
Rick Richey, DHSc, MS, LMT
Owner and Fitness Expert
With over two decades in the industry, Rick Richey is a trainer, educator, and business mentor helping personal trainers build, grow, and thrive independently. From coaching and content creation to hosting the award-winning NASM CPT Podcast, Rick shares his expertise to empower fitness professionals worldwide.
My Background

My Background
With a Doctor of Health Science and a Master’s in Exercise Science, Rick has spent over 20 years shaping the fitness industry as a trainer, educator, and mentor.
An experienced personal trainer, orthopedic massage therapist, and strength coach, he has taught at universities, presented at global conferences, and contributed to leading NASM textbooks.
Before finding his passion for fitness, he moved to NYC to model and act—only to realize his true calling was in coaching and education.
Rick is the host of the award-winning NASM CPT Podcast, where he shares expert insights on exercise science, business growth, and coaching strategies.
When he’s not coaching or speaking, you’ll find him traveling, training in BJJ, boxing, and MMA, or cheering on Alabama football (Roll Tide!) with his family.
As the owner of Independent Training Spot in NYC, he is committed to helping personal trainers take control, grow their businesses, and succeed on their own terms.
Expertise
- Strength & Conditioning
- Corrective Exercise & Rehabilitation
- Movement & Mobility Optimization
- Business & Career Development for Trainers
- Fitness Education & Curriculum Design
- Podcast Hosting & Content Creation
Higher Education
- Doctor of Health Science (DHSc)
- Master’s in Exercise Science (MS)
Key Roles
- Educator & Subject Matter Expert for NASM
- Owner of Independent Training Spot
- Co-Owner of ReCOVER
- Host of the NASM CPT Podcast
Fitness Education & Certifications
- NASM Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)
- Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
- Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)
- MMA Conditioning Specialist
- NSCA Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
- Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)
Specialist Skills
- Fitness Industry Presenter – Over 100 conferences worldwide
- Award-Winning Educator – IDEA World Personal Trainer of the Year (2022)
- Media & Thought Leadership – Featured in The New York Times, Forbes, Oprah.com, and more.
As Featured In:


TV Engagements
- Good Morning America (GMA) – Fitness Segment, May 2024
Media Articles
- The New York Times – Presidential Fitness Test for Adults
- Forbes – Recovery Technology for Travelers
- Oprah.com – Weight Loss & Wellness Strategies
- Self Magazine – Best Home Gym Equipment
- PopSugar – 75 Soft Challenge Insights
- The Healthy – Gentle Flexibility Exercises
- Well+Good – ReCOVER Studio Launch
- Athletech News – Exclusive Trainer Interview
Podcasts
- Host of the NASM CPT Podcast
- Winner 2023 Marcom Gold Award for Informational Single Episode
- Winner 2021 Sharecare Award for Social Storytelling
- Better Than Fine with Darlene Marshall
- Peak Physique Podcast with Andre Adams
- The Future of Fitness with Eric Malzone
Speaking Engagements
Rick is a globally recognized speaker, having delivered over 100 presentations at leading fitness and wellness conferences across the USA, Canada, Mexico, India, Thailand, South Korea, China, Indonesia, UAE, and more.
Recent Articles
Signs You Are Outgrowing Your Commercial Gym Job
Is Personal Training a Good Side Hustle in NYC?
How Much Should I Charge as a Personal Trainer in NYC?
Personal Training Career Paths: Employee vs. Independent vs. Online Coaching
How to Become a Personal Trainer in NYC: A Step-by-Step Guide
What is the Best Gym for Personal Trainers in NYC: Full Comparison Guide
Best Personal Training Certification in NYC (And How to Choose the Right One for You)
What Permits, Insurance, and Certifications Do You Need as an Independent Trainer in NYC?
Why Independent Training Spot Is the Best Gym for Personal Trainers in NYC
The Hidden Costs of Working at a Big Box Gym (and How to Break Free)
How to Market Yourself as an Independent Personal Trainer in NYC (Without Spending a Fortune)
How to Transition from Gym Employee to Independent Personal Trainer in NYC
Top 5 Mistakes an NYC Independent Personal Trainer Should Avoid
How to Find the Best Independent Gym Space to Train Clients in NYC
The Ultimate Checklist for Transitioning from Employed to Independent Personal Trainer in NYC
Gym Trainer vs. Independent Trainer: Pros & Cons
How Much Should I Charge as a Personal Trainer in NYC?
How Much Does It Cost to Rent Gym Space as a Personal Trainer in NYC?
How Many Clients Do Personal Trainers Need in NYC?
How to Get Personal Training Clients in NYC
Client Reviews
We Get It – Finding the Right Personal Trainer is Hard
Choosing a personal trainer can be overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know who’s truly right for you?
It’s not just about expertise; it’s about finding someone who understands your unique goals, fits your lifestyle, and motivates you to succeed.
At ITS, we simplify the process by hand-picking trainers who align perfectly with your needs.
Let us handle the search so you can focus on what really matters—achieving your fitness goals.