What Most Trainers Get Wrong About the Thigh Muscles
Tue Feb 03 2026
Welcome to another episode of the "NASM CPT Podcast," hosted by Sharecare Emmy Award winner Rick Richey!
In this in-depth anatomy special, Rick dives into everything you need to know about the quadriceps muscles—the powerhouse of your legs. Whether you're a personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss.
Episode Highlights:
· Detailed breakdown of all four quadriceps muscles: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius
· Origins, insertions, and joint actions explained in plain English
· Discoveries about a potential fifth quadriceps muscle and what it means for anatomy geeks
· Pro tips on stretching and training the quads for maximum performance and safety
· Practical cues for your clients: how to identify quad activation and stretch effectiveness
· Essential anatomy reminders for the NASM CES course and beyondRick also answers listener questions—shoutout to Jill W.!—and shares clinical pearls for trainers looking to level up their corrective exercise and anatomy knowledge.
Plus, learn how recent research could change the way you think about the thigh muscles forever!
Why Watch?
· Clear, engaging explanations for professionals and students
· Actionable fitness tips to apply right away with clients
· Anatomy trivia gold for your next class or quiz night
· Exclusive podcast perks and offers from NASM for members
#NASM #PersonalTraining #Quadriceps #ExerciseScience #FitnessPodcast #Anatomy #CorrectiveExercise #RickRitchie #NASMCPT #FitnessEducation #QuadricepsMuscles #NewMuscleDiscovery #Stretching #LegDay #LegAnatomy #TrainerTips #Podcast
Show References:
Franchi, T. (2020) 'Tensor vastus intermedius: a review of its discovery, morphology and clinical importance', Folia Morphologica, (Preprint).
Grob, K., Ackland, T., Kuster, M. S., Manestar, M. and Filgueira, L. (2016) 'A newly discovered muscle: The tensor of the vastus intermedius', Clin Anat, 29(2), pp. 256-63
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
More
Welcome to another episode of the "NASM CPT Podcast," hosted by Sharecare Emmy Award winner Rick Richey! In this in-depth anatomy special, Rick dives into everything you need to know about the quadriceps muscles—the powerhouse of your legs. Whether you're a personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss. Episode Highlights: · Detailed breakdown of all four quadriceps muscles: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius · Origins, insertions, and joint actions explained in plain English · Discoveries about a potential fifth quadriceps muscle and what it means for anatomy geeks · Pro tips on stretching and training the quads for maximum performance and safety · Practical cues for your clients: how to identify quad activation and stretch effectiveness · Essential anatomy reminders for the NASM CES course and beyondRick also answers listener questions—shoutout to Jill W.!—and shares clinical pearls for trainers looking to level up their corrective exercise and anatomy knowledge. Plus, learn how recent research could change the way you think about the thigh muscles forever! Why Watch? · Clear, engaging explanations for professionals and students · Actionable fitness tips to apply right away with clients · Anatomy trivia gold for your next class or quiz night · Exclusive podcast perks and offers from NASM for members #NASM #PersonalTraining #Quadriceps #ExerciseScience #FitnessPodcast #Anatomy #CorrectiveExercise #RickRitchie #NASMCPT #FitnessEducation #QuadricepsMuscles #NewMuscleDiscovery #Stretching #LegDay #LegAnatomy #TrainerTips #Podcast Show References: Franchi, T. (2020) 'Tensor vastus intermedius: a review of its discovery, morphology and clinical importance', Folia Morphologica, (Preprint). Grob, K., Ackland, T., Kuster, M. S., Manestar, M. and Filgueira, L. (2016) 'A newly discovered muscle: The tensor of the vastus intermedius', Clin Anat, 29(2), pp. 256-63 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