Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a combination of biological and mood disturbances typically occurring in the autumn and winter months. SAD is characterized by recurrent episodes of depression, hypersomnia, carbohydrate cravings and weight gain.

There are many myths and misconceptions regarding optimum protein intake and the effects of protein on body composition, performance, recovery and metabolism. 

Speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) training is too often associated with sports and other physically demanding activities. Upon closer observation, we realize we have missed the everyday events and activities that can greatly benefit from SAQ training. You never know when you’re going to run after your kids, play a pick up game of basketball, or cut through the trees during your next ski trip. This method of training can help with the previously mentioned scenarios, but will also enhance workouts for anyone who is involved in recreational sports, exercises on a regular basis, or simply enjoys activities such as walking a dog or playing with their child.

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are one of the most common among young female athletes occurring at a conservative estimate of 38,000 incidences per year. (1) With the cost of a surgical repair ranging between $17,000-$25,000 (2), the economic impact is significant, not to mention the long term sequela to the athlete which includes a significantly greater risk of osteoarthritis in the future. (3) Approximately 80% of these injuries are non-contact, suggesting many of them can be prevented. (4)

Fitness professionals need to understand the importance of a well-written resume. It doesn’t matter if you’re applying at a local health club, university, or sports performance clinic, your resume may hold the key for you to land your dream job or prevent you from even being considered.

Apart from the more obvious gender differences like pregnancy and some aging-related conditions (e.g., osteoporosis, menopausal changes), how much thought is generally given to the anatomical and physiological differences between men and women when designing programs for female clients? A fair assumption might be very little considering the lack of available information, and the lack of attention paid to these differences.

Had it not been for an ACL tear, would the NASM Optimum Performance Training™ model exist? Fortunately, the world of human movement science will never know, because that college-football injury changed the career trajectory of Micheal A. Clark, MS, DPT, now known as the creator of the NASM OPT™ model.

Training youth in sports and other physical activities has never been more important. Childhood inactivity and obesity keep rising, while access to physical education keeps falling. Trainers can turn that around, becoming fitness mentors who put children on a path to staying active and healthy for life.

Looking for a fun workout that incorporates the TRX Suspension Trainer into an Premier Global NASM Optimum Performance Training™ (OPT™) Phase 1 program? We’re sharing this OPT Phase 1 Stabilisation Endurance program with you – it’s great for the generally fit and healthy client with knees that may move inwards during an overhead squat assessment. Be sure to modify to best meet your client’s needs with appropriate progressions or regressions.

With so many responsibilities and not enough time, sometimes eating out seems like the most reasonable option for fueling up. Unfortunately, restaurant dishes are often loaded with calories, as well as the saturated fat, sodium and sugar that make these meals taste so good. Indulging in these large, frequent meals can be costly in terms of time, money and nutrition. Even the seemingly “healthier” options are still generally higher in sodium, sugar, and saturated fat than a packed lunch or a meal eaten at home.