NASM Test Prep

[TinaSommer]

I am getting ready to take my NASM test. Some people say the practice tests are not like the test at all, some say it is. Some people say use the study guide... advice??

***Anyone have a copy of the actualy NASM test?!***

[bigfrog]

They rotate tests so nobody can get the copies right. Good luck...... All organizations do.

[TinaSommer]

yea but it will be a good example of the layout....

[prevx]

I just passed it yesterday and imo, its a lot like the practice test. The format is exactly the same and wording is quite similar. I don't know if you've taken it yet, but I think if you just read the book, take the practice test and get at least 80%, you're on the right track.

I got a lot of questions about the OPT model, less muscular imbalances and less muscle anatomy questions than I thought I would.

[AKCPT]

Originally Posted by prevx

I just passed it yesterday and imo, its a lot like the practice test. The format is exactly the same and wording is quite similar. I don't know if you've taken it yet, but I think if you just read the book, take the practice test and get at least 80%, you're on the right track.

I got a lot of questions about the OPT model, less muscular imbalances and less muscle anatomy questions than I thought I would.

True
Do not let negative comments like the practice test is not the same etc.... intimidate you.

If you studied, did the workbook, read the book, and have knowledge/passion for exercise/ PT you'll be fine. If you have the NASM handout that came with the book read that and pay attention to what they say is important.

[TinaSommer]

Yea I am reading the book now, have been doing the work book, taking notes, watching the DVD's, I have the study guide that you get from the workshops (I didnt attend it).

My friend who took is passed it twice, and he has a degree in sports medice. Where I am going to struggle is personally I do the "old fashioned" work out, stick to free weights, so I have a hard time grasping alot of the things they do, and honestly dont really believe too much in them!

[brewu4]

Originally Posted by TinaSommer

Where I am going to struggle is personally I do the "old fashioned" work out, stick to free weights, so I have a hard time grasping alot of the things they do, and honestly dont really believe too much in them!

i felt the same way initially, but when i really started to analyze the opt model i see that is a solid template, at least to start with, and most of your clients are beginners. It really focuses on starting with your core and stabilization, balance, proprioception, which is pretty interesting because these do get often overlooked in a typical regimen. just gotta remember that its a business so this template really ensures your client wont get injured and cost you money. plus it just helps them to see a template and have something to follow, you can certainly mold the opt model to fit your needs. Maybe not the most dynamic program but it is very proven and with all the workout variables most workout programs can be made to follow the model.

[SassyPants13]

Originally Posted by brewu4

i felt the same way initially, but when i really started to analyze the opt model i see that is a solid template, at least to start with, and most of your clients are beginners. It really focuses on starting with your core and stabilization, balance, proprioception, which is pretty interesting because these do get often overlooked in a typical regimen. just gotta remember that its a business so this template really ensures your client wont get injured and cost you money. plus it just helps them to see a template and have something to follow, you can certainly mold the opt model to fit your needs. Maybe not the most dynamic program but it is very proven and with all the workout variables most workout programs can be made to follow the model.

Tina -

The above poster is right.

Another way to jump in and start anayling this model is via hands-on learning. I'm studying as well, and I've found that once I started to break each phase down and focus on it and apply it hands on, is when everything started to click.

I "got" the strength section because it's the method of training most of us apply to our own training. But once I took a step back and started treating myself like I was a stability client, and working through that phase of the model, is when I understood the basis of how all the phases are set up.

For example -

I broke down every stretch/core/balance/reactive/resistance exercise recommended for a stability client including reps and sets for each type of stability client (beginner vs. the client with some exercise background). I also included how to regress/progress each exercise.

Once I had that template set up, I took my notes to the gym and put myself through every single exercise. So, in turn, I was able to train AND study while appling the model hands-on. I referred to the notes during a couple of visits, but the third visit, it was my goal to put myself through the training phase by memory.

Once you've grasped stability, move on to the strength training phase, using the same approach to studying.

[dshinton]

Originally Posted by brewu4

this template really ensures your client wont get injured

That is the main reason I got a NASM certification. I wanted to know how to get a client from a detrained state to their goals without killing them.

[BIGGUNS25]

the practice tests are nothing like the real test. The real test is pretty difficult.

[niknak32]

Tina,
I took the test back in June. It was a good deal of information but if you study you'll do fine. I found that some of the test questions were exactly like the practice tests while others were totally different. I had four months to prepare and didn't really apply myself until the last week and I did fine. You'll do fine as long as you prepare and it sounds like you have a pretty good handle on it. I was scared out of my mind from all of the comments regarding the test. It's achievable.
Nik