Game-ifying Group Training

Night after night, Cirque du Soleil’s performing arts athletes defy gravity and expectations — executing elite-level feats across 480 shows annually. Maintaining peak performance requires more than talent; it demands strategic preparation, adaptability, and trust. Channeling backgrounds in dance and martial arts, married coaching duo Mike and Jade Esmeralda bring a philosophy of continuous improvement to Cirque’s collectivistic infrastructure. Preparing performers with diverse training experiences, they connect on an artistic level to balance readiness with creative expression. From applying RAMP (Raise, Activate, Mobilize, Potentiate) warm-ups for mitigating injury risk to tactical load carriage insights for LED costumes, the Esmeraldas leverage parallels across high-performance environments. Strategies for Cirque’s “valuable human artistic assets” must enhance durability, manage load, and support longevity in an unpredictable, physically — and psychologically — demanding profession. Jade’s evidence-based journalism also combats social media misinformation. Discover how they adapt daily, build buy-in across cultures, and redefine training for a one-of-a-kind population. Connect with Mike Instagram: @m.b.esmeralda, and LinkedIn: @michaelesmeralda, and Jade on Instagram: @jadesmeralda_ | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs and LinkedIn: @ericmcmahoncscs Discover more stage-specific strategies in the NSCA Performing Arts Special Interest Group on LinkedIn. See some of these impressive feats mentioned in this episode performed by Cirque du Soleil athletes on Instagram at @cirquedusoleil and @cirquedusoleilcasting.

PT 2022

From Nothing to Nike — Climbing the Ladder in the Fitness Training Industry

Programming for Training the High School Multi-Sport Athlete

Programming for Training the High School Multi-Sport Athlete

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Matt Berenc, Director of Education for Equinox, discusses key points to consider when adding kettlebells into a personal training program

In this session from the NSCA’s 2017 Coaches Conference, Tara De Leon presents common issues that female athletes face and provides solutions for how to optimize training in females. CEUs available.

Join Loren Landow as he talks about barefoot training during the NSCA's 2014 National Conference. Drawing on his personal experience with fascial injury, Landow demonstrates mobility and activation exercises designed to help build ankle and foot strength.