RTS COURSES
RTS Mastery (RTSM)
The RTS Mastery level is not named for a final level of achievement. It is based upon the classic principles of mastery: the discipline for exploring and examining the depth of information, the wisdom in developing a thought process rather than relying on protocols, the surrender of biases and emotional attachments to be replaced by objectivity, and the unconditional love for the process of life-long learning.
RTSM encompasses 16 days divided into four modules that can be taken over any time period from four months to several years:
- RTSM Science - 3.5 days in Oklahoma City at RTS Headquarters (prerequisite = 1st)
- RTSM Spine/Trunk - 3.5 days in Oklahoma City at RTS Headquarters (recommended 2nd)
- RTSM Lower Extremity - 3.5 days in Oklahoma City at RTS Headquarters
- RTSM Upper Extremity - 3.5 days in Oklahoma City at RTS Headquarters
For those who are interested in testing for RTSM and earning the right to place these four letters behind their names, several other courses are required before presenting for the oral examination:
- Force and the Nervous System: The Neurophysiological Effects of Force Application - 2 days in Los Angeles
- Cadaver Anatomy - 1 to 1.5 days in Pittsburgh or Connecticut
- Muscle Activation Techniques' "Jump Start" Classes - Three 2 day courses available only through MAT. (Not required for those who have completed the MAT internship, but still recommended.)
- RTSM Science must be taken a second time after completion of the three body/application modules
rtsm details 
The RTSM course is not only the most advanced level in the Resistance Training Specialist Program, but RTSM is also the most advanced program of its kind anywhere. For those who enter RTSM with the goal of ultimately sitting for the exam and earning the right to place the Resistance Training Specialist® Programs' highest distinction, "RTSM", behind your name, the objective of the Mastery level is to develop teachers in the industry or "trainers to the trainers®". Thus, this should be your mind-set and primary perspective as you enter the science module and proceed through the application modules...to know the information well enough to present it clearly, concisely, and at the level required of the student (teaching requires progression just like exercise).
RTSM is all about reinforcing what we think we know, and then moving forward and beyond by improving one's perspective and working knowledge, not just memorizing more little facts in an attempt at sounding "supremely knowledgeable".
In order to benefit fully from the Mastery level program, it is important that RTSM not be the first time one has studied anatomy, physiology, etc. It is also important that the student is versed in the broad spectrum of "traditional" strength and aerobic exercise concepts as well as current industry trends in order to have a baseline perspective of the industry and a starting point for advanced communication.
RTSM explores the following, both in general and specific to each region of the body:
- The principles of biomechanics (study motion and forces and their effects on living systems)
- The principles of exercise mechanics (such as advanced closed chain research, and calculating joint forces)
- Principles of equipment mechanics (analysis, design and adaptation)
- Anatomy from a 3-D structure/function perspective (not just names)
- Common anatomical idiosyncrasies and variations
- Basic orthopedic assessment for joint health and integrity
- Neuromuscular and functional assessment via the MAT program
- Movement patterns including functional integration and functional isolation
- Flexibility via "resetting" techniques
- Force application options and their effects via the tolerances of the associated structures
- Risk-benefit analysis
- Resisted range of motion
- Principles of Strategic Variation
Topics of discussion also include:
- Post rehab specifics
- Injury prevention
Schedules for specific dates can be subject to change. Confirm daily schedules for specific course dates before making flight arrangements
