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The Far Side of Fitness

The Far Side of Fitness

By: Dr. Darian Parker PhD NSCA-CPT
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About this listen

 Welcome to The Far Side of Fitness, where we dive into the wild, weird, and alternative sides of fitness! We go beyond the reps and sets to explore the other sides of topics in fitness that you won't hear anywhere else. Press play and tune in for fun, laughs, and eye-opening takes that’ll change the way you think about health and fitness!Dr. Darian Parker, PhD, NSCA-CPT Exercise & Fitness Fitness, Diet & Nutrition Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • 40. Coaching Autistic Clients w/ Eric Chessen

    40. Coaching Autistic Clients w/ Eric Chessen
    Sep 15 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Darian Parker and Eric Chessen discuss the importance of fitness professionals understanding and working with clients on the autism spectrum. They explore the unique challenges faced by individuals with autism, the significance of empathetic communication, and the development of effective fitness protocols tailored to this population.


    Eric's Links:


    Website: https://www.autismfitness.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismfitness/?hl=en

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/TheAutismFitness


    Learn More about Dr. Darian:

    Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/


    Dr. Darian's Affiliates:


    Relax the Back

    Relax The Back® embraces a holistic approach for a healthier lifestyle grounded in 40 years of proven expertise. Live wellness is our commitment to helping you transform your routine, your space, and your life, with solutions that elevate your physical and mental well-being. Use this link: Relax the Back level up your well being.


    Blumaka

    Run better. Move smarter. Save 20%.
    Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20


    Stick Mobility

    Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.


    Hyperice

    Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
    From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.


    Riverside

    I use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnx



    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Autism Fitness

    02:47 Eric's Journey into Fitness and Autism

    05:59 Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

    09:03 Common Challenges in Autism and Fitness

    11:52 The Importance of Communication in Training

    15:02 The Concept of Masking in Autism

    17:57 Developing Effective Protocols for Training

    21:06 The PAC Profile Methodology

    24:10 Motivation and Engagement in Autism Fitness

    26:27 Connecting Through Shared Interests

    28:56 The Importance of Communication in Coaching

    32:05 The Art of Coaching: Less is More

    36:04 Understanding Individual Needs in Training

    39:58 Contextualizing Fitness for Different Ages

    42:56 Final Thoughts on Working with Diverse Populations
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Ep. 2 Trainer Talk Series - Career Vs. Part Fitness Professionals

    Ep. 2 Trainer Talk Series - Career Vs. Part Fitness Professionals
    Aug 27 2025
    In this episode of Trainer Talk, Dr. Darian Parker, along with co-hosts Julia Suozzi and Caroline Turnbull, engage in a rich discussion with personal trainers Maria Pearson and Robert Bricks Glover. They explore the differences between part-time and full-time trainers, the importance of longevity in fitness training, and the impact trainers have on their clients' lives. The conversation also delves into the challenges of burnout in the fitness industry, the stigma surrounding part-time trainers, and the significance of self-awareness in client relationships.Caroline and Julia's Links:IG: MobiusMobius Calendar: https://lu.ma/mobiusJoin the Mobius Waitlist: Mobius WaitlistLearn More about Dr. Darian:Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/Dr. Darian's Affiliates:Relax the BackRelax The Back® embraces a holistic approach for a healthier lifestyle grounded in 40 years of proven expertise. Live wellness is our commitment to helping you transform your routine, your space, and your life, with solutions that elevate your physical and mental well-being. Use this link: Relax the Back level up your well being.BlumakaRun better. Move smarter. Save 20%.Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20Stick MobilityGet your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.HypericeGrab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfWFrom percussion to compression, elevate your recovery like a pro.Discount applies at checkout.RiversideI use Riverside to record my podcast in studio-quality audio and video—right from my browser or phone. Whether you're remote or in-person, it's the easiest way to get crisp, professional results every time. Use my link to sign up for this awesome podcasting platform: https://riverside.sjv.io/QjEWnxChapters00:00 Introduction to the Fitness Industry Dynamics03:08 Personal Trainer Journeys: Part-Time vs Full-Time05:56 The Importance of Longevity in Training08:59 Measuring Impact: Part-Time vs Full-Time Training11:42 Burnout in the Fitness Profession14:48 The Stigma of Part-Time Trainers17:46 Finding Your Niche in Personal Training20:47 Self-Awareness and Client Relationships23:35 Balancing Client Load and Energy26:51 Reflection and Growth as Trainers30:48 Navigating Part-Time vs Full-Time Training34:12 The Future of Training: Balancing Passion and Business35:43 Understanding the Industry: Part-Time Trends40:09 Pricing Strategies in Personal Training42:39 The Value of Expertise vs Popularity
    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • 39. How Fitness Pros Can Support Clients with Irregular Work Shifts

    39. How Fitness Pros Can Support Clients with Irregular Work Shifts
    Aug 19 2025

    Lori Oliver, Co-Founder & CEO of The Inactive Company, a sleep performance brand dedicated to developing technology and tools that enhance rest and recovery for everyone. Its innovative sleep mask, Inactivators™, is a scientifically backed solution to improve sleep. She has spent over 25 years as a veteran in brand and product building, driving business for corporate, consulting, and entrepreneurial companies from global to grassroots.


    Jill MacRae is a marketing executive with over 25 years of experience in building businesses and brands across B2B, B2C, and non-profit sectors. She is the founder and principal of JMACRAE GROUP, a boutique consulting firm that advises and collaborates with companies to formulate and implement strategic initiatives for growth and sustainability. Additionally, she is a co-founder of The Inactive Company, a sleep performance brand dedicated to developing technology and tools that enhance rest and recovery for everyone. Its innovative sleep mask, Inactivators™, is a scientifically backed solution to improve sleep.


    Lori and Jill's Links:


    https://inactiveco.com/


    Learn More about Dr. Darian:

    Website: https://doctordarianparker.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darianparker/


    Dr. Darian's Affiliates:


    Relax the Back

    Relax The Back® embraces a holistic approach for a healthier lifestyle grounded in 40 years of proven expertise. Live wellness is our commitment to helping you transform your routine, your space, and your life, with solutions that elevate your physical and mental well-being. Use this link: Relax the Back level up your well being.


    Blumaka

    Run better. Move smarter. Save 20%.
    Blumaka insoles are built for performance and sustainability, offering elite-level cushioning, grip, and durability with up to 85% recycled foam. Use code FSF20 for 20% off: https://blumakastore.myshopify.com/discount/FSF20


    Stick Mobility

    Get your flexibility back and prevent injuries with Stick Mobility. Training Sticks improve range of motion, muscle activation, coordination, and body awareness to build a strong foundation for better movement. Go to this Link or copy to your browser https://stickmobility.com/darian-parker and use the discount code: 1CEC828F154 to get 10% off of your purchase.


    Hyperice

    Grab your Hyperice gear and get 10% off using my affiliate link: https://tidd.ly/4noSOfW
    From percussion to compression, elevate your recovery
    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
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