The CPT Academy Podcast

If you’re confused by NASM’s science-based program design, especially periodization, you’re not alone!This is one of the commonly tested—and most misunderstood—topics on the NASM CPT exam.In this video, we break down:- Linear vs undulating periodization- How each applies to body fat reduction, muscle gain, and performance- How NASM actually expects you to think about program design (if you're testing)👉 Instead of memorizing charts, you’ll learn the simple rules and patterns that make this section much easier.📘 What You’ll Learn:- What linear periodization actually means- What undulating periodization is (and when it’s used)- How NASM applies periodization to: Body fat reduction Hypertrophy (muscle gain) Performance- How to simplify program design concepts for the exam🧪 Ready to Test Your Knowledge with our Free NASM Practice Test👉 https://www.thecptacademy.com/practicetest🎯 Full NASM CPT Prep ProgramIf you want a structured system with walkthroughs and a 95%+ pass rate, check it out here:👉 https://www.thecptacademy.com/ 📚 More Program Design Resources:Designing Strength Programs (blog): https://www.thecptacademy.com/blog/How to Design a Strength Training Program for ClientsProgram Design CEU Course (1.9 CEUs with NASM!): https://www.thecptacademy.com/store🔔 Subscribe for More NASM Tips!- Weekly breakdowns, test strategies, and concept explanations.#personaltrainer #certifiedpersonaltrainer #gym #nasm #fitnesscertification #nasmcpt

If you’re struggling to remember overactive and underactive muscles for the NASM CPT, you’re not alone.This is one of the most confusing (and most tested) topics on the exam — especially when you’re trying to apply it to movement compensations.In this video, we break it down using practice test questions, so you can:- Identify overactive vs underactive muscles- Recognize patterns in movement compensations- Apply the information the way NASM actually tests it👉 Instead of memorizing random lists, you’ll start to see the rules that make this section predictable!📘 What You’ll Learn:- Overactive vs underactive muscle patterns- How to answer exam-style questions- Simple ways to remember muscle relationships🧪 Test our Your Knowledge with Our Free NASM Practice Test - 👉 https://www.thecptacademy.com/practicetest 🎯 Full NASM CPT Prep Program: If you want step-by-step guidance, practice exams, and a system that’s helped students achieve a 95%+ pass rate, check it out here:👉 https://www.thecptacademy.com/🔔 Subscribe for More NASM HelpWeekly breakdowns, practice questions, and test strategies.#personaltrainer #certifiedpersonaltrainer #gym #nasm #fitnesscertification #nasmcpt

Preparing for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam? In this video, we review the NASM exercise library and assessment concepts most commonly tested on the certification exam.This walkthrough highlights the most important exercises, assessments, and movement compensations you need to understand before taking the NASM CPT exam. Instead of reviewing every detail from the textbook, this video focuses on the exercise-related topics that most frequently appear on the test, helping you streamline your study process and identify the key concepts you must know.You'll also learn how NASM evaluates movement assessments, posture, and performance testing, including the overhead squat assessment, single-leg squat assessment, pushing and pulling assessments, and several physiological and performance measurements. Understanding these concepts will help you interpret exam questions more effectively and apply the OPT model and corrective exercise principles with confidence.Whether you're nearing the end of your studies or reviewing the exercise library before test day, this guide will help reinforce the exercise science, biomechanics, and assessment strategies needed to pass the NASM CPT exam.In This Video• How to review the NASM exercise library for the CPT exam• Key physiological assessments (heart rate, blood pressure, body composition)• Understanding BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, and body fat assessments• Cardiorespiratory tests including the YMCA 3-minute step test and Rockport Walk Test• Movement assessments including the overhead squat, single-leg squat, pushing, and pulling assessments• Identifying movement compensations and postural distortion patterns• Performance assessments such as 1RM testing, vertical jump, pro shuttle test, and speed testingWho This Video Is For✔ NASM CPT exam candidates✔ Future personal trainers studying exercise science and biomechanics✔ Fitness professionals reviewing movement assessments and corrective exercise✔ Anyone preparing for a personal trainer certification examTopics CoveredNASM CPT exercise library reviewNASM movement assessmentsNASM overhead squat assessmentSingle-leg squat assessment NASMPostural distortion patternsBody composition assessmentsCardiorespiratory fitness testingPerformance assessments for athletesStrength testing and one-rep max protocolsExercise science for personal trainersInterested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam prep and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#personaltrainer #certifiedpersonaltrainer #gym #nasm #fitnesscertification #nasmcpt

Future personal trainers - this video is a must in setting up a successful NASM prep plan! We walk you through the basic science of the heart, covering anatomy and circulation pathways, while demystifying terminology and sharing tips and tricks to master the content and pass the NASM CPT 7th edition with flying colors!Be sure to check out our other test prep videos in the NASM Study Guide playlist and of course our NASM Test Prep Tip of the Day playlist!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

Future personal trainers - this video is a must in setting up a successful NASM prep plan! We walk you through the basic science of overactive/underactive muscles (shortened/lengthened), demystifying terminology and sharing tips and tricks to master the content and pass the NASM CPT 7th edition with flying colors!Be sure to check out our other test prep videos in the NASM Study Guide playlist and of course our NASM Test Prep Tip of the Day playlist!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

Future personal trainers - this video is a must in setting up a successful NASM prep plan! We walk you through the structure of the Resistance Chapter Exercise Library, sharing tips and tricks to master the content and pass the NASM CPT 7th edition with flying colors!Be sure to check out our other test prep videos in the NASM Study Guide playlist and of course our NASM Test Prep Tip of the Day playlist!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

Preparing for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam? In this video we walk through a series of NASM practice questions covering biomechanics, muscle function, and movement patterns.These practice questions focus on concepts that frequently appear on the NASM CPT exam, including muscle actions, concentric vs eccentric contractions, integrated vs isolated function, and the five primary movement patterns used in program design.You'll learn how to break down questions about muscles like the gluteus maximus, gastrocnemius, latissimus dorsi, and hamstrings, as well as how to identify movement patterns such as hinge, squat, push, and pull. Understanding how NASM tests these concepts will help you recognize common question formats and avoid mistakes on exam day.If you're studying for the NASM CPT exam, this walkthrough will help you strengthen your understanding of functional anatomy, biomechanics, and exercise science, while also improving your test-taking strategy for tricky exam questions.In This Video• NASM CPT practice questions explained step-by-step• Understanding concentric vs eccentric muscle actions• Isolated vs integrated muscle function on the NASM exam• Key muscle actions of the gluteus maximus, gastrocnemius, and latissimus dorsi• Identifying hip extension, dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, and rotation• Movement pattern review: squat, hinge, push, and pull• Real-world examples used in NASM exam questions• How to recognize tricky wording in NASM CPT questionsInterested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam prep and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#personaltrainer #certifiedpersonaltrainer #gym #nasm #fitnesscertification #nasmcpt

Future personal trainers - this video is a must in setting up a successful NASM prep plan! We walk you each step of the OPT Model so that you can pass the NASM CPT 7th edition certification exam with flying colors!Be sure to check out our other test prep videos in the NASM Study Guide playlist and of course our NASM Test Prep Tip of the Day playlist!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

If you're preparing for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam, this video walks through realistic NASM practice test questions and explains exactly how to think through them.These questions come from a full NASM CPT practice exam, and in this video we break down several examples step-by-step so you can understand the concepts behind the correct answers.Many NASM exam questions are designed to test your understanding of scope of practice, professional conduct, marketing concepts, and trainer responsibilities. These topics may seem simple, but they are easy points that many candidates miss on test day.This walkthrough demonstrates how to approach NASM exam questions so you can avoid common mistakes and feel confident going into your certification exam.If you're studying for the NASM CPT certification, this practice test explanation will help you better understand:• Personal trainer scope of practice• When to refer clients to medical professionals• The NASM Code of Professional Conduct• Sales and marketing concepts for personal trainers• CEU and recertification requirements• Communication strategies with clients• Professional responsibilities in the fitness industry***Be sure to check out our other Practice Final episode, with tips and guidelines on how to best prepare for practice tests!***This video is only a sample from a full NASM practice exam, so if you're looking for additional practice questions and exam prep resources, check the link below!https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

Preparing for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam? In this video, we walk through a full practice final exam strategy designed to help you determine if you're truly ready for the NASM test.***Be sure to check out our next episode where we walk through Practice Questions.***This session explains how to approach a NASM CPT practice final, how to evaluate your performance by section, and how to identify weak areas so you can study more efficiently. The goal is not just to answer questions correctly—but to understand the core concepts of exercise science, biomechanics, and program design so you're prepared for any variation of a question on the real exam.You'll also learn why many NASM practice tests can feel different from the real exam, how the NCCA testing restrictions affect official practice exams, and why using a slightly more challenging practice test can actually make the real exam feel easier.Whether you're taking the NASM CPT exam soon or just starting your study process, this walkthrough will help you build confidence and use practice exams as a powerful study tool.In This Video:• How to approach a NASM CPT practice final exam• How to grade yourself by exam section• Identifying weak areas in your NASM CPT studies• Using practice tests to build test-day confidence• Understanding core vs. peripheral exam topics• Study strategies for muscle action spectrum, biomechanics, and program designWho This Video Is For:✔ NASM CPT exam candidates✔ Future personal trainers preparing for certification✔ Fitness professionals studying exercise science and program design✔ Anyone looking for NASM test prep, practice exams, or study strategiesInterested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

Future personal trainers - this video is a must in setting up a successful NASM prep plan! We walk you through the test structure and how to build your passing score, section by section, so that you can pass the NASM CPT 7th edition with flying colors!Be sure to check out our other test prep videos in the NASM Study Guide playlist and of course our NASM Test Prep Tip of the Day playlist!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #fitnesscertification #gym

Unlock the secrets to thriving as a young professional in today's personal training workforce—especially if you're part of Gen Z. Discover why your age is your greatest asset and how to showcase your unique skills without oversharing or undermining your potential. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your fitness career, this episode reveals practical strategies to harness your energy, social media know-how, and adaptability to stand out and succeed, from personal training interviews to sales to business strategies. We break down how youth brings vital benefits like fresh perspectives, social media fluency, and trainability—plus how to leverage these traits effectively. Ashley shares insights on building soft skills, demonstrating your value through real examples, and adapting your communication style to impress hiring managers and clients alike. You'll learn why professionalism, emotional intelligence, and a strong work ethic matter more than ever, and how to subtly showcase your strengths without feeling insecure about inexperience. If you're a young trainer, a recent graduate, or a Gen Z entrepreneur, you'll discover how to turn perceived weaknesses into powerful strengths. For seasoned CPTs, gain perspective on mentoring and fostering a diverse, respectful team environment. By recognizing that learning and growth are ongoing regardless of age, you'll learn how patience and persistence unlock mastery. Whether you're navigating early career challenges or refining your soft skills, this episode offers an empowering roadmap to turn you into the invaluable asset every employer craves. Your future success depends on how well you capitalize on the strengths of your generation!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #salesandmarketing #fitnesscertification #gym

Unlock the secret to building a thriving, future-proof personal training business that taps into the booming older adult and medical markets. Whether you're just starting out as a CPT or looking to scale, this episode reveals proven strategies to attract insurance contracts, forge powerful healthcare partnerships, and serve a demographic hungry for your expertise—all while creating a sustainable, rewarding career. Imagine turning your fitness facility into a preferred provider for insurance programs like Silver Sneakers and Silver & Fit, dramatically boosting your membership with minimal overhead. We'll show you how to navigate approval processes, craft compelling marketing materials, and approach healthcare professionals effectively—so you get noticed by the right people. Discover how integrating into the medical continuum can generate steady referrals, reduce client churn, and position you as a trusted expert in senior health and wellness. This episode is a must for personal trainers looking to expand their business in 2026!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #salesandmarketing #fitnesscertification #gym

Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your fitness business with proven personal training sales strategies that actually work in today’s saturated market. Whether you're a new CPT or a seasoned trainer struggling to stand out, this episode reveals the game-changing techniques that turn casual prospects into loyal clients—without feeling pushy or overwhelmed. We have you covered with all of the sales and marketing strategies you need to succeed in 2026! Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #salesandmarketing #fitnesscertification #gym

Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your fitness business with proven personal training sales strategies that actually work in today’s saturated market. Whether you're a new CPT or a seasoned trainer struggling to stand out, this episode reveals the game-changing techniques that turn casual prospects into loyal clients—without feeling pushy or overwhelmed. We have you covered with all of the sales and marketing strategies you need to succeed in 2026! Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam certification and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD#nasm #personaltrainer #salesandmarketing #fitnesscertification #gym

Have all of your NASM CPT Test questions answered by a recent graduate of the CPT Academy! To learn more about the programs we offer, check out our website: https://www.thecptacademy.com/a/2148205350/AZXCyvw7And check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD

In this podcast episode, Leya Glazer, a freshman at UT Dallas majoring in biomedical engineering with a minor in computer science, shares her journey in fitness and her experience with the NASM CPT and AFAA Group X exams. As a member of the university's golf team, Leya emphasizes the importance of fitness in enhancing her performance on the course, highlighting how her training has allowed her to excel in endurance and strength. She discusses the challenges and insights gained from her certification journey, underscoring the value of understanding the material beyond just passing the exams. Leya's passion for fitness and her proactive approach to integrating it into her life and future career plans serve as an inspiration for her Gen Z peers, demonstrating that opportunities in fitness and beyond are abundant for those willing to pursue them.Reach Leya on LinkedIn (LeyaGlazer)!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam prep and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD

Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Jermaine Collier Jr., a dedicated coach and personal trainer, who shares his journey from a track athlete to a successful fitness entrepreneur. Discover how Jermaine overcame challenges, embraced resilience, and leveraged his passion for fitness to help others achieve their goals. Whether you're an aspiring personal trainer preparing to take the NASM CPT 7th edition exam or someone looking to pivot careers, Jermaine's story offers valuable insights and motivation. Don't miss out on his tips for success in the personal training business!Reach Jermaine at @coachjayizfit on IG or [email protected]!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam prep and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Deirdre Tobin, NASM CPT and top trainer at a leading gym, who transitioned from a background in musical theater to a successful career in fitness, both in-person and online. Deirdre shares her unique path, covering tips on how to use personal training assessments and consultations to boost sales. This conversation showcases "a day in the life" of a successful Gen Z certified personal trainer!Reach Deirdre on IG @fit.bydeirdre! Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam prep and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD

In this episode, Ashley interviews Arika Harden, an extremely successful personal trainer who shares her journey from a youth athlete to a certified fitness and nutrition specialist. Arika discusses her passion for fitness, which began with soccer and evolved through bodybuilding and personal training. She emphasizes the importance of education and certification in the fitness industry, highlighting her decision to pursue NASM CPT and CNS certifications to enhance her credibility and knowledge. Arika provides tips on the 7th Edition exam and also shares valuable insights on building a successful fitness business, the significance of empathy and professionalism, and the impact of her work on her clients and family. The conversation touches on the challenges and rewards of balancing personal and professional life, especially as a mother and a role model for her daughters.Reach Arika on IG @a_gamelatina and FB @ArikaHarden!Interested in learning more about our NASM CPT exam prep and NASM CEU recertification programs?https://www.thecptacademy.comAnd check out Ashley's interview on world champion kickboxer Shannon Hudson' s podcast: https://youtu.be/FRRo608OHfI?si=ykMuZe8hGBWH29oD