Passing the NASM Exam: What You Need to Know for NASM Certification
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) is one of the leading certifying bodies for personal trainers in the United States. Obtaining NASM certification demonstrates a high level of expertise in the field of fitness and allows trainers to offer their services to clients with confidence. However, passing the NASM exam requires a lot of preparation and knowledge. In this video, we will cover what you need to know to pass the NASM exam and obtain your certification.
First, let’s start with the basics. To become a NASM certified personal trainer, you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also hold a current CPR/AED certification. Once you meet these requirements, you can register for the NASM exam.
The NASM exam is a computer-based exam that consists of 120 multiple-choice questions. You will have two hours to complete the exam, and a score of 70% or higher is required to pass. The exam is divided into five sections, each covering a different topic:
- Basic and Applied Sciences
- Assessment
- Program Design
- Exercise Technique and Training Instruction
- Professional Development and Responsibility
Let’s break down each section and discuss what you need to know to pass.
Section 1: Basic and Applied Sciences
This section covers the anatomy and physiology of the human body. You will need to understand the body’s systems and how they work together during exercise. You will also need to know how the body responds to exercise and the principles of exercise science.
Section 2: Assessment
In this section, you will learn how to assess a client’s fitness level and create an individualized training program based on their goals and needs. You will need to know how to conduct a comprehensive assessment, including static and dynamic postural assessments, movement assessments, and cardiorespiratory assessments.
Section 3: Program Design
This section covers how to create a safe and effective training program based on the client’s assessment results. You will need to know how to design resistance training, cardiorespiratory training, and flexibility training programs that are specific to the client’s goals and needs.
Section 4: Exercise Technique and Training Instruction
In this section, you will learn how to teach clients proper exercise technique and form. You will need to know how to cue and demonstrate exercises, as well as modify exercises for clients with injuries or limitations.
Section 5: Professional Development and Responsibility
This section covers the professional responsibilities of a personal trainer, including legal and ethical considerations. You will need to know how to communicate effectively with clients, maintain client records, and adhere to industry standards and guidelines.
In addition to studying the content, it is also important to practice test-taking strategies. Make sure you understand the format of the exam and practice answering multiple-choice questions. Pay attention to the wording of questions and answer choices, and eliminate obviously incorrect answers.
Finally, make sure you give yourself enough time to study. NASM recommends at least 10-12 weeks of study time before taking the exam. Use study materials provided by NASM, such as textbooks and online study modules, and supplement your studies with additional resources, such as flashcards and practice exams.
In conclusion, passing the NASM exam and obtaining your certification requires a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology, assessment techniques, program design principles, exercise technique and instruction, and professional responsibilities. By studying the content, practicing test-taking strategies, and giving yourself enough time to prepare, you can confidently pass the NASM exam and take the next step in your career as a personal trainer.
