Here is the basic ACSM CPT exam info! The test contains a total of 135 questions you must answer within 150 minutes.
120 of these questions are scored, while 15 are non-scored ‘experimental’ questions.
You will not know which questions are scored and unscored, however, you only need to get a 70% passing score on the scored questions. Incorrect experimental questions will not count against you.
Exam questions fall into three categories:
Recall – basic facts, information, or steps in a process.
Applications – comprehend and implement processes, interpret simple results, or summarize information.
Synthesis – Differentiate, relate parts of a system, make judgements on new information based on given criteria.
All types of questions are weighted equally. However, they tend to increase in difficulty as you go from recall to application to synthesis questions.
ACSM Exam Questions
Domain Name
Percent of ACSM Exam
Number of Questions
Initial Client Consultation & Assessment
25%
30
Exercise Programming & Implementation
45%
54
Exercise Leadership & Client Education
20%
24
Legal & Professional Responsibilities
10%
12
Each Domain contains questions from chapters across the textbook. As such, the chronological order of chapters in the textbook does not correspond to the order of the domains.
Domain I – Initial Client Consultation & Assessment
This section of the ACSM curriculum focuses on the initial client interview and screening process. It also includes the anatomy questions on the ACSM exam. Science is heavily emphasized in this section, which means you will learn information you could apply later to one of the exercise science careers in clinical research if you want to go that direction.
What are the risk factors for cardiovascular disease?
The following risk factors are used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease. Each positive risk factor counts as +1 on the scale.
• Men age 45 or older or women age 55 or older • Family history of heart attacks, coronary revascularization, or sudden cardiac death. First degree relatives only – this risk factor is met when one male relative younger than 55 has had a heart incident or one female relative younger than 65 • Client currently smokes cigarettes, quit smoking within the last 6 months, or is exposed to secondhand smoke on a regular basis • Client engages in less than 30 minutes of exercise 3 times per week for at least 3 months (“sedentary”) • Client has a BMI over 30 or waist circumference greater than 102cm for men and 88cm for women (obesity) • Resting blood pressure equal to or above 140/90, in either number or client is taking hypertensive medication (hypertension) • Client has an LDL cholesterol at 130mg/dL or above and an HDL of less than 40mg/dL (dyslipidemia) • Client is diabetic
Note that having HDL cholesterol above 60mg/dL counts as a negative risk factor, meaning you can subtract 1 from your total score.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 311.
What are the benefits of increasing cardiorespiratory fitness in untrained individuals?
• Improved VO2 max with maximal effort cardio • Lowered resting heart rate • Lowered exercise heart rate at submaximal intensity • Improved oxygen utilization • Ventilation decreased at submax effort, increased at max effort • Stroke volume decreased at submax effort, increased at max effort • Cardiac output decreased at submax effort, increased at max effort • Blood volume increased • Lowered systolic blood pressure • Blood lactate decreased at submax effort, increased at max effort • Oxidative capacity of skeletal muscle decreased at submax effort, increased at max effort • Decreased all cause mortality • Decreased coronary artery disease • Decreased cancer risk • Decreased osteoporosis risk • Decreased anxiety • Decreased depression
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 159.
List 5 fitness assessments you might perform with a new client. Include the client profile appropriate for a given assessment.
Circumference: Circumference of body areas is measured with a flexible measuring tape and used to determine baseline size, waste-to-hip, and other cardiovascular risk factors.
The biggest number to calculate is the waist-to-hip ratio, which allows the trainer to assess the risk of a specific disease. The circumference is appropriate for clients interested in health and weight loss.
1.5 Mile Run The 1.5-mile run is used for assessing cardiorespiratory fitness. It is appropriate for clients who can already jog for at least 15 continuous minutes. To obtain the best, most accurate score, clients should be instructed to pace themselves throughout the test.
The formula for cardiorespiratory fitness is: VO2max (mL/kg*min = 3.5 + 463/(1.5 mile time to completion)
Rockport 1-Mile Walk Test The Rockport 1-Mile Walk Test assesses cardiorespiratory fitness and is appropriate for clients who are deconditioned or otherwise unable to jog or run. The minimum fitness level for this test is the ability to maintain a BPM above 120 for 1-mile. Clients must walk for the test to be accurate, they cannot run. The test is less useful for very fit individuals.
The data required for the test is the total walking time to complete 1 mile, the client’s weight in kilograms, and the recovery heart rate, which is the pulse taken in the minute after completion of the mile walk.
Once the client has a 1-mile walk time, the formula for VO2max is as follows: VO2max (mL/kg*min)=132.853 – (0.1692 * bodymass in kg) – (0.3877 * AGE) + (6.315 only for men) – (3.2649 * walk time) – (0.1565 * recovery heart rate)
1-Repetition Maximum 1-repetition maximums test a client’s maximal ability to lift a heavyweight. Before testing 1RM, the client should be experienced with the exercise being tested and have already demonstrated proper, safe execution of the technique.
1RM tests can be performed on most resistance exercises but are typically used on lifts such as the barbell back squat, deadlift, bench press, overhead press, and power cleans.
Clients should perform roughly 3 warm-up sets and then perform 3-5 1RM attempts with 3-5 minutes between attempts to obtain the highest weight lifted while maintaining form.
Push-up test The push-up test measures the muscular endurance of the chest, shoulders, and triceps. The push-up test is appropriate for most otherwise healthy individuals who can perform at least one push-up. Women perform the pushup test on their knees while men will perform standard push-ups.
sit-and-reachtest The sit and reach test measures the combined flexibility of the hamstrings and rear back muscles.
Clients should perform a warm-up and flexibility routine before performing this test for optimal results. The score is the furthest point out of two attempts that a client can reach forward on a box while seated with legs extended.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 342-350.
What are SMART goals?
SMART goals are a framework for goal setting that helps ensure client success.
SMART is an acronym that stands for: • Specific • Measurable • Attainable • Realistic • Timely
In essence, for a goal to be “SMART,” it must meet the above criteria. Goals that fail to meet the above criteria ultimately set the client up for failure given the likelihood of not reaching said goals.
For example, a SMART goal would be “lose 10 pounds in 3 months” – this goal is specific, measurable, can be attained by clients under most circumstances, is a realistic amount of weight to lose in that timeframe, and it has a set deadline.
Compare this to a non-SMART goal such as “burn fat as quickly as possible,” which is non-specific and meets essentially none of the SMART criteria. SMART goals set clients up for success in the short, medium, and long terms.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 222.
(SMART goals are also a good framework for you as a trainer when building your business. If you want to be making money as a personal trainer, and continue to earn more, pick a SMART goal. For instance, if you want to become an online personal trainer, and make money that way, pick a time frame, a method for interacting with clients, and a way to measure your progress toward that goal.)
What are the types of support? Give a few examples for each.
Types of support are the methods that trainers, coaches, and individuals in the client’s life can assist with in terms of helping the client stay active and adherent to the program.
The types of support are as follows:
· Emotional support o Spouse taking a walk with the client o Friends encouraging them to stick with it o Group fitness instructor encouraging attendance o Workout partners
· Tangible support o Spouse cooks dinner while client exercises o Family member offers to babysit o Friend offers to pick up dry cleaning or groceries
· Informational support o Health newsletters or emails about incorporating exercise into lifestyle o Handouts from a personal trainer on new exercise routines. o Magazine subscriptions providing clients with monthly information on exercise Informational posters or bulletins
· Appraisal support o Spouse praises client on progress made o Coworkers give feedback on changes in clients o Trainer provides positive reinforcement and individualized feedback
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 242-243.
What is the structure and function of the skeletal system and its components? Include a list of the major bones?
The skeleton is a system of bony levers that allow muscle force to be used for a variety of motions in human activity. It includes cartilages, bone tissue, and periosteum tissue covering the bones.
Bones also support soft tissue, protect internal organs, and act as important sources of nutrients and blood constituents and serve as rigid levers for movement.
The body has roughly 206 bones, although the exact number varies. The skeleton is a light, strong structure that provides leverage, support, and protection.
The skeleton is divided into the axial skeleton and the appendicular skeleton.
Appendicular Skeleton • Shoulder/Pectoral Girdle (Left And Right Scapula And Clavicle) • Arms (Left/Right Humerus, Radius, Ulna) • Wrists And Hands (Carpals, Metacarpals, And Phalanges) • Pelvic Girdle • Legs and Ankles (Left/Right Femur, Patella, Tibia, Fibula) • Feet (Tarsals, Metatarsals, And Phalanges)
Vertebral Column (part of axial skeleton) • Vertebral bones separated by flexible discs • Allows some movement to occur. • Seven cervical vertebrae in the neck (C1-C7), • Twelve thoracic vertebrae in the middle and upper back (T1-T12) • Five lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) • Five sacral vertebrae – fused together and make up the rear of the pelvis.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 50-51.
What are the different types of joints and their structures? Give examples of the different joint types.
The junctions of bones in the skeleton are called joints and include fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial joints.
The articulating ends of bones are covered with smooth hyaline cartilage, and the entire joint is enclosed in a capsule filled with synovial fluid. Additional supporting structures include ligaments and cartilage.
Fibrous Joints • allow virtually no movement • example – sutures of the skull
Cartilaginous Joints • allow limited movement • example – intervertebral discs
Synovial joints • allow considerable movement • example – elbow and knee • low friction • large range of motion • most movements occur about the synovial joints
Articulating joints are categorized based on how many planes of motion they operate in.
Uniaxial joints • One axis of rotation • Example – knee, elbow
Biaxial Joints • Two perpendicular axes of rotation • Example – wrist, ankle
Multiaxial joints • Allow movement in all three axes that define space. • Example – hip and shoulder joints
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. 48-60.
What is the structure and breakdown of skeletal muscle?
Skeletal muscles are organs that contain muscle tissue, connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels.
Tendons attach the muscles at multiple points to the bone periosteum, a specialized connective tissue that covers all bones.
Fibrous connective tissue called epimysium covers every muscle in the human body and is contiguous with the tendons at the end of each muscle.
Individual muscle cells, called muscle fibers, are long cylindrical cells. The fibers are grouped into bundles known as fasciculi.
Each fascicle bundle is wrapped in a connective tissue layer called perimysium.
Within the fasciculi, individual fibers are surrounded by connective tissue called endomysium, which is contiguous with the muscle fiber’s membrane, or sarcolemma.
Macrostructure of Muscle Connective Tissue Layers • Tendon – attaches to bone periosteum • Epimysium – outer connective tissue layer surrounding the muscle • Perimysium – middle connective tissue surrounding fasciculi • Endomysium – inner connective tissue that surrounds each muscle fiber • Sarcolemma – muscle fiber membrane contiguous with endomysium
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 149-150.
What is the basic anatomy of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems? Describe each major component.
The cardiorespiratory system consists of the: • heart • blood vessels • lungs • air passages
The heart is a muscular organ that consists of two separate but interconnected pumps. The right side of the heart pumps blood through the lungs for oxygenation, and the left side of the heart pumps the oxygenated blood throughout the body.
The heart consists of the following chambers: • Right atrium – receives non-oxygenated blood from the body • Right ventricle – pumps blood through the pulmonary circulation • Left atrium – receives oxygenated blood from the pulmonary circulation • Left ventricle – pumps oxygenated blood through the body
The heart contains a system of valves that passively ensure proper blood flow direction: • Tricuspid valve and mitral valve (Atrioventricular valves) – prevent backflow of blood from ventricles into atria during contraction (Systole) • Aortic and pulmonary valves (Semilunar valves) – together prevent blood flow from the aorta and pulmonary arteries during ventricular relaxation (Diastole)
A system of bundles and nodes controls the contraction of the heart: • Sinoatrial node – Pacemaker of the heart, source of the rhythmic electrical impulses • Atrioventricular node – Delays impulse from the SA node to allow blood into the ventricles • Atrioventricular bundle – Conducts impulse to ventricles via the left and right bundle branches – further branching into Purkinje fibers. AV bundle transmits signals nearly simultaneously to the left and right ventricles
Once blood leaves the heart, it enters the blood vessel system:
The arterial system transports blood throughout the body through the following structures:
• Arteries – large tubes that rapidly transport blood from the heart • Arterioles – small tubes that branch off the arteries and control the blood before entering the capillaries • Capillaries – smallest tubes that facilitate the exchange of O2, CO2, and nutrients between blood and tissues
The venous system returns blood to the heart through the following structures: • Venules – collect blood from capillaries and transport it to veins • Veins – larger tubes that return blood to the heart
Arteries have stiff walls to contain the high pressure of blood from the heart. Veins have thinner, dilatable walls that constrict or expand depending on the current needs of the body The respiratory system re-oxygenates the blood returning to the heart from the body.
The respiratory system consists of a series of passages that ultimately bring oxygen into the body and return carbon dioxide: • Nasal cavities – warm, purify, and humidify air entering the body • Trachea – first-generation respiratory passage • Right and left bronchi – second-generation passages that split from the trachea towards the right and left lungs • Bronchioles – additional 23 generations of passageways that deliver air to the alveoli • Alveoli – location in lunges where gas exchange (diffusion) occurs nearly instantaneously
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 135-145.
List the planes of motion. Give an example exercise that occurs in each plane.
The three planes of motion are: • Sagittal o Splits body into left and right halves o Example exercise – squats, deadlifts • Frontal o Splits body into front and back halves o Example exercise – ice skaters, band walks • Transverse o Splits body into the upper and lower half o Example exercise – cable rotation, Russian twist
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 46.
Define the following terms: anterior, posterior, superficial, deep, proximal, distal, inferior, superior, medial, lateral, supination, pronation, flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, rotation, agonist, antagonist, and stabilizer.
Anterior – front of the body, ventral Posterior – back of the body, dorsal Superficial – located close to the body surface Deep – below the surface Proximal – closer to any reference point Distal – further from any reference point Superior – toward the head Inferior – away from the head Medial – toward the midline of the body Lateral – away from the midline of the body Supination – combined movements of adduction and external rotation Pronation – combined movements of abduction and internal rotation Flexion – movement resulting in the decrease of the joint angle usually in the sagittal plane Extension – movement resulting in the increase of a joint angle usually in the sagittal plane Adduction – Movement toward the midline of the body usually in the frontal plane Abduction – Movement away from the midline of the body usually in the frontal plane Rotation – Right or left rotation in the transverse plane Agonist – primary muscle responsible for a given movement Antagonist – muscle responsible for the opposite action of a given movement Stabilizer – muscle that assists the prime mover to stabilize the joint against unwanted movement
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 47.
List the locations for an anthropometric pulse and skinfold measurements.
Pulse – The pulse can be detected via manual palpation at three sites: Radial – located on the anterior surface of the wrist Brachial – located in the groove between the triceps and biceps Carotid – medial border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle in the lower neck region Skinfold – Skinfold measurements use calipers to assess the amount of subcutaneous body fat and estimate total body fat percentages based on a standardized formula. The ACSM skinfold measurement sites are as follows: Abdominal – vertical fold 2cm to the right of the umbilicus. Triceps – vertical fold, on posterior midline of the upper arm, halfway between the acromion and olecranon processes, with the arm held freely to the side of the body. Biceps – vertical fold on the anterior aspect of the arm over the belly of the biceps muscle, 1cm above triceps measurement location. Chest/pectoral – diagonal fold, one-half the distance between the axillary line and the nipple for men, or one-third the distance between the anterior axillary line and nipple in women. Medial calf – vertical fold at the maximum circumference of the calf in the midline of its medial border. Midaxillary – vertical fold on the midaxillary line at the level of the xiphoid process of the sternum. Subscapular – diagonal fold 1-2cm below the inferior angle of the scapula. Suprailiac – diagonal fold in line with the natural angle of the iliac crest takin in the anterior axillary line immediately superior to the iliac crest Thigh – vertical fold on the anterior midline of the thigh, midway between the proximal border of the patella and the inguinal crease. Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 320-329
Domain II – Exercise Programming & Implementation
Domain II is the biggest section on the exam and contains the majority of practical personal training information in the ACSM curriculum. Topics include exercise techniques and programming guidelines. In comparison to the NASM CPT certification or the ISSA CPT, the ACSM certification is stylistically a bit less practical and more theoretical in terms of the content covered.
What are the considerations for pregnant clients?
• Must pay more attention to hydration and clothing to dissipate heat due to reduced thermoregulation, avoid hot/humid exercise conditions • Not the time to expect major fitness improvements • Aerobic exercise at 12-13 RPE, for 150 total minutes weekly • Avoid supine exercises after the first trimester • Focus on controlled exercise to maintain ROM
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 563
What are the considerations for clients with CVD?
CVD:
• Start at low intensity • Target heart rate 10-15 bpm below the level that elicits abnormal symptoms • Beta blockers and similar drugs decrease the accuracy of intensity prescription • RPE levels of 11-13 are typically in the correct zone for CVD • Perform 8-10 exercises using major groups • Begin with 10-15 reps at light resistance for a single set initially • Perform resistance training 2-3 non-consecutive days per week • Increase intensity slowly
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 560.
What are the considerations for clients with hypertension?
Hypertension · Daily or frequent aerobic exercise totaling more than 150 minutes per week · 40-59% HRR or 12-13 RPE for aerobic intensity · Resistance training kept at 60-80% 1RM and is secondary to cardio · Ensure cooldown is performed Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 574.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 342-350.
What are the considerations for clients with diabetes?
Diabetes · 3-7 days per week of aerobic activity, total 150 minutes per week · 40-59% HRR or RPE 11-13 · Aim for maximum caloric expenditure · Circuit training with light weights is very effective for managing blood sugar · Be alert for hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia warnings · Eat 1-2 hours before exercise · Have fruit juice or candy available in case of blood sugar drop
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 566
What are the considerations for clients with obesity?
Obesity • 150 minutes or more of vigorous aerobic activity to maximize calorie expenditure • Resistance training aimed at improving lean body mass should always be secondary to aerobic exercise • Carefully monitor for hydration/environmental concerns during exercise • Non-weight bearing activity can reduce orthopedic issues
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 570.
List and describe the six motor skill-related physical fitness components.
1. Agility – the ability to move rapidly while changing direction in response to stimulus 2. Balance – The maintenance of equilibrium while stationary or moving 3. Coordination – The ability to use the senses together with body parts in performing tasks smoothly and accurately 4. Reaction time – The time elapsed between stimulation and the beginning of the response 5. Speed – The ability to perform a movement within a short amount of time 6. Power – The rate at which one can perform work
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 371.
Define and describe the FITT-VP Principle.
The FITT-VP Principle is an acronym that guides effective exercise programming by giving you each consideration to take into account when designing your clients’ programs.
Frequency
Frequency refers to the number of training sessions in a given time period, typically one week.
Intensity
Intensity refers to heart rate reserve percents, %1RM, or other exercise-specific relevant metrics for measuring the relative difficulty of a given exercise.
Time
Time refers to the total amount of time in a given training session or a given work set. For cardiorespiratory fitness, time is usually discussed in terms of keeping the heart rate at a certain level for a period of time.
Type
Type refers to the modality of exercise such as treadmills, cycling, barbell training, or swimming, etc.
Volume
Volume is the total amount of work performed, typically in a given session. It is typically expressed as the amount of weight lifted multiplied by the total repetitions at that weight.
Progression
Progression is the method used to make exercises more challenging. Progression can be accomplished by manipulating most of the FITT-VP components to increase the difficulty of an exercise. Progression can include increases in volume, intensity, time, or technical requirements for an exercise, among other considerations.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 436
Use the Heart Rate Reserve method to calculate the heart rate zone for 65-75% intensity for a 30-year old healthy male with a resting heart rate of 70 BPM.
Skeletal muscles are organs that contain muscle tissue, connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels.
Tendons attach the muscles at multiple points to the bone periosteum, a specialized connective tissue that covers all bones.
Fibrous connective tissue called epimysium covers every muscle in the human body and is contiguous with the tendons at the end of each muscle.
Individual muscle cells, called muscle fibers, are long cylindrical cells. The fibers are grouped into bundles known as fasciculi.
Each fascicle bundle is wrapped in a connective tissue layer called perimysium.
Within the fasciculi, individual fibers are surrounded by connective tissue called endomysium, which is contiguous with the muscle fiber’s membrane, or sarcolemma.
Macrostructure of Muscle Connective Tissue Layers
• Tendon – attaches to bone periosteum • Epimysium – outer connective tissue layer surrounding the muscle • Perimysium – middle connective tissue surrounding fasciculi • Endomysium – inner connective tissue that surrounds each muscle fiber • Sarcolemma – muscle fiber membrane contiguous with endomysium
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 149-150.
What are the acute program variables for resistance training?
The acute program variables are the specific programming guidelines for individual training sessions. 1. Choice of exercise 2. Order of exercises 3. Amount of resistance 4. Number of repetitions 5. Number of sets 6. Duration of rest periods between sets and exercises
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 389-395
What are the ACSM program variable recommendations for muscular strength in novice individuals?
Muscular Strength:
Volume: 1-3 sets per exercise Intensity: 60-80% 1RM Repetitions: 8-12 Rest period: 2-3 minutes between sets for core lifts, 1-2 minutes for assistance exercise Frequency: 2-3 days per week
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 393-394.
What are the ACSM program variable recommendations for muscular hypertrophy in novice individuals?
Muscular Hypertrophy
Volume: 1-3 sets per exercise Intensity: 30-60% 1RM upper body exercise, 0-60% 1RM for lower body Repetitions: 3-6 not to failure Rest period: 2-3 minutes if high intensity, 1-2 minutes for assistance/lower intensity Frequency: 2-3 days per week
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 393-394
Describe the proper technique for the barbell back squat.
1. Place a barbell on the back of shoulders and grasp at both sides with feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly out 2. Dismount the bar from the rack and descend until thighs are parallel to the floor 3. Ascend by extending the knees and hips until legs are straight 4. Keep head forward with chin level, back straight, and feet flat on the floor 5. Keep equal distribution of weight throughout the forefoot and heel and either squat within the power rack or have spotters
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 404
Domain III – Exercise Leadership & Client Education
This section focuses on the ‘soft skills’ of training. In particular, verbal and nonverbal communication. It also includes nutrition.
List and describe the behaviors that improve nonverbal communication skills.
• Must pay more attention to hydration and clothing to dissipate heat due to reduced thermoregulation, avoid hot/humid exercise conditions • Not the time to expect major fitness improvements • Aerobic exercise at 12-13 RPE, for 150 total minutes weekly • Avoid supine exercises after the first trimester • Focus on controlled exercise to maintain ROM
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 563
What are the barriers to exercise, give a few examples for each?
Barriers to exercise are the commonly cited reasons why individuals may not begin exercising or find long-term adherence difficult.
A major role of the ACSM personal trainer is helping clients think through creative solutions for addressing their barriers to exercise.
The barriers are as follows:
Personal barriers o Lack of time o Lack of motivation o Physical (obesity, chronic disease, etc) o Lack of energy o Poor body image · Social o Family/work obligations o Lack of social support o Gender role/social expectations
Environmental o Lack of access to programs or facilities o Cost of programs o Safety concerns – i.e. lack of sidewalk, unsafe neighborhood o Bad weather
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 234-240
List the role of carbohydrates in the human body and their calorie content.
Carbohydrates:
· 4kcal/gram · Provide energy · Spares protein · Oxidizes fats · Component of other molecules · Stores energy in glycogen
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 167.
List the role of fats in the human body and their calorie content.
Fats: · 9kcal/gram · Energy source · Insulation · Cushion against concussive force · Satiety control · Gives food flavor · Carries essential vitamins
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 172.
List the role of protein in the human body and its calorie content.
Proteins: • 4kcal/gram • enzyme and protein synthesis • transportation of nutrients • energy source Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 172.
List the general macronutrient intake guidelines.
• Fat – 20-35% total calories • Protein – 10-35% total calories • Carbohydrate – 55% total calories
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 168-180.
Let’s be the honest, this section covers the basics of what you need to know as a trainer, but if you really want to be effective, you will want a separate nutrition certification to round out your skills, which then allows you to become a nutrition coach as well.
At Trainer Academy we also have a list of the best sports nutrition certifications, if you want to learn about nutrition as it directly links to athletics performance.
Domain IV – Legal & Professional
The final section covers the scope of practice and liability-related issues in personal training. It is smaller and less emphasized but still has key information you will need for the exam and the job in terms of your basic personal trainer duties.
What are the definition and minimum qualifications of an ACSM personal trainer?
An ACSM Certified Personal Trainer works with exercise-capable individuals to improve health, physical fitness, performance, quality of life, and lasting positive behavioral change. The typical personal training job involves working with clients on safe exercise techniques and programming for various fitness goals.
The minimum requirement for an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer is a high school diploma, CPR and AED certification, and of course, passing the ACSM CPT exam.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 6, 7
What is included within an ACSM certified personal trainer’s scope of practice?
The personal trainer scope of practice can include any of the following activities: • Interview and screen potential clients • Perform fitness assessments on clients to determine their current level • Help clients set realistic goals, change goals as needed, and promote client adherence to the program • Develop and modify exercise programs, including progression, for different fitness goals • Teach and demonstrate safe and effective exercises and educate the client about unsafe exercises • Spot or supervise client during exercise performance • Maintain client records of workout data and progress or lack of progress • Accurately answer clients’ health and fitness questions • Educate clients about fitness and health and encourage them to exercise on their own as well, assuming medical approval
As a certified personal trainer, you will likely perform additional duties outside of the direct scope of practice, such as equipment cleaning or maintenance, paperwork, or other on-the-job duties as required by your specific employment situation.
You must understand that the ACSM CPT certification does not include meal planning or diagnosing injuries or medical conditions. You are also not cleared to work with individuals who cannot exercise independently.
Often, performing regular continuing education credits (CEUs or CECs) is a requirement of major fitness certification organizations. The ACSM CEU requirement is 45 continuing education credits every 3 years. You can earn ACSM CEC credits by taking a variety of additional fitness certifications or attending various conferences or events.
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 6-7
What places do personal trainers work?
Personal trainers work in a variety of environments and arrangements. These include: • Commercial for-profit fitness centers • Community non-profit fitness centers • Corporate wellness centers • University fitness centers • Private studios • Mobile training • Online training • City recreational facilities
Reference: American College of Sports Medicine. ACSM’s Resources for the Personal Trainer, Fifth Edition. Page 17-20.
Conclusion
Becoming an ACSM certified personal trainer sets you apart from many fitness professionals. The ACSM CPT training program will prepare you for many careers in exercise.
Adding these will increase your opportunity to earn the best personal trainer salary. For instance, becoming a fitness instructor will mean that now you have the possibility to both do private sessions and group classes.
Preparation will make or break your ability to pass the exam. We recommend checking out the Trainer Academy ACSM study guide online. If you are wondering how to prepare for exams, we’ve got you covered.
We also have a free ACSM CPT practice test so you can make sure you’re ready to schedule a test.
Hopefully, this ACSM CPT study guide helped you prepare for your examination. It’s time to pick your testing dates and get your ACSM cert!
FAQ
How do I study for the ACSM exam?
Your best bet for studying for the ACSM is purchasing a quality third-party study guide, like the one offered by Trainer Academy to cut down on study time. Without a study guide, your next option is purchasing an expensive test package or studying directly from the ACSM textbook.
The book is dense and a CPT study guide may help you immensely.
Test prep resources and ACSM study materials include: • personal trainer study guide • flashcards • practice questions • structured practice test • study tips • exam tips
This type of exam study material will help you pass your ACSM personal trainer certification exam. Doing a certification review to study all the material is key for passing the exam.
Taking a practice exam with quality practice test questions can make or break your ACSM testing experience.
Is the ACSM test hard?
The ACSM exam has a 69% first-time pass rate, making it moderately difficult in terms of fitness exams.
Is the ACSM exam online?
The ACSM exam is taken online via remote online proctoring through Pearson VUE.
How long does it take to get ACSM certified?
Once you purchase your ACSM exam, you can take it as soon as you are ready. With no background in fitness, expect to spend around 3 months preparing for the ACSM exam.
Does ACSM require a degree?
The ACSM CPT exam does not require a college degree or another fitness degree. A physiology degree is helpful, but not necessary.
At Trainer Academy we want you not only to pass your certification exam, we want you to pick the right one!
Finally you pick the NSCA CSCS exam we’ve got you covered with a CSCS practice test and CSCS study guide, because that’s an exam you want to pass on the first try–the re-test fees are almost as much as the entire exam!
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