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Vivian Griggs

Vivian Griggs

Article Archive

The Bender Ball: Crunch-less Core

July 31, 2025

Leslee Bender has worked in the fitness industry for over four decades and has been a pioneer in creative, functional training since the early years of her career. In 2000, while teaching in Germany, she discovered a small ball that would ultimately revolutionize the way core training is approached. Introducing it to the traditionally classical…

Feeding Your Second Brain

July 31, 2025

Your digestive tract is home to trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and other microbes collectively known as the gut microbiome. These microbes don’t just help you digest food—they influence nearly every system in your body, from immunity and hormone regulation to brain function and mood. In recent years, research has confirmed what many traditional…

Powering Up with a Plant-Based Protein Diet

July 31, 2025

Understanding Plant-Based Protein For decades, protein has been associated with animal sources like meat, eggs and dairy. But as more people shift toward vegetarian, vegan or flexitarian diets, plant-based protein is gaining well-earned recognition for its ability to support muscle health, metabolic function and overall well-being. Whether you’re cutting back on animal products or going…

The Power of a Fiber-Rich Diet

July 31, 2025

Why Fiber Matters More Than You Think Fiber is one of the most essential and under-consumed nutrients in the modern diet. Found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, fiber plays a critical role in digestive health, heart health, blood sugar balance, and even weight management. Yet, according to the U.S. Department of…

What You Need to Know About GLP-1 Medications, Muscle Loss, and Exercise

July 31, 2025

If you’re using a medication like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, or Mounjaro® to help with weight loss, you’re not alone. These GLP-1 medications have become a popular tool for people trying to improve their health and manage their weight—often with dramatic results. But here’s something you might not have heard: while these medications help reduce appetite and…

GLP-1 Medications and Your Clients

July 30, 2025

With the rise of medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro®, GLP-1 receptor agonists have become a popular—and often highly effective—tool for weight loss. But with fast body composition changes come new questions about muscle maintenance, exercise performance, and safe, sustainable fitness routines. As a fitness professional, it’s essential to understand how these medications work, what…

Member Spotlight: Darlene Miller

July 30, 2025

With 23 years of experience in the fitness industry, Darlene Miller has been a dedicated member of IDEA® for two decades, drawn to the organization’s commitment to supporting and advancing the marketing efforts of personal fitness trainers. She credits IDEA’s monthly newsletters for providing valuable insights that help her stay current with industry trends and…

Year-Long Career Success Workshop

January 6, 2025

2025 is YOUR year! IDEA is excited to bring you a year-long workshop centered on how to grow your business, whether you are employed by a club, own your own business or are contemplating a franchise. Being a fitness professional is more than a degree or certification. Being successful in this wonderful industry requires continued…

Research to Results: Turning Cutting-Edge Research into Real-World Outcomes

December 9, 2024

Join us March 6-9, 2025 in Denver, Colorado, uniting cutting-edge research and practical health and fitness solutions. Experience workshops, world-class speakers, and earn up to 20 CECs. Whether you’re advancing your career or starting fresh, this summit is your opportunity to gain skills and knowledge from industry leaders.

The Gifts of Fitness: A Journey of Shared Wellness for Experienced Health and Exercise Professionals

December 9, 2024

Working as a health and fitness professional is more than just a career; it’s a calling that requires passion, dedication, and a deep connection with the people we serve. The relationships we build with our clients are the lifeblood of our practice, and over time, they become more than just clients—they become friends, confidants, and…

Focus on Education

September 17, 2024

There’s no debating the importance of continual learning and staying abreast on recent health and fitness research. Additionally, nationally accredited fitness certifications require continuing education in order to renew certifications. IDEA’s educational database provides the courses needed to meet renewal requirements as well as specialized courses to further your career. Two popular courses, detailing the…

Personal Training Institute Virtual

September 16, 2024

Get ready to elevate your skills at IDEA® Personal Trainer Institute Virtual where learning meets real-time excitement! Join us for an interactive experience like no other. Engage directly with industry-leading experts in live Q&A sessions, connect with fellow fitness professionals, and be part of a vibrant community that will inspire and motivate you—all while earning…