The Human Kinetics Podcast

Foam rolling has become an industry standard as part of physical preparation and recovery. It has become a useful tool within the training and competition protocol, but the question is, are we using it correctly? In this episode, professor, personal trainer, and former TriggerPoint Director of Research Kyle Stull explains the dispels misconceptions and the biggest benefit of foam rolling, and it's probably not what you are thinking. Listen along as he discusses myofacial release, neurophysiological implications, and his newly released, Complete Guide to Foam Rolling, Second Edition. Complete Guide to Foam Rolling, Second Edition https://ecs.page.link/ectfs Kyle Stull, DHSc, LMT, CSCS, NASM-CPT, CES, PES Kyle Stull is an adjunct professor for Concordia University Chicago, American Public University, and Austin Community College. He was previously a senior master trainer and director of research at TriggerPoint, which helped establish foam rolling as a recognized industry standard. He has 20 years of experience in personal training, corrective exercise, and manual therapy. As a member of the Fascia Research Society and the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine, he is committed to being at the forefront of industry developments and maintaining the highest standards in his practice by incorporating the latest research into his work.

The argument can be made that training looks pretty similar between male and female athletes. While the general programming might look similar, there are considerations that should be made when training female athletes. In this episode, NSCA certified trainer Aaron Patterson discusses factors to consider such as increased injury risk and impacts of the menstrual cycle on training and performance. Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.  

Body transformation is the goal of nearly every individual who picks up a weight or invests hours in an exercise program, whether that is gaining strength, building muscle, or getting lean. Gareth Sapstead has spent his career spanning over two decades helping competitors and general population clients sculpt their ultimate body shape. In this episode, he dives into what it takes to build muscle, get lean, and work toward your ideal body transformation. As the editor of his newest release, 100 Best Physique Workouts, he enlisted the help of 20 additional trainers and coaches to share what has worked for them and their clients. 100 Best Physique Workouts https://ecs.page.link/FMzcA Gareth Sapstead, CSCS Gareth Sapstead is the founder of Team EPT Coaching as well as EPT Lab Fitness and Performance Gym. He delivers both worldwide and in-person coaching, driving lasting transformation, strength, and resilience. Sapstead has worked with Olympians, world champions, and countless clients in pursuit of their ultimate body shape. He is an author, writer, and international speaker whose work has been featured in The New York Times, Muscle & Fitness, Men's Fitness, and Men's Health. Sapstead has a master's degree in strength and conditioning science and a bachelor's degree in sports and exercise science. He also holds the NSCA CSCS (Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist) certification. Sapstead can be reached on Instagram (@thefitnessmaverick), at his website (www.thefitnessmaverick.com), or by email (getmefit@thefitnessmaverick.com).

It's time to move on. At some point in your life, you have probably heard the phrase, whether it is in reference to a job, a relationship, or in this case, a workout plan. In this episode, certified trainers Aaron Patterson and Frank Eyeson discuss how to know when it is time to move on from your current workout plan. You might get bored with your workouts. Maybe you've started to plateau. Or, perhaps you have new goals. Regardless of your situation, there are signs that hint it is time for a change.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.   Frank Eyeson, MS, NASM-CPT, CWC, CNC Frank Eyeson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health and fitness, including exercise technique videos and podcast episodes. As a marketing and social media manager, Frank also develops strategic campaigns that connect audiences with trusted, evidence-based resources to help them move better, train smarter, and live healthier.   With over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, Frank is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and nutrition coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Western Illinois University and a master's degree in Strategic Brand Communication from the University of Illinois. Frank’s content resonates with health-conscious individuals and fitness professionals alike, bridging the gap between expert knowledge and real-world application. On the Human Kinetics podcast, he brings a grounded, audience-first voice to conversations covering everything fitness—from strength training, recovery, and sport performance to nutrition, mental health, injury prevention, and overall wellness. He is passionate about making fitness education accessible, sustainable, and rooted in science. Outside of the gym and work, Frank enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, and relaxing with a good show.

We monitor how athletes are doing physically. We can assess if they need more recovery time, or if they are ready to push through. But we don't give much attention to how mental fatigue can impact play throughout the season. In this episode, NSCA certified trainer and Mental Performance Consultant Aaron Patterson takes a look into the impacts of mental fatigue and how it can impact an athlete. This perspective is viewed through the scope of a recent research article published in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance. It can also be found in the Human Kinetics Journals   Understanding Mental Fatigue Across the Men's Basketball Season: A Mixed-Method Study Sansone, P., Ciaccioni, S., Polverari, D., Carcia-Calvo, T., and Russell, S. (2026). Understanding mental fatigue across the men's basketball season: A mixed-methods study. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 12: 274-282. https://journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/ijspp/21/2/article-p274.xml   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.  

"How much can you bench, bro?" It's a question that pops up every now in then in gyms and among friends in a casual conversation. It's a way to compare ourselves to others and see exactly how we stack up. The bigger question is, does it matter? There are many nuances that go into the strength conversation, and in this episode, NSCA certified trainer Aaron Patterson discusses the difference between absolute and relative strength, and why those factors should be taken into account when discussing strength.   Additional Resources Science and Development of Muscular Strength https://ecs.page.link/t49Fw Scientific Foundations and Practical Applications of Periodization https://ecs.page.link/LXe7K Research Study: Scaling -- Which methods best predict performance? Comfort, P., and Pearson, SJ. (2014). Scaling – Which methods best predict performance? Journal of Strength Training and Conditioning Research, 28; 1565-1572.     Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.  

We know that physical activity can impact sleep habits, but how do sleep habits impact physical activity? Does more sleep mean less time awake lead to less physical activity? Similarly, does more time awake lead to more physical activity? In this episode, NSCA certified trainer and mental performance consultant Aaron Patterson explores the relationship of sleep habits among high school students and how they impact physical activity. The information in this episode is based on a 2025 research study published in the Human Kinetics Journals and the Journal of Physical Activity and Health. Associations of Sleep Duration, Quality, and Timing with Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors Among High School Students Johnson, K., Billmyer, E., Kaja, S., and Widome, R. (2025). Associations of sleep duration, quality, and timing with physical activity and sedentary behaviors among high school students. Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 1-8.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.  

Setting goals is only part of the process. You have to commit to behavior change in order to follow through with the plan. It isn't always easy, though, to start something new. In this episode, certified trainers Aaron Patterson and Frank Eyeson talk about myths, misconceptions, and challenges of starting a new training program.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.   Frank Eyeson, MS, NASM-CPT, CWC, CNC Frank Eyeson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health and fitness, including exercise technique videos and podcast episodes. As a marketing and social media manager, Frank also develops strategic campaigns that connect audiences with trusted, evidence-based resources to help them move better, train smarter, and live healthier.   With over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, Frank is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and nutrition coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Western Illinois University and a master's degree in Strategic Brand Communication from the University of Illinois. Frank’s content resonates with health-conscious individuals and fitness professionals alike, bridging the gap between expert knowledge and real-world application. On the Human Kinetics podcast, he brings a grounded, audience-first voice to conversations covering everything fitness—from strength training, recovery, and sport performance to nutrition, mental health, injury prevention, and overall wellness. He is passionate about making fitness education accessible, sustainable, and rooted in science. Outside of the gym and work, Frank enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, and relaxing with a good show.  

Behavior change is tough. You've made the decision that change is needed in some aspect of your life, but there are challenges that pop up along the way. In this episode, NSCA certified trainer and Mental Performance Consultant Aaron Patterson discusses the importance of goal setting and behavior change in exercise adherence. He highlights the challenges individuals face in maintaining that change and explores psychological factors that influence these behaviors including self-efficacy, social support, and realistic goal setting in achieving long-term success.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

Dance research is an ever-growing field with many avenues for researchers to consider. In this episode, Dr. Ali Duffy discusses her journey in dance and academia, and the importance of research in the field of dance. She explains various research methodologies and approaches and highlights the significance of community engaged research.  Research in Dance https://ecs.page.link/7ZHSa  Ali Duffy, PhD, MFA Ali Duffy is associate head of dance at Texas Tech University and is a President's Excellence in Teaching professor and graduate director. She is the artistic director of Flatlands Dance Theatre and codirector of the International Parenting and Dance Network. She holds a doctorate from Texas Women's University, a master's degree from University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a bachelor's degree from UNC at Charlotte, a graduate certificate in women's and gender studies from Texas Tech University, and a professional certificate in online education from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Duffy's writing has recently been published in Research in Dance Education; Journal of Dance Education; Journal of Arts Management, Law, and Society; Journal of Dance Medicine and Science, and Dance Education in Practice. Her recent books include Dancing Motherhood, Careers in Dance, and Meet the Dance makers. Forthcoming books include Pandemic Motherhood: Exploring the COVID-19 Pandemic Through Engaged and Applied Arts, Parenting and Dance: Interdisciplinary and International Perspectives, and Women in Dance: Choices, Obstacles, and the Question of Motherhood. Dr. Duffy has been invited for artistic presentations and residencies at Queen's University Belfast, Valdosta State University, the University of South Florida, Lindenwood University, Colorado Mesa University, Virginia Tech, University of Detroit, UNC at Charlotte, UNC at Greensboro, Austin Dance Festival, and COCO Dance Festival. Her artistic and scholarly research has been supported by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Mid-America Arts Alliance.

Youth sports are more competitive than ever, and the rise in popularity and competitiveness will likely only continue to increase. But have you ever considered the disparity in talent, even within the same age group? In this episode, NSCA certified trainer and sport performance coach Aaron Patterson discusses the impact of Relative Age Effects and Biological Maturity through the lens of a recent research article titled The Influence of Relative Age and Biological Maturity on Youth Weightlifting Performance.   Citation Morris, S., Oliver, J., Radnor, J., Hill, M., Haff, G., and Lloyd, R., (2025). The influence of relative age and biological maturity on youth weightlifting performance. Pediatric Exercise Science, 38:1; 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1123/pes.2024-0083 Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

Congratulations! You have set new goals and are excited to move forward with your new plan. This means the work is beginning and the inevitable challenges awaiting. The saying, "If it were easy, everyone would do it," is pretty accurate because the hard part isn't necessarily setting goals but following through with them. In this episode, certified trainers Aaron Patterson and Frank Eyeson have a conversation about building sustainable habits so you can stay on track and achieve your goals.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.   Frank Eyeson, MS, NASM-CPT, CWC, CNC Frank Eyeson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health and fitness, including exercise technique videos and podcast episodes. As a marketing and social media manager, Frank also develops strategic campaigns that connect audiences with trusted, evidence-based resources to help them move better, train smarter, and live healthier.   With over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, Frank is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and nutrition coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Western Illinois University and a master's degree in Strategic Brand Communication from the University of Illinois. Frank’s content resonates with health-conscious individuals and fitness professionals alike, bridging the gap between expert knowledge and real-world application. On the Human Kinetics podcast, he brings a grounded, audience-first voice to conversations covering everything fitness—from strength training, recovery, and sport performance to nutrition, mental health, injury prevention, and overall wellness. He is passionate about making fitness education accessible, sustainable, and rooted in science. Outside of the gym and work, Frank enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, and relaxing with a good show.  

Can caffeine change the game? We have heard that caffeine can, in fact, improve performance whether that is through research or personal experience. In this episode, NSCA certified trainer Aaron Patterson walks you through a meta-analysis published in 2024 that looks into the effects of acute caffeine intake on specific performance in intermittent sports. It can be found in the Human Kinetics Journals. Can Caffeine Change the Game? Effects of Acute Caffeine Intake on Specific Performance in Intermittent Sports During Competition: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis https://ecs.page.link/FKJZJ   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

The calendar shouldn’t dictate when you set new goals, but with the new year, it is top of mind for many people. As you prepare for these changes, ask yourself if you are setting the right type of goals. In this episode, NSCA certified trainer and Mental Performance Consultant Aaron Patterson discusses the three types of goals you should consider, and why goal setting works.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

Busy times often mean stressful and anxious moments. When your schedule is full, life can seem overwhelming. It is in those moments when stress management plays a key role in staying present and reducing acute anxiety. In this episode, Certified Mental Performance Consultant Aaron Patterson and certified personal trainer Frank Eyeson discuss stress management, the importance of physical and mental recovering, and how to work through the chaos of busy seasons.   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS Aaron Patterson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 12 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS).   Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a CMPC, Aaron coaches high performers on mental aspects of their sport performance to build confidence, reduce anxiety, regulate their emotions, and more.   As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.   Frank Eyeson, MS, NASM-CPT, CWC, CNC Frank Eyeson provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health and fitness, including exercise technique videos and podcast episodes. As a marketing and social media manager, Frank also develops strategic campaigns that connect audiences with trusted, evidence-based resources to help them move better, train smarter, and live healthier.   With over 10 years of experience in the fitness industry, Frank is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and nutrition coach through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). He holds a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology from Western Illinois University and a master's degree in Strategic Brand Communication from the University of Illinois. Frank’s content resonates with health-conscious individuals and fitness professionals alike, bridging the gap between expert knowledge and real-world application. On the Human Kinetics podcast, he brings a grounded, audience-first voice to conversations covering everything fitness—from strength training, recovery, and sport performance to nutrition, mental health, injury prevention, and overall wellness. He is passionate about making fitness education accessible, sustainable, and rooted in science. Outside of the gym and work, Frank enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, and relaxing with a good show.

We know the benefits of strength training as we age, but what about specifically for parents? In this episode, trainer, author, and parent Betina Gozo discusses the importance of strength training as a parent of young kids, and tips for staying consistent with training during a busy season. Get more tips and insight in her book, Women's Muscle and Strength.   Women's Muscle & Strength https://ecs.page.link/AQj4X Betina Gozo Shimonek Betina Gozo Shimonek has over a decade of experience as a certified trainer. She has worked for over 10 years as a Nike Global Trainer, programming and consulting for the brand, and she was featured in the Nike Training Club app leading a popular Strength for Beginners program. In 2016, she won the Women's Health Next Fitness Star contest. She published The Women's Guide to Strength Training in 2017. she also partnered with Prevention magazine in 2019 to create Get Strong With Betina Gozo, a four-week workout DVD for beginners and aging people who want to stay active. Gozo Shimonek cohosts the lifestyle podcast Beyond the Routine alongside her husband, Nic. They also created an accessible performance training platform, LiNE UP With Us. She was one of the original 21 trainers featured on the Apple Fitness+ team teaching weekly strength and core workouts and leading the service's Workouts for Beginners program. She is also a contributor to the Nike Well Collective, which focuses on five pillars of holistic fitness: movement, mindfulness, nutrition, rest, and connection. Gozo Shimonek is passionate about empowering women to work out in any stage of their lives. From killer workouts to tips on how to navigate the weight room, she shares her expertise to help women get the most out of their resistance workouts. She also travels the world, empowering and connecting women through her women's only strength training workshops and women's strength training camps.

When Samantha Wood began her career, she was interested in physical therapy and using methods to help individuals recover from injury. While working with a pro basketball team, she learned that Pilates was one of those methods that could help bring athletes and gen pop clients back to health in a safe and efficient way. She believed in it so much that she wrote a book about it. In this episode, she discusses how she brought the world of Pilates and rehab together, and how others can benefit from the methods that have helped her find success. You can learn more in her book, Pilates for Rehabilitation, Second Edition. Pilates for Rehabilitation, Second Edition https://ecs.page.link/MyXLy Samantha Wood, MPT, MBA, NCPT, RYT Samantha Wood is a licensed physical therapist, and an associate faculty member for BASI Pilates. She is a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher and holds the Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT) credential. She previously owned and operated The Cypress Center in Pacific Palisades, California, where for over 23 years she and her staff integrated Pilates with physical therapy for people of all ages and abilities. Her clinical expertise includes Pilates-based rehabilitation, yoga therapy, orthopedics, sports therapy, and functional rehabilitation. Wood received her bachelor's degree in exercise science from the University of Southern California (USC), where she worked as a student athletic trainer with athletes from all sports but specialized in volleyball, football, and track. After graduation, she worked as a fitness instructor for The Golden Door Spa on board Cunard cruise ships. Two years later, she earned a Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) degree from Western University of Health Sciences. She also holds an MBA degree from USC. She has worked with many celebrities and professional athletes; while at HealthSouth in Arizona, she was a physical therapist for the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Coyotes, Phoenix Mercury, and Arizona Rattlers. In 2010, she was selected as the physical therapist for the EAS Unstoppable Tour, where her responsibilities included keeping elite athlete Sam Tickle in top physical condition as he completed his 30-sport, 30-city, 30-day journey. Wood began her Pilates studies in 2001 with Rael Isacowitz and has since attended many of Rael's advanced courses, including the prestigious Legacy program (Mentor, Master I, Master II, and Honors Course). She created and teaches three advanced education courses for BASI Pilates: two for Pilates teachers and one for rehabilitation professionals. She has been presenting these courses, as well as teaching other workshops and lecturing at Pilates conferences around the world, since 2010. Wood writes for Pilates Style magazine and contributes a monthly article for The Pilates Journal based on the most current research in the Pilates industry. in 2024, she was the runner-up for The Pilates Journal Educator of the Year award.  Wood can be found at @samanthawoodphysio on Instagram and YouTube. Her website is Samanthawoodphysio.com.  

Have you ever heard an athlete say they wish they were slower? Quite the opposite. Speed can be a difference-maker for an athlete, and could be the difference between making a play or winning a game. But what is speed and is it the same for every sport? In this episode, NSCA certified trainer and Certified Speed and Agility Coach Aaron Patterson takes a dive into the topic of speed development, what it means to be fast, and the similarities and differences in training for speed based on sport. Additional Resources Developing Speed, Second Edition https://ecs.page.link/WmUag The Anatomy of Speed https://ecs.page.link/zJtmn Developing Agility and Quickness, Second Edition https://ecs.page.link/f6S9j  Human Kinetics Journals https://ecs.page.link/swHVD   Aaron Patterson, M.S., NSCA-CPT, CWPC, CSAC, CTPS  Aaron provides informative and educational content for Human Kinetics in the areas of health, fitness, strength and conditioning, and sport performance including exercise technique videos, author interviews, and podcast episodes. Certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Aaron has over 11 years of experience as a personal trainer and sport performance coach. He holds specialty certifications as a Certified Weightlifting Performance Coach (CWPC), Certified Speed and Agility Coach (CSAC), and Certified Tennis Performance Specialist (CTPS). Training primarily middle school and high school athletes, Aaron recognized the growing need for athletes to also work on their mental performance. It was then that he pursued his master's degree in Kinesiology with a focus in Exercise and Sport Psychology to become a Certified Mental Performance Consultant. As a track and field coach specializing in jumps and sprints, Aaron is also a Certified American Sport Education Program Coach, and is a member of the National High School Strength Coaches Association (NHSSCA), the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP). Aaron completed his Master of Science in Kinesiology, Exercise and Sport Psychology, from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.

Sarcopenia. Osteoporosis, Chronic disease related to aging. There are multiple reason to continue gaining strength and building muscle as we age. Whether you want to look and feel healthy, or combat the effects of sarcopenia and osteoporosis, Chad Landers is here to help. In this episode, the 2018 NSCA Personal Trainer of the Year discusses the importance and benefits of building strength and muscle after age 50, and explains how to do it. He even throws in some 80s references for the Gen X crowd. Listen along and learn more in his book, Building Strength and Muscle After 50.  Building Strength and Muscle After 50 https://ecs.page.link/mPPXz Chad Landers Chad Landers is a 1991 graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He has a graduate diploma in sports nutrition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and he was the National Strength and Conditioning Associate (NSCA) Personal Trainer of the Year in 2018. Landers is in his 32nd year as a personal trainer in Los Angeles, California, and has owned and operated PUSH Private Fitness, a personal training-only gym, for over 20 years. He is known for his work with actors and musicians who need to look their best for the stage and screen. Current and former clients include William (Billy) Zabka, Duff McKagan, Sarh Hyland, Robbie Amell, Lyndsy Fonseca, and Corbin Bleu, among others. In addition to competing in the sport of powerlifting, Landers enjoys writing and public speaking. He has been featured in Men's Health, Women's Health, People, AARP The Magazine, Onnit, Yahoo!, Personal Fitness Professional, and Personal Trainer Development Center and has been a guest on numerous podcasts.  

Kettlebells are a versatile tool to use in training, especially for athletes. Dr. Michael Hartle, author of Kettlebell Strength Training Anatomy, joined NSCA certified trainer Aaron Patterson to discuss kettlebell training and how it can be used to enhance athletic performance. Kettlebell Strength Training Anatomy https://ecs.page.link/S4T56 Dr. Michael Hartle Dr. Michael Hartle is a full-time chiropractic physician. He is also certified as a nutritionist (DACBN), chiropractic sports physician (CCSP), and strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS). He also holds the Master Instructor certification from StrongFirst (StrongFirst.com). He is the co-developer of the StrongFirst SFL barbell certification. Dr. Michael travels around the United States and the world teaching barbell and kettlebell certification courses. He is also currently working toward his PhD in exercise science at Concordia University Chicago. He has been practicing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, for the last 27 years. A former nationally ranked powerlifter who has won several national titles with USA Powerlifting (USAPL), Dr. Michael was the vice president for two years in addition to being the drug testing chairperson for five years. He was also the chairperson of their Sports Medicine Committee for over 20 years, a committee he created in 1994. Starting in 1998, he was the head coach of the USAPL world bench press team for eight years, coaching the U.S. team to the 2004 International Powerlifting Federation World Championship team title. His best competition lifts are 705-pound squat, 535-pound bench press, and 635-pound deadlift, with a best combined total of the three lifts of 1,840 pounds in the former 275-pound weight class. For the next 10 years, he was playing semi-pro football as a defensive tackle—and loving it! His football team, the Adams County Patriots, won the National AA Semi-Pro Football Championship in 2008 and were undefeated for two years straight. He treats patients from babies to senior citizens, and he trains and advises athletes of all levels, from youth athletes to NCAA student-athletes and professional athletes. He coached junior high football and track and field, volunteering his time, for 16 years. He has three sons and three grandchildren who keep him busy with their personal endeavors, including crawling, hockey, football, lacrosse, track and field, and, of course, academics.