What I Wish I Had Known Prior to Entering the Fitness Industry

My journey in the fitness industry has now entered its 37th year. During this time, I have worn – and continue to wear – a variety of hats. My experiences have enabled me to have leadership in many roles: Group Exercise Instructor for both land-based and aquatic exercise classes; Kids’ Fitness programs; Personal Training; competitive […]

Understanding the GLP-1 Class of Drugs: Both Sides of the Weight Loss Issue

The prevalence of diabetes, rising worldwide, affects an estimated 463 million people. Type 2 diabetes accounts for approximately 95% of all cases, and remains challenging to manage despite the variety of available treatment options. While current guidelines recommend a lifestyle-based approach to treatment, many patients still seek to co-manage their conditions through the addition of […]

Finding Life’s Balance to Avoid Professional Burnout

In just about any aspect of life, dealing with high stress levels on a daily basis can generate a plethora of physical and emotional symptoms. Professional athletes, and even elite athletes at the recreational level, will at some point experience how overtraining aligns with a deterioration of immune function, increased negative emotions and overwhelming fatigue. […]

Crafting a Better Backside: Understanding Anatomy for Strength-Training the Glutes

As the largest muscle group in the body, glutes comprise the major part of the buttocks. These muscles, vital for athletic performance, also come into play during mundane daily movements such as standing upright, walking and running. In this article we will delve into the anatomy of the gluteus musculature, including the most optimal manner […]

How To “Go Green” with Strategized Plant-Based Eating

As media moguls continue to bombard the country with the health advantages of limiting red meat consumption, more and more individuals have taken a serious second look at the value of a plant-based style of eating. Here we delve into the top reasons for adapting to a whole food, plant-based way of life. You may […]

Pitfalls Of The Field: What Prospective Personal Trainers Need To Know

You just received your Personal Trainer certification — congratulations! This exciting career path you have chosen opens doors to helping others live their best possible lives by achieving their fitness and health goals! While this endeavor seems straightforward (find a gym, get hired, acquire clients, etc.), the day-to-day realities may come as a surprise. Here […]

Getting to the Root of Ginseng’s Medicinal Properties

Ginseng, notably the most well-known adaptogenic and commercially used medicinal herb, began its climb to wellness star in Asia as a supplement to boost Qi, or life energy. Traditionally, ginseng served to strengthen the mind/body, restore adrenal health, improve stamina and cognitive function, boost immunity and induce an overall sense of wellbeing. Many individuals today consume ginseng […]

Uncovering the Wellness Potential of New Zealand Black Currant

Throughout history, black currant has figured prominently as a potent botanical for treating a variety of ailments. Its abundance of vitamins and minerals makes it an ideal adjunct to natural remedies for colds and flu. Similarly, its anti-inflammatory propensity has proved useful in the treatment of arthritis and joint pain. Read on to learn more […]

The Importance of Grip and Forearm Strength

Exercises like pull-ups, rows, kettlebell swings, and bicep curls all involve a certain amount of forearm strength. Rock climbing, one of the fastest-growing sports in this country, requires an incredible amount of upper body power, forearm strength, and grip strength. Read on to learn why personal trainers must not neglect forearm strength when designing comprehensive […]

The Importance of Post-Workout Meal Timing: Myth or Mandatory?

Prudent personal trainers know that both training stimuli and nutrient consumption affect hypertrophy gains. Training increases protein synthesis, but it may also activate muscle protein degradation. In the absence of properly-timed quality nutrition, these two can potentially cancel each other. Let’s explore this key physiological equation: Net Protein Balance (skeletal muscle mass) = Muscle Protein […]