Frequently asked questions
Can this help my business?
Absolutely—expand your service offerings with a sought-after specialisation and marketing guidance.
Are course updates included?
All future updates are available to enrolled students at no additional charge.
How long does the course take?
The course provides 20 hours of content and can be completed at your own pace—most finish in 2–6 weeks.
Do I need experience training people with diabetes?
No previous diabetes client experience is required. The course is designed for fitness and coaching professionals committed to learning.
Will I be certified?
Yes, successful completion of the exam awards you the Type 2 Diabetes Fitness Specialist certificate.
What lessons are included?
Lesson Overview
Module 1: Introduction and PathophysiologyLesson 1: Rick’s Personal StoryLesson 2: PathophysiologyLesson 3: No JudgmentsLesson 4: Communication with the Clinical Team
Module 2: Energy SystemsLesson 5: Energy Systems
Module 3: Correlations and ContraindicationsLesson 6: Sedentary BehaviorsLesson 7: Workplace StressLesson 8: Sleep Issues and T2D, Part 1Lesson 9: Sleep Issues and T2D, Part 2Lesson 10: Cognition and AD
Module 4: Exercise ResearchLesson 11: Activity and InitiativesLesson 12: Physical Activity and Type 2 DiabetesLesson 13: WalkingLesson 14: Aerobic ExerciseLesson 15: HIIT AnaerobicLesson 16: Resistance TrainingLesson 17: Comparing ExerciseLesson 18: Combined ExercisesLesson 19: Specialty Modalities (e.g., yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi)
Module 5: Behavior ChangeLesson 20: Transtheoretical Model and Stages of ChangeLesson 21: Self-Determination TheoryLesson 22: Attribution TheoryLesson 23: Affective Reflective TheoryLesson 24: Small WinsLesson 25: Motivational Interviewing with Angie Miller
Module 6: Exercise Applications and ProgrammingLesson 26: Introduction to Exercise ApplicationsLesson 27: The Business SideLesson 28: Cardiovascular AssessmentsLesson 29: Planning and Programming
Module 7: NutritionLesson 30: Dietary ConsiderationsLesson 31: Interview: Brad Dieter
Who is the course author?
Rick Richey, DHSc, has been in the fitness industry since 2002 as a certified personal trainer, training manager, educator, orthopedic massage therapist, college and university adjunct professor, fitness industry presenter, as well as a subject matter expert and talent for fitness industry educational videos and written content.
He is the host of the NASM CPT Podcast / Webcast and formerly co-host of the Omnia Fitness Podcast with Rick and Drogo – powered by Everlast for two years. Rick is regularly used by media outlets for quotes and content regarding fitness and wellness. He has also written chapters in the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Essentials of Personal Training textbook and Corrective Exercise textbooks. He has fought competitively in the World Kickboxing and Karate Association (WKA) and has served as a course educator for the NASM MMA Conditioning Specialist and the Everlast FIT certifications. Rick was named the 2022 IDEA Fitness Personal Trainer of the Year.
