The NSCA provides certification for trainers who meet education requirements and pass exams. CSCS credentials are highly valued by employers and can improve job prospects. The exam consists of two sections and covers exercise science principles, clinical techniques, and injury assessment. Certification can lead to more opportunities and increased pay in the fitness training field.
The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is a worldwide organization dedicated to advancing the scientific understanding and application of physical training techniques. The NSCA provides certification for current and future trainers who meet education requirements and pass comprehensive exams. Certified Strength Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) credentials are highly valued by most employers of trainers and physical therapists, and gaining certification can greatly improve a person’s chances of finding employment in the field.
A person who wants to earn CSCS certification must first meet the NSCA prerequisites. To sit for the exam, an individual usually needs to possess at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Most future professionals specialize in physical therapy, exercise science, or another health-related field, but a degree in any subject will suffice. In addition, test participants must possess current certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) use. CPR and AED certification is offered through short courses at many universities, professional schools, and community and hospital programs.
With the proper education and training, a person can apply to take the CSCS certification test online at the NSCA website. Tests are offered throughout the year at designated test centers throughout the United States and many other countries around the world. Exams are carefully monitored by NSCA-authorized proxies. Written and computer-based exams are available at most testing locations.
The multiple-choice CSCS certification exam consists of two main sections: a 1.5-hour Science Foundations portion and a 2.5-hour Practical Applications portion. The first section consists of 80 questions that test a person’s understanding of exercise science principles. Includes questions on human anatomy, physiology, biology, biomechanics and nutrition. The second section consists of 110 questions covering clinical techniques employed by therapists and trainers. Among other issues, participants are asked about their knowledge of injury assessment, rehabilitation program design, and strength training.
Getting CSCS certified can be very beneficial for starting or advancing a career in fitness training. With CSCS certification, a person is at an advantage when applying for jobs as a private coach, team coach, medical assistant, and school athletic department specialist. While certification is not always required for positions in the field, people who have demonstrated their knowledge and dedication by taking the test are often rewarded with more opportunities for advancement and increased pay.
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