Articles

The International Sports Sciences Association was the first organization to educate and certify personal trainers. What few people know is the motivation behind the development of this institution and the vision of its founders.  This is the story of the founding of the ISSA.

Victoria, B.C.-based personal trainer Kyla Gagnon has created a career that, for her, was made in heaven. Read on to see how she expanded her business to include a retreat in Bali. 

From an overweight teen to personal trainer, Leo Figueredo uses his past to help others find a way to a healthier life. Read the full article on the blog to learn how this ISSA trainer turned his life around and started his own business.

Chris Romano’s competitive fires still burn at the age of 38, and the ISSA master trainer is making his mark as an Olympic weightlifter.

After eight rounds of yo-yo dieting with the same 50 pounds, Adrian Kurre finally realized it just wasn’t working. So, he turned to science and discovered the ISSA. Check out his story and see where the future is taking him.

During his nearly 50 years of coaching football, Dan Weller has emphasized the critical role strength and fitness plays in maximizing performance. At 71 he remains passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping athletes reach their potential.

On a mission to improve lives for those dealing with and recovering from medical challenges, Lisa Dougherty has developed a medical fitness network to connect fitness and health professionals across the globe.

Andy Dooley was told he’d have to choose between fitness and faith—be a trainer or be a pastor. But he wasn’t willing to settle for one or the other. Dooley now operates a growing fitness business and serves as a youth pastor in his home community. 

The motivation to be fit and inspire others to do the same comes in many forms, especially when faced with mortality. Once out of shape and heading down a dangerous path, Mike Lee is now a successful ISSA trainer, fitness model and actor, and growing presence in the online fitness coaching world. Read his journey here.

So you think you can dance? Angie Gunner thinks you can, too, and more specifically believes that you should be doing it on a regular basis as part of a healthy lifestyle. Read the full article here. 

Sharon Lipton is 68 years old and strong! She competed as a bodybuilder at age 51 and won the overall in the NPC Max Muscle Natural. People of all ages respect her great knowledge and how she helps folks maintain a youthful, fit body and mind. Her motto is 'Believe in yourself,' and 'Go Get 'um!' Read Sharon’s story to be inspired and know that you are never too old to be a personal trainer!

What do potential employers look for when hiring great trainers? Fitness author, business owner, and former competitive bodybuilder Jeremy Scott walks us through the qualities that take fitness professionals from good to great. Then, he weighs in on the importance of practical application in the ever-changing landscape for personal trainers and nutrition coaches. Read his full article here.