Written by: Tammy LeBoss, The FitPro Foodie

Ready for that time of year, full of chilly evenings, colorful leaves, festivals and holiday gatherings? For many foodies, it’s a fun time to experiment with new recipes. This season, try bumping up your smart fuel source using the power of pumpkin. Pumpkin packs a punch of the antioxidant powerhouse, beta-carotene, vitamins C and E, potassium, and a hearty dose of vegetable fiber. It is considered to be one of nature’s richest sources of the beta carotene which is converted to vitamin A by the body; this plays an important role in many vital functions. Current research suggests that beta carotene may also serve as a powerful tool for fighting cancer and heart disease. Pumpkin is not only a smart fuel source, but it’s also low in sugar. Containing many trace minerals, including over 560 milligrams of potassium, pumpkin can help to balance out the body’s sodium to potassium ratio; this is important for optimal cellular function and energy production.

Pumpkin Seed Soup

Why pumpkin seeds? Pumpkin seeds have been referred to by nutritional experts as one of the world’s oldest and most recognized superfoods!

Here’s the easiest way to cook pumpkin seeds: Remove seeds from 1 large pumpkin, then rinse and dry. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Scatter pumpkin seeds onto a sheet pan in a single layer and drizzle with olive or pumpkin seed oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Bake for about 7 minutes, until light brown and crispy.

To prepare the soup, blend seeds with the following ingredients:

• 3 cups of fresh or canned pumpkin puree
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 Tbsp. fresh sage or coriander
• salt and pepper to taste

Add 1 ½ cups sautéed mushrooms, 1/2 cup sautéed onion, 2 tsp. minced shallot, and 2-3 minced and sautéed garlic cloves. Mix over medium heat and then allow to sit on low heat for 15-20 minutes. Top with lightly toasted pumpkin seeds and a small amount of cream, butter or ghee. To boost your anti-oxidant power, learn more about using cold-pressed pumpkin seed oil which can be used in soups, smoothies and more.

Savory Pumpkin Sauce

Is canned as good as fresh? According to a University of Illinois study, canned pumpkin packs about 20 times the amount of beta-carotene of fresh, cooked pumpkin! In general, canned foods are generally picked and quickly cooked and packaged at the peak of ripeness. In the case of pumpkin, the heating used in canning preparation enhances the beta-carotene content in a similar way that heating does the lycopene in tomatoes.

For your next holiday meal, this savory canned pumpkin sauce can be a great pairing with the protein source of your choice. This healthy yet delicious sauce compliments turkey, pork, seafood and veggie dishes. Using ghee or clarified butter adds a buttery, guilt-free richness as well as the benefits of good fats.

Begin by sautéing ½ minced onion and 2-3 cloves of garlic in a small amount of ghee or cooking oil. Add 4 Tbsp. butter or more ghee part way through. Once onion and garlic are nearly done, add 3 Tbsp. of minced fresh parsley. Add 1 ½ cup savory or plain pumpkin puree and 1 cup chicken stock. Allow to warm and mix well. Sprinkle with sea salt and pepper to taste. In serving bowls, pour sauce over prepared protein source of your choice, and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley, pine nuts, or bacon.

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie

Your healthy ‘dessert’ recipe compliments of:  www.mybodysymphony.com

Combine in a blender the following ingredients:

• 4-8 ice cubes
• ½ – 1 frozen banana
• 8-12+ ounces of filtered water, almond or coconut milk. Add liquid before the dry mix to help keep the powders from sticking to the sides of the blender
• 1-2 scoops of Pumpkin Spice SuperFood Protein Mix (or use one of the unflavored varieties and add cinnamon & ginger – 3 to 1 ratio is recommended, depending on how substantial a meal you’d like this to be;
• Optional: to boost protein content add 1 or more scoops of either P3-Paleo Pumpkin Seed Protein or P4-Peak Performance Plant Protein; or substitute with your favorite pumpkin-flavored protein powder;
• Optional: to increase the carbohydrate content, either add more fruit or add a few ounces of oats or granola;
• Blend it for 30-60 seconds (it often helps to pulse it several times to get it going); To adjust the thickness use less or more liquid as desired;
• Top smoothie with nutrient-rich toasted pumpkin seeds, and enjoy!

Equinox, An NAFC Affiliate, has been called a temple of well-being, featuring world-class personal trainers, group fitness classes, and spas. Voted Best Gym in America by Fitness Magazine, Equinox is known for its innovative fitness centers in upscale markets around the world.

Kelli Zahariades, Equinox Tier-2 Personal Trainer speaks out about fitness:

I am a Connecticut native, lucky to be living in San Diego with my spouse thanks to the Marine Corps good graces. I earned a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Southern Connecticut State University. I fell in love with training after a long-term internship with Yale University’s football team as an assistant strength and conditioning coach. I am currently employed by Equinox La Costa as a Tier 2 personal trainer. It is extremely fulfilling for me to educate others on fitness, nutrition, and how to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. My favorite part about my job is I am constantly learning about myself and growing as a trainer. I believe that as long as you get a little bit smarter every day, then you are setting yourself up for a lifetime of success.

What inspired you to become a trainer?

To be honest, all throughout working on my kinesiology degree I never anticipated pursuing personal training as a career after I graduated. I always had a passion for health and fitness, which is why I chose kinesiology, but I feared that if I made PT my job, I would lose my love for it. I had a taste of PT during a 4-month internship as a strength and conditioning coach with the Yale University football team. I found I really enjoyed coaching and motivating the athletes, and I felt immense pride after helping them reach their goals. At this time, I thought this would just be a stepping stone during my college experience. My long-term plan was to graduate with my bachelors and pursue a masters in occupational therapy ASAP. But, my plans changed, and I decided to take a huge leap of faith and move across the country to San Diego to be with my Marine, who is currently serving active duty at Pendleton. I scrambled to look for a job before heading to the west coast. I contemplated and continue to bartend as I did all throughout college, but being a new graduate I felt like I had so much more untapped potential. I came across a listing for a PT job at Equinox and I thought, why not! I felt as though I’m qualified, I enjoy training myself and others, and this could be a great opportunity for me to keep up with exercise science material as I prep for OT school. Later, I honestly had no idea I would love training as much as I do. Aside from my passion of educating others about fitness, nutrition, and health, I absolutely love the connections PT has allowed me to make with others. It’s cool to think that my clients have chosen me to be their coach, and I have become such a large part of their lives. It’s been so exciting seeing my clients fall in love with fitness. I make sure to celebrate the small victories with them, such as increasing weight in their squat, or gaining 1 lb. of muscle mass. That is ultimately what inspires me to continue to be a personal trainer. The progress that I have helped my clients make, as well as witnessing how that progress makes them feel empowered, inspired, strong, and worthy is what gets me up for work at 4:30 am every day.

What are 2 of your greatest training challenges?

1. Instilling motivation in new clients! Sometimes people begin training very motivated and ready to work hard, but others just joined because they know they needed to. Those individuals can be difficult to motivate at first because they are working hard but aren’t seeing any results yet. This is where is gets difficult to get them to do their “homework” that I assign them on our off days. For example, solo gym or home workouts, cardio, foam rolling, and stretching.

2. Nutrition! Trying to emphasize the importance of nutrition and how slacking on this component will always, always hinder them from reaching their goals. Especially on the weekends. So many people do well all week and then completely sabotage their progress on the weekends. To prevent this, I try to give them the tools and knowledge to build a healthy lifestyle that balances eating nutrient-dense foods while still enjoying life, and the things that they enjoy.

How would you like to see the fitness industry improved?

I would love to see an end in the negative stigma that is incorporated around the “weight room.” So often I have heard how intimidating walking into a gym can be for some individuals. New clients have said to me that they often felt very anxious and nervous coming into the gym, sometimes to the point where they wanted to quit. Some women (and men!) do not have the confidence to linger away from the cardio section of the gym, and they feel they will be judged by other more “fit” or “strong” people in the weight room. It’s sad to me that there are individuals who are not challenging themselves enough to stray out of their comfort zone. I would love to see the stereotypes that a gym floor is only a place for men and those select strong women become obsolete. Every gym-goer should feel comfortable wandering over to the free weights without fear of being secretly judged or ridiculed. This is where personal training comes in! My main goal as a trainer is to help my clients feel more and more comfortable in the weight room, even if they have not been brave enough to admit it is one of their fears. I do this by assigning them “homework,” that requires them to get to the weights on our days off of training together. I have found that by sending them out solo after a couple of weeks working as a team has helped them feel more at ease, and as though they are “strong” enough to belong on the floor.

June M. Chewning MA, BS, AEA

The information provided is adapted from “Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention and Intervention,” a Medical Fitness Specialist Certificate Program authored by Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation (ARPF) and produced by Fitness Learning Systems.

Dementia is a syndrome characterized by a chronic deterioration relating to memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform activities of daily living. Consciousness, however, is not affected. Dementia is not a normal part of aging. The cause may be related to a variety of diseases and injuries that may have affected the brain. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

There are 47.5 million people suffering from dementia worldwide, with 7.7 million new cases each year. The most common cause of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, makes up 60-70% of cases. (Dementia 2016) Millions of Americans are challenged by Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. In 2016, an estimated 5.4 million Americans of various ages are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and approximately 5.2 million of those are ages 65 and older. (Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures 2016)

Although there are natural physiological changes that occur with age, memory loss is neither normal nor a natural process of aging. It is important to take a proactive role in retaining the strength, resiliency, and vitality of the brain. Research has shown that just as the body needs strength-building exercises to maintain muscle strength, so does the brain.

Physical exercise is identified through recent research as one of the key elements in the ARPF 4 Pillars of Prevention.  “Although at this time, medications have no proven neuroprotective effect on dementia, an evolving literature documents significant benefit of long-term regular exercise on cognition, dementia risk, and perhaps dementia progression.” (Ahlskog 2011 metanalysis)  Many studies suggest that exercise reduces the effects of dementing neurodegenerative mechanisms.

At this time, research significantly indicates that exercise is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. This appears to happen in two ways: (Ahlskog 2011)

1. A convergence of evidence from both animal and human studies indicate that aerobic exercise seems to reduce the risk of degeneration of brain processes and seems to protect the brain from biological and neurological decline.
2. The cardiovascular benefits of aerobic exercise reduce vascular risk improving cerebrovascular (carotid and brain artery) health, reducing plaque build-up, and maintaining better circulation to the brain.

As fitness professionals, we are in a position more than ever to help people with making healthy lifestyle choices and with maintaining quality of life.  Exercise is critical to the biological and neurological health of the brain and vascular system that feeds the brain.  Learn more about ways to prevent cognitive decline to help your clients live a long, healthy life with vigor and clarity.

Bibliography:

• Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation. (2016)  Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention and Intervention Medical Fitness Specialist Program. www.FitnessLearningSystems.com. 888.221.1612.
• Ahlskog, J. Eric, Yonas E. Geda, Neill R. Graff-Radford, and Ronald C. Petersen. “Physical Exercise as a Preventive or Disease-Modifying Treatment of Dementia and Brain Aging.” Mayo Clinic. Proceedings 86.9 (2011): 876-84. Web.

Alzheimer’s Disease is now the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. All health-fitness professionals are called to stem this epidemic with prevention and intervention. Get educated and get on board!

Link to: Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention and Intervention Specialist Certificate Program

By: Chris Gellert, PT, MMusc & Sportsphysio, MPT, CSCS, AMS

The shoulder is one of the most vulnerable joints in the body due to its vast range of motion and complexity. It is a complex ball and socket joint, uniquely comprised of various connective tissue, supporting structures, including muscles. It is an important joint because functionally, it is involved in most daily and sport activities, such as reaching, lifting, carrying and throwing a ball. Knowledge of the biomechanics of the shoulder can help you with training and aiding in the rehabilitation of the shoulder and related injuries.

• Glenohumeral joint (GH)
• Acromioclavicular joint (AC)
• Sternoclavicular joint (SC)
• Scapulothoracic joint

Scapulohumeral Rhythm (SHR) is defined as the movement relationship between the humerus and the scapula during both shoulder flexion and shoulder abduction. Arthrokinematics is the movement that takes place between articular surfaces in a joint.

• The glenohumeral joint (concave) is stable (depicted by the vertical arrow), while the humerus (convex) abducts (depicted by the horizontal arrow).
• There is a sliding down or glide of the convex humerus on the concave glenohumeral joint.
• The scapula rotates upward (bottom of the scapula moves laterally and upward).

During shoulder abduction, there is 120 degrees of movement that occurs at the glenohumeral joint, while 60 degrees occurs at the scapulothoracic joint, creating a 2 to 1 ratio (2:1). This movement is known as the scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR) of shoulder abduction.

The same SHR occurs both during shoulder flexion and shoulder abduction (Figure 3).

The muscle actions that occur when you abduct the arm at the shoulder include:

• Biomechanically, the supraspinatus muscle (Figure 4) raises the arm during the first 15 degrees of shoulder abduction.
• Then, from 15-90 degrees of shoulder abduction, the medial deltoid assists to raise the arm biomechanically.
• There are several muscles within the shoulder that play important roles, specifically at the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is comprised of four primary muscles known as the S.I.T.S muscles. These muscles include the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis which pull the bone in different directions due to different attachment points and angle of pull.
• A force couple can be defined as a pair of muscle forces that act together on a joint to produce rotation. These forces may exert pulls in opposite directions. Force couples may be synergistic pairs or agonist/antagonist pairs of muscles.  In Figure 5, a force couple occurs between the low trapezius and serratus anterior. During shoulder abduction, the lower trapezius and serratus anterior work together to anterior upwardly rotate the scapula on the thorax.

Abnormal scapulohumeral rhythm is a dysfunction that occurs within the scapulothoracic junction.

There are many causes for this including:

• A rotator cuff tear where the individual does not have the musculotendinous connection and strength to abduct the arm.
• Limitations due to joint and capsule hypomobility (restriction) known as adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).
• Pain and/or muscular weakness that prevent the ability to raise the arm to the side.
• Occurrence of excessive upper trapezius and scapular elevation which becomes a means of compensation, and provides the individual with an alternative ability to abduct the arm.

Why is this important?

• Connective tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia) are supposed to move. Joints, as well, have a certain amount of movement and should glide and translate with everyday movement.
• Muscle imbalances and tightness create dysfunction. If a muscle does not have adequate muscle length to concentrically and eccentrically contract, compensation will occur typically above and below a joint.
• If this tightness continues, it will result in trigger points. Trigger points are where a muscle shortens and, in essence, has increased sensitivity affecting the muscle’s ability to completely move as it was designed. If trigger points become bigger and more prominent, they can compress the nerve that innervates the respective muscle creating radicular (fuzzy feeling, numbness, or tingling) symptoms.

For more information about working with clients with shoulder issues, see the Fitness Learning Systems Human Movement Matrix: Shoulder continuing education course by Chris Gellert, PT, MMusc & Sportsphysio, MPT, CSCS, AMS of Pinnacle Training & Consulting Systems.  www.pinnacle-tcs.com “Teaching The Science Behind The Movement.” Fitness Learning Systems is an IACET accredited continuing education provider.

Link to: Human Movement Matrix: Shoulder Course

1. Advancing age
2. High blood pressure (hypertension)
3. High blood fats (hyperlipidemia)
4. High blood sugar (pre-diabetes or diabetes)
5. Obesity
6. Smoking, tobacco use, or second-hand smoke exposure
7. Physical inactivity

Did you know there are other risks which have been identified or are being studied that can increase your risk of heart disease by as much as 48%?  Following are some of the risks for heart disease that are important but not as widely publicized.

1. Obesity is a risk factor, but did you know that being of normal weight with an unhealthy diet can increase your risk as well?

   1. Foods that contain high saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol can raise LDL cholesterol levels. Food such as some meats, dairy products, cholesterol, eggs (mainly the yolks), certain types of shellfish, some baked goods, deep-fried, fast food, and processed foods contain these fats and should be limited in the diet.

   2. High sodium foods such as processed and/or canned food, as well as deli meats, should be eaten sparingly. These foods can contribute to hypertension especially if salt-sensitive.

   3. Added sugars in food will also give extra calories lacking good nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Consuming too much sugar can lead to weight gain which can raise the risk of CHD. Limit foods that contain a lot of sugar such as several desserts, canned fruits stored in syrup, fruit drinks and non-diet sodas.

   4. Finally, too much alcohol may increase blood pressure and also add extra calories which may lead to weight gain. The amount of alcohol consumed should be limited.

2. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to CHD. Unfortunately, stress and anxiety can trigger the arteries to tighten causing blood pressure to rise to increase the risk of heart attack. One of the most commonly reported events precipitating a heart attack is an emotionally upsetting event, especially one that involves anger.  Stress may also cause an increase in habits such as smoking or overeating, which can indirectly raise the risk of CHD by triggering other risk factors.  Chronic stress triggers chronic levels of cortisol which increases inflammation in the body.
3. Poor hygiene can likewise be a culprit. Viral and bacterial infections from not regularly washing your hands and other poor hygiene habits can increase the risk of heart infections, especially if there is an underlying heart condition.
4. Some studies have shown that bacteria in the mouth that are involved in the development of periodontal disease can move into the bloodstream and cause an elevation in C-reactive protein, a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels. These changes can, in turn, increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. There is research to both support and refute the possible link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease, and more studies are needed to see how the two may be linked. Regardless of the relationship, maintaining optimal oral hygiene is an important component of your overall health. (Cleveland Clinic)
5. Lack of sleep is bad for your heart. A 2011 European Heart Journal review of 15 medical studies involving almost 475,000 people found that short sleepers had a 48% increased risk of developing or dying from coronary heart disease (CHD) in a seven to 25-year follow-up period (depending on the study) and a 15% greater risk of developing or dying from stroke during this same time. Interestingly, long sleepers — those who averaged nine or more hours a night — also showed a 38% increased risk of developing or dying from CHD and a 65% increased risk of stroke.  Researchers caution that the mechanisms behind shortened and prolonged sleep and heart disease aren’t completely understood. “Lack of sleep doesn’t necessarily cause heart disease,” says Phyllis Zee, MD, PhD, professor of neurology and director of the Sleep Disorders Program at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “It really increases the risk factors for heart disease.”  (Web MD)

For more information about working with clients with chronic disease, see the Fitness Learning Systems Chronic Disease and Exercise Specialist Certificate Program.  Specialize and become recognized as a medical fitness professional.  Fitness Learning Systems is an IACET accredited continuing education provider.

By Fitness Learning Systems

Link to Courses Page: Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome course and Chronic Disease Specialist Certificate

Clients with chronic disease are also unavoidable. They are prevalent in the population in large numbers and need health-fitness professionals to help them prevent, manage, and live a better life with the disease. With almost every chronic disease, research clearly indicates that exercise plays a role in prevention, recovery, and management of the disease.

One of the best ways to prepare yourself to work with clients with chronic disease is to educate yourself about the etiology, progression, and prevention of the disease so that you can safely and effectively use exercise as a tool to improve function and quality of life. With the need for medical fitness becoming more respected and sought after, proper knowledge becomes essential to safe and effective intervention.

Here are 4 Chronic Disease tips to help you move toward better practice with chronic disease clients.

Proper health history and risk factor analysis is critical to the foundation of working with clients with chronic disease. Use it to discover the presence of disease and possibly multiple diseases, the risk of disease to apply prevention strategies, history of disease progression, and current function and activity levels to establish a starting point. In chapter 10 of the ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription 9th edition, there is a great section with information and guidelines for working with Individuals with Multiple Chronic Diseases and Health Conditions.

Prevention of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is important for a safe exercise program for someone who has diabetes. If you work with someone taking insulin or an oral medication that may cause hypoglycemia, you should be aware of the symptoms and how to manage this situation, especially during exercise. Hypoglycemia occurs when glucose levels are < 70mg/dl. This condition may become worse if not treated. Prevention is the best intervention.
Symptoms may include:

• sweating
• shaking
• dizziness
• headache
• confusion
• irritability
• hunger
• personality change
• weakness
• vision changes
• seizures and/or loss of consciousness.

When working with cancer patients and survivors, avoid high-intensity resistance training for muscles located under or near a port or a PICC line. (A port is an implanted venous access port or totally implanted port used to insert treatments like chemotherapy into the bloodstream and a PICC line is a permanently inserted flexible tube for long-term intravenous medicine or treatments.) A PICC line is inserted in the upper arm or the fold in the elbow. The port is normally implanted under the skin in the upper chest (pectoralis area), but can be inserted in the back of the upper arm (triceps area) or in the abdominal area.

When working with clients with a Respiratory disease, it is important to do a longer warm up and cool down for clients with asthma, COPD, and other respiratory issues. Choose an appropriate, lower demand cardiorespiratory activity for a beginner or compromised clients such as cycling or walking. Switch to a lower demand exercise during periods of respiratory condition flare-ups. Teach the client proper breathing techniques. There are breathing exercises such as “Pursed Lip Breathing” or “Diaphragmatic Breathing” that help with shortness of breath and the anxiety, fear, and embarrassment that may be present.

Learn More

Fitness Learning Systems offers a Specialist Certificate Program for the 4 most prevalent Chronic Diseases. The Chronic Disease and Exercise Specialist Certificate Program contains 5 interactive online courses: Health Appraisal and Risk Assessment (3 hours); Healthy Heart for a Healthy Life (3 hours); Essential Exercise for Cancer Patients and Survivors (2 hours); Exercise, Diabetes, and Metabolic Syndrome (3 hours); and Respiratory Rescue-Understanding the Pulmonary Dysfunctional Client. (3 hours). Join the Medical Fitness profession and market yourself as a specialist by continuing your education with this 14-hour Specialist Certificate. All courses carry IACET CEUs.

About June Chewning

June has lead in many aspects of the fitness industry since 1978 including teaching physical education and aerobic classes, personal training, employee wellness, facility owner, college professor, and aquatic fitness professional training specialist. Currently she is president of Fitness Learning Systems and enjoys working with authors and organizations to format and develop accredited interactive continuing education eLearning courses.

By Fitness Learning Systems

Link to Courses Page: Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome course and Chronic Disease Specialist Certificate

There are several precautions a client can take to not only prevent hypoglycemia but to also have a safe exercise experience. Use these Guidelines to help your client avoid complications during exercise.

1. Inject insulin in a part of the body that will not actively be used for exercise. The abdomen is recommended.
2. Check blood glucose levels before, during and after exercise the first couple of exercise sessions and/or if trying a new activity.
   Activity type, intensity, and duration may affect glucose levels.
   Typically, 1 hour of exercise = an additional 15 g of carbohydrates either before or after exercise.
3. During exercise, a quick source of carbohydrates (that does not also contain fat) should be readily available such as orange juice or candy.
4. Be aware of a delayed post-exercise hypoglycemia in those who take insulin.
   Metabolism may remain elevate for several hours post-exercise especially during the night.
   Check glucose at bedtime and again a couple hours after (~1-2AM) especially on a day of increased activity.
5. Adequate fluids before during and after exercise are recommended.
6. Wear proper shoes with polyester or blend socks as well as inspecting feet after exercise to practice good foot care.
7. Carry medical identification.

Lobb-Oyos M and Barkley S. (2012) Diabetes Medications: Guidelines for Exercise Safety. ACSM ’s Certified News, 22(3):6-7.

For more information about working with clients with chronic disease, see the Fitness Learning Systems Chronic Disease and Exercise Specialist Certificate Program. Specialize and become recognized as a medical fitness professional. Fitness Learning Systems is an IACET accredited continuing education provider.

By Fitness Learning Systems

Link to Courses Page: Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome course and Chronic Disease Specialist Certificate

In these Mat courses, students develop, execute and teach the historic exercises of Pilates’ Matwork training. Refine your understanding of the body, movement efficiency along with a deeper understanding of proper form and function to ensure student safety at all training levels. Specific instruction on modifications and adjustments, as well as safety and teaching strategies are detailed. Through the education gained in this course, students are able to teach a variety of exercises that can be adapted for practically any level client.

PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION OPTIONS

1. PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION: Mat 1*

2. PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION: Mat 2*

*PREREQUISITES: PILATES COACH: FOUNDATIONS OF MOVEMENT

 1. PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION: Mat 1*

CEC – NAFC: 1.80 ACE: 1.80

This Mat 1 course is the foundation to begin Pilates and prepares students to develop, execute and teach the historic exercises of Pilates Mat-work training. Learn to instruct as a critical-thinking trainer capable of understanding the anatomy of a particular exercise and purpose of each movement.

Understand:

• Pilates exercises and their purpose
• Learn the foundational exercises you will need to teach
• How to activate all core muscles.
• How to apply breath control with all three planes of movement to achieve different results

WHAT’S INCLUDED:

• Convenience: Study online at times and places that fit your busy schedule.
• Online Testing: Take your certification exam whenever you’re ready with NAFC’s encrypted, electronically proctored online testing.
• Unlimited Educational Support: If you have questions about the course materials, contact us!
• Customer Support: Support both before and after you become certified.
• Accreditation: NAFC is proud to be accredited by IACET and affiliated with NBFE.

THROUGH THE PILATES COACH: MAT 1 CERTIFICATION, STUDENTS WILL:

• Learn how to instruct as a critical-thinking trainer capable of understanding the anatomy of particular exercises and purpose of each movement.
• Identify and execute exercise progressions.
• Utilize form safety checks for exercise.
• Cue and perform over 20 Pilates mat-work exercises.

UPON REGISTRATION, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE:

• A student interactive manual with images for each exercise
• Videos for each exercise
• A master class
• A model class design plan
• Anatomy and Physiology Module to include: PDF Manual, 17 video lectures with animation, 6 memory games to help you retain the knowledge

STEPS TO COURSE COMPLETION:

• Successful completion of an online theory exam
• Submission of a video for evaluation
• Successful completion of a live or a virtual practical evaluation
• 30-minute consultation
• Submission of 20 practical log hours
• Submission of CPR/AED certification

*PREREQUISITES: PILATES COACH: FOUNDATIONS OF MOVEMENT

 2. PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION: Mat 2

CEC – NAFC: .80 ACE: .80

In Mat Level 2 students will focus and refine their understanding of the body and movement efficiency. Students will gain a deeper understanding of proper form and function to ensure student safety at all training levels. In addition, students will begin to utilize props and tools in their delivery of Pilates matwork instruction and will refine their instructional presentation of education to students.

Understand:

• Convenience: Study online at times and places that fit your busy schedule.
• Online Testing: Take your certification exam whenever you’re ready with NAFC’s encrypted, electronically proctored online testing.
• Unlimited Educational Support: If you have questions about the course materials, contact us!
• Customer Support: Support both before and after you become certified.
• Accreditation: NAFC is proud to be accredited by IACET and affiliated with NBFE.

THROUGH THE PILATES COACH: MAT 2 CERTIFICATION, STUDENTS WILL:
Mat level 2 is a continuation of level 1 using new tools to enhance sequencing and program design.

• Learn and experience the use of Pilates “tools” using Pilates Rings and mini balls.
• Open up a whole new concept of training with Tri-plane movement methodology.
• Turn exercise into dynamic functional movements that translate into everyday activities.
• Incorporate tools to train more effectively than with just a mat.
• Learn our innovative and unique approach to applied functional movement.

UPON REGISTRATION, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE:

• A student interactive manual with images for each exercise
• Videos for each exercise
• A master class
• A model class design plan

STEPS TO COURSE COMPLETION:

• Successful completion of an online theory exam
• Submission of a video evaluation
• 30-minute consultation
• Successful completion of a live or a virtual practical evaluation
• Submission of CPR/AED certification

*PREREQUISITES: PILATES COACH: MAT 1

In these Mat courses, students develop, execute and teach the historic exercises of Pilates’ Matwork training. Refine your understanding of the body, movement efficiency along with a deeper understanding of proper form and function to ensure student safety at all training levels. Specific instruction on modifications and adjustments, as well as safety and teaching strategies are detailed. Through the education gained in this course, students are able to teach a variety of exercises that can be adapted for practically any level client.

PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION OPTIONS

1. PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION: Mat 2

*PREREQUISITES: PILATES COACH: FOUNDATIONS OF MOVEMENT

 1. PILATES COACH MAT CERTIFICATION: Mat 2

CEC – NAFC: .80 ACE: .80

In Mat Level 2 students will focus and refine their understanding of the body and movement efficiency. Students will gain a deeper understanding of proper form and function to ensure student safety at all training levels. In addition, students will begin to utilize props and tools in their delivery of Pilates matwork instruction and will refine their instructional presentation of education to students.

Understand:

• Convenience: Study online at times and places that fit your busy schedule.
• Online Testing: Take your certification exam whenever you’re ready with NAFC’s encrypted, electronically proctored online testing.
• Unlimited Educational Support: If you have questions about the course materials, contact us!
• Customer Support: Support both before and after you become certified.
• Accreditation: NAFC is proud to be accredited by IACET and affiliated with NBFE.

THROUGH THE PILATES COACH: MAT 2 CERTIFICATION, STUDENTS WILL:
Mat level 2 is a continuation of level 1 using new tools to enhance sequencing and program design.

• Learn and experience the use of Pilates “tools” using Pilates Rings and mini balls.
• Open up a whole new concept of training with Tri-plane movement methodology.
• Turn exercise into dynamic functional movements that translate into everyday activities.
• Incorporate tools to train more effectively than with just a mat.
• Learn our innovative and unique approach to applied functional movement.

UPON REGISTRATION, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE:

• A student interactive manual with images for each exercise
• Videos for each exercise
• A master class
• A model class design plan

STEPS TO COURSE COMPLETION:

• Successful completion of an online theory exam
• Submission of a video evaluation
• 30-minute consultation
• Successful completion of a live or a virtual practical evaluation
• Submission of CPR/AED certification

*PREREQUISITES: PILATES COACH: MAT 1

The NAFC Nutrition Coach Foundations course blends sound basic science with the latest in results-proven nutritional science. Learn how to master proven coaching skills that will help you successfully guide your clients toward better health, better performance, and a better body! Get started now!

Learn how to build a foundation of nutritional knowledge to help guide your clients in developing their food plans. This certification is based on college-level nutrition courses.

NUTRITION COACH CERTIFICATION PROGRAM OPTIONS

1. NUTRITION COACH CERTIFICATION: Self-Study

2. PERFORMANCE NUTRITION + SPORTS SUPPLEMENT COACH: Self-Study

 1. NUTRITION COACH CERTIFICATION: Self-Study

CEC NAFC: 2.00 NESTA: 2.00 VALID FOR 24 MONTHS

With this course, you will build a foundation of nutritional knowledge to help guide your clients in developing their food plans. This certification is based on college-level nutrition courses.

• Understand the controversies.
• Learn to distinguish between reality and myth.
• Get the knowledge you need to become a nutrition coach as an add-on to your current fitness career, or to begin a career in nutrition counseling.

Product Detail

Start a career as a Nutrition Coach through NAFC’s in-depth online certification course!

• Convenience: Study online at times and places that fit your busy schedule.
• Online Testing: Take your certification exam whenever you’re ready with NAFC’s encrypted, electronically proctored online testing.
• Unlimited Educational Support: If you have questions about the course materials, contact us!
• Customer Support: Support both before and after you become certified.
• Accreditation: NAFC is proud to be accredited by IACET and affiliated with NBFE.

NAFC’s Certified Nutrition Coaching course blends sound basic science with the latest in nutritional science along with proven coaching skills to help you successfully guide your clients toward better health, better performance, and a better body!

In Section I of this course, you’ll get a strong introduction to the basic sciences; in Section II you’ll become immersed in the field of nutritional science; in Section III you’ll learn about the art & science of being an effective coach; and finally in Section IV you’ll go through a step-by-step set of instructions on how to implement nutritional coaching competently and profitably (including over 30 pages of questionnaires and assessment tools to use with your clients).

No other nutrition certification puts all of these components together. No other nutrition certification was developed and written by a physician with over 35 years of experience in the areas of nutrition, fitness, personal training, anti-aging medicine, and performance enhancement.

NAFC’s Nutrition Coach Foundations delivers scientifically-based nutrition education so health and fitness professionals can better serve their clients.

• Develop the skills, knowledge, and abilities to successfully work with clients seeking goal-based nutritional guidance.
• Gain an occupational advantage with enhanced education and a credential to differentiate you from your competition!
• Grow your business! More clients seeking nutritional advice from experts equate to more revenue!

 2. PERFORMANCE NUTRITION + SPORTS SUPPLEMENT COACH: Self-Study

CEC NAFC: 1.20 NESTA: 1.20 VALID FOR 24 MONTHS

This course will take you to a level of nutrition knowledge that only the experts truly know. Since nutrition is one of the most important components in guiding your clients to successfully obtaining their fitness goals, this course will give you the tools to offer the most complete fitness nutrition solutions available.

Product Detail

• 260-page full-color PDF study manual
• Online multiple-choice test

The Performance Nutrition & Sports Supplement Coach Certification Course is a collaboration between the authoritative experts from the industry-leading Sports & Nutrition Supplement Guide® and the educational expertise of the NAFC.

*This course may be taken as a standalone for CEC credit. This course requires completion of the Nutrition Coach Certification (Program #1) course. Take both courses now with the Nutrition Coach and Performance Nutrition bundle and Save $120!

STATEMENT FOR QUALIFICATION – PREREQUISITE

A NAFC Personal Fitness Training or Group Fitness Certification must accompany your Virtual Workshop purchase. To complete your Certification, you must participate in either a Live or Virtual workshop and achieve a passing grade. You may also choose to take the Virtual Workshop as a stand-alone CEC fulfillment to maintain your CEC standing.