Part II: What Do Fairy Tales Teach Us About Fitness?
Wed Jan 28 2026
What does the story of the Three Little Pigs have to do with your fitness journey? EVERYTHING!
In this episode of the award-winning “Random Fit” podcast, hosts Wendy Batts and Ken Miller break down how to build a lasting, STRONG foundation for your workouts and healthy habits—so nothing (not even the Big Bad Wolf of setbacks) can blow your progress down.
👉 You’ll learn:
Why fitness quick fixes and crash diets (aka the "straw house" approach) always fail·
The dangers of inconsistent routines ("stick houses") and how to avoid fitness plateaus
· How to build a “brick house” body with proven strategies: SMART goal setting, programmed progression, and mastering the basics before going all-in on intensity
· The SECRET to lasting results? Nailing down a solid foundation and making gradual, meaningful changes
· Real-life stories, pro tips, and actionable takeaways you can start using TODAY
This episode is perfect for:
· Anyone tired of starting over every New Year· Fitness pros looking for science-backed programming advice
· Beginners ready to finally build a body that lasts
· Anyone who loves a fresh, fun approach to health and fitness
🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode. Comment below with your fitness struggles or victories—our hosts want to hear from you!
Coming up next: Episode 3 dives into how to grow your vertical jump—so stay tuned for more fairy-tale-inspired fitness wisdom!
Episode References:
DiStefano, L. J., et al. (2009). The effects of a movement-based exercise program on movement competency and injury risk in high school athletes.
Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 18(4), 481–499. Gabriel, D. A., et al. (2006).
Neuromuscular adaptation to strength training: a meta-analysis.
European Journal of Applied Physiology, 96(3), 273–288. Gavin, H. G., et al. (2014).
Predicting physical activity burnout: The role of exercise dependence, perfectionism, and self-efficacy.
Journal of Sports Sciences, 32(12), 1162–1170. Haff, G. G. (2016).
Periodization of training in sports. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 48(8), 1632–1640.
If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community!
The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM.
Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm
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What does the story of the Three Little Pigs have to do with your fitness journey? EVERYTHING! In this episode of the award-winning “Random Fit” podcast, hosts Wendy Batts and Ken Miller break down how to build a lasting, STRONG foundation for your workouts and healthy habits—so nothing (not even the Big Bad Wolf of setbacks) can blow your progress down. 👉 You’ll learn: Why fitness quick fixes and crash diets (aka the "straw house" approach) always fail· The dangers of inconsistent routines ("stick houses") and how to avoid fitness plateaus · How to build a “brick house” body with proven strategies: SMART goal setting, programmed progression, and mastering the basics before going all-in on intensity · The SECRET to lasting results? Nailing down a solid foundation and making gradual, meaningful changes · Real-life stories, pro tips, and actionable takeaways you can start using TODAY This episode is perfect for: · Anyone tired of starting over every New Year· Fitness pros looking for science-backed programming advice · Beginners ready to finally build a body that lasts · Anyone who loves a fresh, fun approach to health and fitness 🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode. Comment below with your fitness struggles or victories—our hosts want to hear from you! Coming up next: Episode 3 dives into how to grow your vertical jump—so stay tuned for more fairy-tale-inspired fitness wisdom! Episode References: DiStefano, L. J., et al. (2009). The effects of a movement-based exercise program on movement competency and injury risk in high school athletes. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 18(4), 481–499. Gabriel, D. A., et al. (2006). Neuromuscular adaptation to strength training: a meta-analysis. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 96(3), 273–288. Gavin, H. G., et al. (2014). Predicting physical activity burnout: The role of exercise dependence, perfectionism, and self-efficacy. Journal of Sports Sciences, 32(12), 1162–1170. Haff, G. G. (2016). Periodization of training in sports. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 48(8), 1632–1640. If you like what you just consumed, leave us a 5-star review, and share this episode with a friend to help grow our NASM health and wellness community! The content shared in this podcast is solely for educational and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek out the guidance of your healthcare provider or other qualified professional. Any opinions expressed by guests and hosts are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of NASM. Introducing NASM One, the membership for trainers and coaches. For just $35/mo., get unlimited access to over 300 continuing education courses, 50% off additional certifications and specializations, EDGE Trainer Pro all-in-one coaching app to grow your business, unlimited exam attempts and select waived fees. Stay on top of your game and ahead of the curve as a fitness professional with NASM One. Click here to learn more. https://bit.ly/4ddsgrm