Exercises for Resistance Training: A Practical Guide to Technique, Cueing, and Coaching

Lauren R. Tapp, PhD, CSCS, EP-C, is a highly accomplished educator, researcher, and leader in the field of exercise science and human performance. With a doctorate in integrative exercise physiology from Temple University and over two decades of professional experience, she has built a career defined by academic innovation, student-centered teaching, and applied research in health, performance, and wellness.

Currently serving as department chair of exercise science and physical education at Georgia Gwinnett College, Tapp has guided program development, curriculum design, and faculty leadership. Since joining the college in 2011, she has progressed from assistant professor to professor and now department chair, while spearheading new courses in exercise science, strength and conditioning, and applied nutrition. Her teaching portfolio reflects a balance of foundational sciences and applied practice, preparing students for careers in health, fitness, and rehabilitation.

Tapp's academic career is built on a foundation of diverse experience as a practitioner. In her current teaching role at Georgia Gwinnett College, she brings her experience as an exercise physiologist and strength coach into the classroom. Her appointments in clinical hospital settings, collegiate strength and conditioning, and community health and fitness enable her to bridge the gap between classroom concepts and real-world application.

Her scholarship and professional contributions include coauthoring textbooks such as Exercise Physiology and Testing (2017), peer-reviewed research on resistance training and whole-body vibration, and multiple presentations at regional and national conferences. She has mentored over 30 undergraduate students and has also contributed as a grant team member for initiatives in inclusive STEM education and as an external reviewer for academic journals.

In addition to her PhD (Temple University), Tapp earned her undergraduate and Master's degree from Florida State University (Exercise Physiology/Nutrition). Her professional certifications include Certified Exercise Physiologist (American College of Sports Medicine), CISSN-Certified Sports Nutritionist, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (National Strength and Conditioning Association), and USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach, underscoring her expertise in bridging academic knowledge with applied performance training.

Joshua Wludyga, DSc, CSCS, *D, is an accomplished educator, researcher, and practitioner in exercise science, health promotion, and strength and conditioning. With more than two decades of experience spanning higher education, clinical practice, and athletic performance, he has built a career dedicated to advancing human health, wellness, and performance across diverse populations.

Currently an associate professor of exercise science at Georgia Gwinnett College, Wludyga teaches courses on anatomy and physiology, health behavior change, nutrition, and strength and conditioning, while mentoring undergraduate research projects that have been showcased at institutional symposiums. He has played a pivotal role in curriculum development, program assessment, and committee leadership, earning nominations for Outstanding Teaching and Faculty Service awards.

Wludyga's scholarly work includes peer-reviewed publications on resistance training and health outcomes as well as research exploring exercise knowledge and behavior among former athletes. His professional journey also includes leadership roles in corporate wellness, exercise physiology for oncology patients, and strength and conditioning coaching for athletes and special populations. As director of the National Personal Training Institute in Tempe, Arizona, he designed and delivered a comprehensive 500-hour curriculum that prepared future fitness professionals.

Recognized for excellence in teaching and student success, he received the Distinguished Faculty award from Bryan University and was named Outstanding Masters Scholar, Teacher, and Leader at Arizona State University. He holds the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist credential (with distinction) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and maintains active membership in both the NSCA and American College of Sports Medicine.