm motivation?

·      Rick’s expert advice on when wearable tech is helpful—and when it can steal your joy

📝 Cited studies include:

·      Systematic reviews on device accuracy·      Evidence on activity increase in adults vs. youth

·      Sleep quality tracking reliability

Whether you’re a fitness pro, personal trainer, or just getting into wellness gadgets, this episode will help you make smarter choices about wearable tech. Don’t let tech ruin your love for movement—get the full picture here!

Show References:

Fuller, D., Colwell, E., Low, J., Orychock, K., Tobin, M. A., Simango, B., Buote, R., Van Heerden, D., Luan, H., Cullen, K., Slade, L., & Taylor, N. G. A. (2020).

Reliability and Validity of Commercially Available Wearable Devices for Measuring Steps, Energy Expenditure, and Heart Rate: Systematic Review. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 8(9), e18694.

https://doi.org/10.2196/18694 Germini, F., Noronha, N., Borg Debono, V., Abraham Philip, B., Pete, D., Navarro, T., Keepanasseril, A., Parpia, S., de Wit, K., & Iorio, A. (2022). Accuracy and Acceptability of Wrist-Wearable Activity-Tracking Devices: Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of medical Internet research, 24(1), e30791.

https://doi.org/10.2196/30791 Srivali, N., & Cheungpasitporn, W. (2026). Concordance of wearable device sleep metrics with patient-reported sleep quality: A systematic review. Sleep medicine, 144, 108941.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2026.108941 Longhini, J., Marzaro, C., Bargeri, S., Palese, A., Dell'Isola, A., Turolla, A., Pillastrini, P., Battista, S., Castellini, G., Cook, C., Gianola, S., & Rossettini, G. (2024). Wearable Devices to Improve Physical Activity and Reduce Sedentary Behaviour: An Umbrella Review. Sports medicine - open, 10(1), 9.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s40798-024-00678-9 Chen, X., Wang, F., Zhang, H., Lin, Y., Zhu, S., & Yang, Y. (2025). Effectiveness of wearable activity trackers on physical activity among adolescents in school-based settings: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC public health, 25(1), 1050. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-025-22170-z

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

How can personal trainers truly support clients battling cancer and chronic conditions? In this powerful episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” host Rick Richey sits down with Lisa Dougherty, founder of the MedFit Education Foundation and Gratitude Ranch, to discover how medical fitness can make a life-changing impact.

Lisa shares her deeply personal journey through a rare cancer diagnosis, the emotional rollercoaster of treatment, and the creation of her unique wellness retreat for those with life-threatening illnesses. Learn how trainers can use empathy, heart rate variability, and adaptive approaches to guide clients through their toughest challenges — and why presence, purpose, and personalized care matter more than any workout.

Key Takeaways:

·      How personal trainers can adapt for clients facing cancer and medical diagnoses

·      The power of HRV (heart rate variability) in programming and recovery

·      The importance of emotional support and purpose during illness

·      What makes medical fitness training essential in today’s health landscape

·      Behind-the-scenes of MedFit Education & Gratitude Ranch

Connect with Lisa Dougherty:

·      Gratitude Ranch

·      MedFit Classroom: Courses for Medical Fitness Professionals 

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 or your clients struggling with low back pain? 🤔 Whether you’re a fitness professional, physical therapist, or someone seeking relief, this episode is packed with expert insights you can’t afford to miss!

Join award-winning personal trainer and “NASM CPT Podcast” host Rick Richey as he sits down with renowned physical therapist, Pete Schultz, to break down everything you NEED to know about low back pain. Discover the real causes, get past the myths, and learn practical insights to help you move better and stay pain-free.

🔥 In This Episode:

·      The different types of low back pain explained: disc herniation, muscle strains, spinal stenosis, facet joint issues, SI joint hypermobility, and nociplastic (neuroplastic) pain

·      Signs, symptoms, and real-life examples that demystify each condition

·      How imaging like MRIs and X-rays often miss the full picture—and what really matters

·      The often-overlooked role of the nervous system, stress, and the biopsychosocial model in chronic pain

·      Why personal trainers should avoid panicking—and what to do when a client says, "My back hurts!"

·      Actionable strategies for safe exercise, movement screening, plus red flags and referral guidance🎯 Perfect for:

·      Personal trainers and fitness coaches

·      Physical therapists & healthcare professionals

·      Anyone dealing with chronic or recurring low back pain

·      Students and enthusiasts interested in sports science & injury prevention 

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 deadlifts bad for your back? Why do some people get injured lifting weights while others don't? Can resistance training actually reduce pain and injury risk?

Find out in this can’t-miss episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast” featuring Dr. Stefi Cohen — 27-time powerlifting world record holder, pro boxer, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and founder of the Institute of Strength Training.

Host Dr. Rick Richey and Stefi dive deep into:

·      The biopsychosocial model of pain and why pain isn’t always about tissue damage

·      The real difference between “injury” and “pain” and what that means for your workouts

·      Stefi’s personal story overcoming chronic back pain — and what REALLY works for recovery

·      Why your mindset can amplify or dampen pain signals (backed by neuroscience!)

·      How to avoid the most common training mistakes that lead to injury

·      Proven strategies for building resilience, managing training load, and keeping clients (and yourself) strong and healthy

·      Why deadlifts and other barbell movements aren’t inherently dangerous — plus evidence-based tips to use them safely

·      Actionable advice for trainers and everyday lifters on progressing after injury, breaking the pain-avoidance cycle, and becoming a “movement optimist

”Don’t miss Stefi’s expert insight on:

·      Foam rolling, manual therapy, and pain relief hacks that work

·      How to safely return to intense training after injury

·      Using resistance training to reduce pain from osteoarthritis and other chronic conditions

·      Busting the top fitness myths holding you back from your strength goals 

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, host Rick Richey answers a common question for fitness pros and enthusiasts: “Why do we train for strength endurance?”

He unpacks the science and strategy behind the OPT model’s three levels—stabilization, strength, and power—and explains exactly what makes the strength endurance phase unique.

You’ll discover:

·      ✅ The key goals of strength endurance training

·      ✅ How it’s different from standard strength or endurance phases

·      ✅ Real-world exercise examples you can use with your clients TODAY

·      ✅ Why supersets and volume matter for optimal results

·      ✅ Tips for maximizing both strength and stability in your workouts

Whether you’re a personal trainer preparing for your NASM CPT exam, a fitness coach looking for program inspiration, or anyone serious about building muscle, endurance, and total-body stability, this episode is for you!

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 wondering if pyramid or reverse pyramid training is best for your strength and hypertrophy goals?

In this episode of the “NASM CPT Podcast,” award-winning personal trainer and industry leader Dr. Rick Richey dives deep into the science—and practical application—of pyramid, reverse pyramid, and drop set training schemes.

🔍 What’s Inside:

·      The differences between pyramid and reverse pyramid sets

·      Five popular pyramid training variations explained

·      Research findings comparing pyramid, reverse pyramid, drop set, and traditional strength training

·      Real-world advice for trainers and fitness enthusiasts—what the science says and why personal preference matters

·      Top tips for finding the best workout for your clients (even when research points another way!)

🧠 Whether you’re a fitness pro looking for evidence-based program design or someone just trying to maximize your workouts, you’ll get actionable answers to one of weightlifting’s most debated questions: Pyramid or reverse pyramid—what actually works best?

Show References:

Ribeiro, A. S., Schoenfeld, B. J., Fleck, S. J., Pina, F. L. C., Nascimento, M. A., & Cyrino, E. S. (2017). Effects of Traditional and Pyramidal Resistance Training Systems on Muscular Strength, Muscle Mass, and Hormonal Responses in Older Women: A Randomized Crossover Trial. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 31(7), 1888–1896. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000001653 

Angleri, V., Ugrinowitsch, C., & Libardi, C. A. (2017). Crescent pyramid and drop-set systems do not promote greater strength gains, muscle hypertrophy, and changes on muscle architecture compared with traditional resistance training in well-trained men. European journal of applied physiology, 117(2), 359–369. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-016-3529-1 

Enes, A., Oneda, G., Leonel, D. F., Ramos, R. A., Kvas-Cabral, V. C., Bernardo, M. F., Escalante, G., & Souza-Junior, T. P. (2023). Drop-Set Resistance Training versus Pyramidal and Traditional Sets Elicits Greater Psychophysiological Responses in Men. Perceptual and motor skills, 130(4), 1624–1643. https://doi.org/10.1177/00315125231176729

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