NASM’s Scientific Advisory Board: Leading Experts Guide Future of Fitness and Wellness

Gilbert, AZ / Jun 18, 2025 / National Academy of Sports Medicine

The National Academy of Sports Medicine® (NASM), the global leader in fitness and wellness education, training, and certifications, is thrilled to announce its current Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), comprised of leading researchers, academics, and practitioners dedicated to guiding the evolution of the fitness and wellness sector. Established in 2020, the SAB plays a pivotal role in shaping NASM’s educational content, advising on industry trends, and defining best practices, ensuring NASM remains at the forefront of the industry.

This board’s mission is achieved through a dedicated approach, including advising on the current state of the industry, shaping present and future educational content, acting as key ambassadors for NASM within the fitness and wellness community, and actively contributing to NASM’s knowledge base.

NASM is honored to have the following experts contribute to its Scientific Advisory Board:

Dr. Scott Cheatham, PT, PhD, DPT, ATC, CSCS (Chairman of SAB)

  • Professor/Associate Chair – Cal State University- Dominguez Hills
  • Co-editor in Chief for Journal of Fitness, Wellness, and Human Performance (JFWHP)

Dr. Guillermo Escalante, DSc, MBA, ATC, CSCS, FISSN

  • Assistant Dean – Cal State University – San Bernardino
  • Co-editor in Chief for JFWHP

Dr. Edwin Davila, DO, MS, CISSN, ACSM-CEP / EIM

  • Resident Physician -Internal Medicine
  • Obesity and nutrition expert

Dr. Brad Dieter, PhD, MS

  • Nutrition and diabetes expert and researcher
  • Co-owner of Macros Inc

Dr. Antoinette Schoenthaler, EdD, FAACH

  • Behavioral scientist
  • Associate Director of Research, Institute for Excellence in Health Equity (NYU)

Dr. Allison Brager, PhD

  • Chief Science Officer – U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School
  • Neuroscientist, sleep expert

Dr. Cherilyn McLester, PhD

  • Professor of Exercise Science – Kennesaw State University
  • Sport psychology and exercise physiology expert

Mr. Mike Elliot, MS, ATC, PES, CES

  • Senior Director of High Performance at the Banner Sports Medicine
  • Former athletic trainer and strength coach for Utah Jazz and Phoenix Suns

The fitness and wellness landscape is rapidly transforming, driven by advancements in technology, a growing emphasis on holistic well-being, and the need for more personalized solutions. To navigate this dynamic environment and continue leading the industry, NASM relies on its Scientific Advisory Board members’ expertise to serve as strategic advisors and active contributors.

“The expertise and diverse backgrounds of our Scientific Advisory Board members are essential as NASM continues to push the boundaries of fitness and wellness education,” said Mike Fantigrassi, Head of Product at NASM. “Their insights, ambassadorship, and direct contributions ensure that our programs remain at the forefront of the industry, providing professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed and make a positive impact on their clients’ lives.”

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About National Academy of Sports Medicine

The National Academy of Sports Medicine® (NASM) is a global leader in evidence-based learning and certifications for fitness and wellness professionals. Building on over 35 years of expertise, NASM programs create a roadmap for fitness and wellness professionals to help their clients achieve better physical and mental performance in athletics and everyday life. NASM provides an industry-first training system, with the Optimum Performance Training (OPT™) model, creating robust courses and content based solely on science-backed research. Learn more at www.nasm.org.

Press Contacts
FINN Partners
Nasm@finnpartners.com
Tyler McDonald
tyler.mcdonald@nasm.org
NASM
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