NSCA cert, question.

[sirbobmontgomery]

I'm in a personal trainer certification course right now, it's a 5 week 54 hr course that has a 100 question written exam and 50 exercise practical exam on the last 2 days.

Our teacher has worked at many universities and has tons of degrees. He was "approved" to use the NSCA textbook to teach the class and although I am learning a lot, I feel like we're skipping over a lot of the material in the text book and getting down to the grind of program design, assessment, legalities, techniques and exercises.

I take my test in 1 week and the place offers job placement. Their certification is good in local gyms/fitness centers and they get you 2 interviews.

I really like what i'm doing and what i'm learning, but, I really want to be recognized on a national level instead of just going into an LA Fitness and being able to train someone and make $18 an hr. I want it to mean something and I want to learn as much as possible.

The test comes around my area in December or I could take it online. Should I really go thru the entire text book front to back? My dedication is there and i'll do it if need be, i'm just looking for some advice/suggestions. Thanks to all.

[kjhaveri]

Hey man I took my NSCA CPT test last year. I also have my bachelors in Kinesiology. before i took the NSCA test i took a PT class and we learned a lot and we did skip over a lot of stuff in the book. Before the test I would def. read the yellow boxes in your book which highlight the important parts of the sections of each chapter. Def do that for the sections you dont go over in class.

As far as the test go, your class should cover all the basics and you'll be find for passing the test. But as a trainer knowledge is power..the more you can wow your clients and the more you know it will help you down the line. Since you seem very motivated go through the whole book, you got nothing to lose and who knows you might pick up some tips that will lead you to potential clients down the road.... If you have any question about the test PM me. I'd be glad to help. Good Luck!

[sirbobmontgomery]

Thanks very much, repped.

[BSCSCS]

I took my CPT and CSCS right after graduating with my BS which helped a LOT. For both the CPT and CSCS, I read the book from front to back and answered all of the questions after each chapter. Tests were a breeze with this preparation.