Reviewed by Tamir Rubin, Head of Product at iPREP • Updated January 2026
NASM CPT Sample Question
A 42-year-old client presents with an excessive forward lean during the overhead squat assessment. The trainer notes tightness in the gastrocnemius and hip flexor complex.
What is the MOST appropriate corrective stretch for this client?
- Static calf stretch
- Standing adductor stretch
- Static latissimus dorsi stretch
- Standing biceps femoris stretch
Topics Covered
High-level content areas
- Basic science, anatomy, physiology, biomechanics
- Nutrition concepts for fitness settings
- Client relations, communication, behavior change
- Screening and fitness assessments
- Program design principles and progressions
- Exercise technique and training instruction
- Professional development, ethics, scope responsibilities
Test Duration
Total time: 120 minutes (2 hours) • 120 questions (100 scored + 20 unscored pretest)
Passing standard: scaled score 70 (pass/fail reported for passers)
Plan to move steadily and flag time-consuming items to revisit. Avg pace: ~60 seconds per question.
Test Breakdown & Sample Questions
The NASM CPT exam is divided into six domains. Each domain measures knowledge and skills that are important for entry-level personal trainers.
There are 120 multiple-choice questions on the exam. Your score is based on 100 scored questions. The remaining 20 questions are unscored (used for statistical or research purposes) and do not affect your result.
| Domain | % of test | Approx. # of questions (out of 120) | Time per question (avg.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic and Applied Sciences and Nutritional Concepts | 15% | 18 | ~60 seconds |
| Client Relations and Behavioral Coaching | 15% | 18 | ~60 seconds |
| Assessment | 16% | 19 | ~60 seconds |
| Program Design | 20% | 24 | ~60 seconds |
| Exercise Technique and Training Instruction | 24% | 29 | ~60 seconds |
| Professional Development and Responsibility | 10% | 12 | ~60 seconds |
All NASM CPT exam questions are multiple-choice. Each question has four answer options.
Domain 1 – Basic and Applied Sciences and Nutritional Concepts
This domain focuses on foundational science knowledge used in personal training. Expect questions on anatomy, body systems, exercise physiology, biomechanics, and principles of human movement.
You may also see questions on nutrition concepts commonly used in fitness settings, such as macro- and micronutrients, hydration, portion guidance, food labels, and basic factors related to weight management.
Domain 2 – Client Relations and Behavioral Coaching
This domain focuses on working effectively with clients. Topics may include communication skills, building rapport, goal-setting (including SMART goals), managing expectations, motivation, behavior-change basics, and common barriers to adherence.
Domain 3 – Assessment
This domain covers screening and assessment concepts used to guide program decisions. Topics may include readiness/screening questionnaires, health history and risk factors, lifestyle considerations, and when to refer a client to a qualified healthcare provider.
Expect questions on common assessment categories (for example, cardiorespiratory, movement, performance, and other fitness-related assessments), reassessment timing, and adapting assessments for special populations.
Domain 4 – Program Design
This domain tests your ability to design safe, effective programs. Expect questions on resistance training and cardio programming, applying training principles (such as specificity, overload, and variation), choosing appropriate modalities, and modifying programs for special populations.
You may also see questions about trends and fitness technology at a high level.
Domain 5 – Exercise Technique and Training Instruction
This domain focuses on coaching and instruction. Topics may include cueing (visual, auditory, and kinesthetic), exercise technique, safe training practices, spotting basics, and recognizing when technique or training should be modified based on client response.
Domain 6 – Professional Development and Responsibility
This domain covers professional conduct and responsibilities. Expect questions on ethical and professional guidelines, business fundamentals (such as basic marketing and sales concepts), and maintaining a safe training environment.
It may also include questions on professional liability, maintaining credentials, relevant rules and regulations that can apply to personal trainers, and identifying credible health and fitness resources.
Did you know?
The NASM-CPT exam has six domains: (1) Basic and Applied Sciences and Nutritional Concepts, (2) Client Relations and Behavioral Coaching, (3) Assessment, (4) Program Design, (5) Exercise Technique and Training Instruction, and (6) Professional Development and Responsibility. You must earn a passing scaled score of 70.
To pass the exam, you’ll need to demonstrate entry-level personal training knowledge and decision-making aligned with the exam outline and professional best practices.
NASM-CPT Preparation Strategies
The NASM CPT test is based on NASM’s personal trainer program. The program has a range of options for taking the course, starting at $799 for a self-study course and going up to $2,698 for an all-inclusive course that includes virtual coaching.
Each program option includes practice exams, quizzes, and knowledge checks, which you should take to track your progress as you learn the material.
In addition to the NASM-provided materials, here are steps you should take to give yourself the best chance to pass the test:
1. Create a Weekly Study Schedule
Passing the NASM requires discipline. Build a weekly study plan using the calendar feature in your phone and follow it religiously. You will need to block off large chunks of time for studying if you are going to pass the test.
2. Take Advantage of Free Time
The NASM materials are all online. If you find yourself sitting in a waiting room, riding the bus, or having nothing to do, go to the site and read through the materials.
3. Identify Areas Where You Struggle
As you go through the course, take note of difficult material. Go through the entire NASM CPT textbook and track the concepts that you found most difficult. While studying, spend extra time on those sections.
4. Utilize Third-Party Test-Taking Tools
Sign up for iPrep’s NASM CPT course and take NASM practice tests until you are consistently scoring 100% in every section.
5. Improve your Multiple-Choice Answering Skills
All NASM exam questions are multiple choice, meaning you have a 1 in 4 chance at getting any question right. By improving your multiple-choice skills, you can eliminate answers and improve your chance of success. iPrep materials include tips for multiple choice tests and offer you time-saving tools to help you get through the test faster.
6. Practice Timed Situations
The closer you can simulate the test during practice, the more comfortable you will be on test day. Take online practice tests in an environment that closely mimics the conditions of the actual test.
Test Features
NASM Test Fast Facts (tl;dr)
- Total of 120 questions.
- Test is 2 hours long.
- There are 6 domains on the test:
- Basic and applied sciences and nutritional concepts
- Client relations and behavioral coaching
- Assessment
- Program design
- Exercise technique and training instruction
- Professional development and responsibility
- The test must be taken within 180 days of signing up for the CPT certification course. Extensions are available for a fee.
- The test is proctored, either through an online proctor or at a testing center.
- You will need to attest to a number of conditions before taking the test, including that you will abide by the rules of the test.
- You must show a government-issued photo ID and have a current CPR/AED certification test to take the NASM exam.
Here are some additional important features you should know about the NASM CPT Exam:
Registering for the exam
You can register and schedule your NASM CPT exam through your NASM candidate account. Scheduling availability can vary by location, test center capacity, and live remote proctoring appointment times, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Recommended timing: Register and schedule as early as possible so you can choose your preferred date and time.
Latest scheduling window: In general, you should complete registration and schedule your exam no later than 24 hours before your preferred testing date/time.
Rescheduling and cancellations: Rules and fees can vary based on how close you are to your appointment time. Review the scheduling policies in your candidate portal before you book (and before making changes).
Exam Check-in
When you arrive at the testing facility, you will need to show a photo ID with a name that matches the name file with NASM and the name used to register for the exam at PSI.
You may only take the test at the location on your registration confirmation, and you must present a copy of your current CPR/AED certification card.
Rescheduling or Cancelling an Exam
There is no fee to reschedule the exam provided that you give notice to PSI more than 24 hours in advance. If you miss your scheduled exam, the cost of the exam is forfeited, and you will need to purchase a retest. In addition, you will be charged a late cancellation fee to cover the cost of the empty seat.
Remote Testing
NASM offers an online testing option with a live remote proctor. This allows you to take the exam from an eligible location while being monitored in real time.
Important: Remote testing has specific technical, identification, and testing-environment requirements. Check your candidate portal for the current rules and setup steps before scheduling.
Retaking the Exam
If you don’t pass the NASM CPT exam, you can retake the test after 1 week. If you are unsuccessful on the second attempt, you may take a third attempt after a 30-day waiting period. Any additional failed exams require a 1-year waiting period.
Retests are included in the cost of the Guided Study and Virtual Coaching NASM CPT training packages. They cost $199 each for the self-study packages.
Results Scale and Interpretations
Tests are scored immediately upon completion, and you will receive a preliminary result. These results take approximately 2 weeks to confirm, as NASM reviews the results for anomalies, and there is the possibility that results will be rescored.
Raw scores are converted into scaled scores. A scaled score of 70 or higher is considered passing. If you pass the test, you will not be told your score.
Candidates who fail the test are given a breakdown of their scores to help them prepare for the retest.
Based on NASM’s published exam statistics, the pass rate can vary by reporting period. For example, one recent report shows a 79% pass rate for Nov 1, 2022 – Nov 1, 2023. Another recent NASM statistics report lists a different pass rate for its reporting window.
Those who pass will receive by mail their NASM Certified Personal trainer Certificate.
NASM-CPT FAQs
The NASM CPT exam is a certification test for aspiring personal trainers. It is the culmination of a comprehensive personal training course and is considered to be a top certification by employers.
The NASM is a 120-question test covering the materials that an aspiring personal trainer needs to know ranging from anatomy, physiology, nutrition, assessment, designing programs, working with clients, and professional development. The test covers six different domains.
Study the material from the NASM CPT certification course.
The exam can be challenging, especially if you’re new to exercise science, program design, and client coaching. Using realistic practice questions and full-length practice exams can help you build familiarity with the question style and improve pacing.
Pass rates vary by reporting period. For example, NASM has published a 79% pass rate for Nov 1, 2022 – Nov 1, 2023.
There are 120 questions on the NASM CPT text. Your score is based on 100 of these questions, while the additional 20 questions are for research purposes.
Yes. You can register for the NASM-CPT exam without purchasing NASM preparation materials. Once you have an active exam authorization/eligibility, you can schedule your test when you’re ready (subject to availability in your area or for live remote proctoring).
Many candidates who have taken the official NASM practice exam report that it is very different from the actual exam. However, the practice exam does point to areas where you are weaker and need to spend more time studying.
The NASM offers its certification course with different levels of support. The regular price for the basic, self-study course is $799 and is the least expensive option.
You have 180 days from the time you sign up for the certification program until you have to take the test. Ideally, you should use that time to learn the material and study for the test.
You can’t trick the NASM test. The best way to pass the NASM CPT certification test is to learn the materials and study for the test. Create a structured study program, review areas where you are weak, and take practice tests to help identify areas of strength and weakness.
Yes, the NASM exam is multiple choice.
If you’d like to take the NASM CPT exam remotely, be in touch with the NASM Member Services department at https://www.nasm.org/contact.
To pass the NASM exam, you will need to score a scaled score of 70.
If you fail the NASM test you can take the test again. Depending on the certification course that you signed up for, you may need to pay for retests. You must wait at least 7 days before taking your second test. If you fail a second time, you must wait 30 days to take the test a third time. All additional attempts require you to wait one year.
Come certification packages include free retests. If your certification package does not include free retests, they cost $199 each.
You must be at least 18 and have either graduated from high school or completed a GED.
NASM-CPT Test Tips
- Read each question carefully
Many of the questions require you to apply material you’ve learned in the course to other situations.
- Manage your time
You only have one minute per question. Don’t spend too much time on any question.
- Know your strengths
If you come to a section that you can’t answer, guess and move on. You won’t lose points for wrong answers, but you will lose out by running out of time and not being able to answer questions you know at the end of the test.
- Get as many questions right as you can
Don’t worry about not getting all the answers right. You will receive the same certification with a 70 score as you will with a 100.
- Plan your NASM CPT Strategy
Your best bet for a great test day is planning, studying, and practicing. The more you practice leading up to test day, the more comfortable you will be when facing the actual test.
Administration
- Test Location: Tests are administered at PSI testing locations. The exam may also be available online via live remote proctoring.
- Test Schedule: Schedule your exam through your NASM candidate portal (PSI). Available dates and times vary by location and by live remote proctoring availability.
- Test Format: Multiple choice on a computer
- Test Materials: Test is administered on computer. You may not use any resources while taking the test.
- Cost: The NASM CPT course starts at $799 and includes the test. Retakes may be included depending on the course package you purchased. If it is not included, retakes cost $199.
- Retake Policy: You must wait a minimum of one week for your second attempt, 30 days for your third attempt, and one year for any subsequent attempts.
Test Provider
The test is created by the National Academy of Sports Medicine as part of its personal trainer certification and is accredited by the NCCA. NASM courses use their proprietary Optimum Performance Training™ (OPT™) model, a system based on scientific, evidence-based research. These courses maximize your skills and ability to help your clients excel beyond ordinary expectations while improving your career opportunities.
The test is administered by PSI, a standalone subsidiary of ETS, which has over 70 years of experience delivering successful testing programs.
Information Sources
- NASM – National Academy of Sports Medicine
- NCCA – the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment
- PSI Exams
Disclaimer – All the information and prep materials on iPrep are genuine and were created for tutoring purposes. iPrep is not affiliated with the National Academy of Sports Medicine, NCCA, PSI Services LLC, or any other company mentioned.
Free NASM practice test: Get to know what the NASM CPT exam will be like by practicing with these sample questions:
Question 1 of 10
A 42-year-old client presents with an excessive forward lean during the overhead squat assessment. The trainer notes tightness in the gastrocnemius and hip flexor complex.
What is the MOST appropriate corrective stretch for this client?
- Static calf stretch
- Standing adductor stretch
- Static latissimus dorsi stretch
- Standing biceps femoris stretch
The correct answer is A.
Explanation:
Excessive forward lean is often caused by overactive gastrocnemius, soleus, and hip flexors. A static calf stretch directly targets the gastrocnemius/soleus and helps correct this compensation.
The assessment indicates overactivity in the calf and hip flexor complex. Stretching the gastrocnemius with a static calf stretch addresses the primary imbalance, while the other options focus on unrelated muscles.
Option B is incorrect: The standing adductor stretch targets inner thigh muscles, not the calves or hip flexors. Distractor logic: Misinterpreting adductors as contributors to forward lean.
Option C is incorrect: The latissimus dorsi are not primary contributors to forward lean in the squat. Distractor logic: Confusing upper-body involvement with lower-body imbalance.
Option D is incorrect: The standing biceps femoris stretch addresses hamstrings, which are not the overactive muscles causing this compensation. Distractor logic: Associating posterior chain tightness incorrectly with forward lean.
Question 2 of 10
A 27-year-old beginner client has completed 4 weeks of stabilization endurance training in the OPT model. They have consistently performed well with proper form and endurance.
Which is the MOST appropriate next step in their progression?
- Living benefit riderRemain in Phase 1 for another 4 weeks
- Progress to Strength Endurance Training (Phase 2)
- Advance directly to Hypertrophy Training (Phase 3)
- Begin Power Training (Phase 5)
The correct answer is B.
After successful adaptation in Phase 1 (Stabilization Endurance), the NASM OPT model recommends progression to Phase 2 (Strength Endurance).
The client has demonstrated consistent form and endurance, showing readiness to build on their foundation by moving into Phase 2, which emphasizes strength while maintaining stability.
Option A is incorrect: Remaining in Phase 1 unnecessarily delays progression. Distractor logic: Assuming more time in Phase 1 is always required.
Option C is incorrect: Hypertrophy (Phase 3) is too advanced for a beginner at this stage. Distractor logic: Jumping ahead to muscle growth without sufficient strength endurance base.
Option D is incorrect: Power training (Phase 5) is inappropriate for a new client without having completed intermediate strength phases. Distractor logic: Mistaking progress for skipping straight to advanced performance goals.
Question 3 of 10
A 55-year-old client with no major medical concerns reports occasional dizziness when rising quickly from the floor to standing.
Which adjustment should the trainer recommend FIRST?
- Eliminate resistance training and focus on flexibility only
- Variable subaccount performanceRefer immediately to a physician for emergency evaluation
- Transition more slowly between seated and standing positions
- Avoid all lower-body training to prevent blood pressure changes
The correct answer is C.
For clients with mild postural hypotension, the recommended adjustment is to transition gradually between positions, such as moving more slowly from seated to standing.
This is a safe and appropriate within-scope modification. It addresses the dizziness without unnecessarily restricting exercise or overstepping professional boundaries.
Option A is incorrect: Eliminating resistance training is overly restrictive. Distractor logic: Misinterpreting the symptom as a contraindication for strength training.
Option B is incorrect: Emergency referral is not necessary for occasional, mild dizziness without red-flag symptoms. Distractor logic: Overreacting to a common, manageable issue.
Option D is incorrect: Avoiding lower-body training entirely is unnecessary. Distractor logic: Incorrectly assuming lower-body work drives the dizziness.
Question 4 of 10
During a pushing assessment, a 30-year-old client demonstrates shoulder elevation when performing a standing cable chest press.
Based on this movement compensation, which muscle is MOST likely underactive?
- Levator scapulae
- Upper trapezius
- Sternocleidomastoid
- Mid and lower trapezius
The correct answer is D.
Shoulder elevation during pushing indicates overactive upper trapezius and levator scapulae, while the mid and lower trapezius are underactive. Strengthening the mid/lower trapezius helps correct this imbalance.
This compensation pattern shows excessive recruitment of the upper traps, making it essential to activate and strengthen the stabilizing function of the mid and lower traps.
Option A is incorrect: Levator scapulae are typically overactive in this scenario. Distractor logic: Mistaking an overactive muscle for an underactive one.
Option B is incorrect: Upper trapezius is also overactive, not underactive. Distractor logic: Confusing the compensating muscle with the one needing activation.
Option C is incorrect: Sternocleidomastoid is unrelated to this movement pattern. Distractor logic: Selecting an unrelated neck muscle.
Question 5 of 10
According to NASM’s OPT model, what is the recommended repetition range for Phase 1: Stabilization Endurance Training?
- 12–20 reps
- 6–12 reps
- 1–5 reps
- 8–10 reps
The correct answer is A.
Phase 1 of the OPT model emphasizes muscular endurance and stabilization, prescribing 12–20 repetitions at 50–70% of 1RM with controlled tempo.
This higher-rep range is designed to build postural control, joint stability, and muscular endurance before progressing to strength or hypertrophy phases.
Option B is incorrect: 6–12 reps is the standard hypertrophy range. Distractor logic: Confusing strength/muscle-building with endurance training.
Option C is incorrect: 1–5 reps corresponds to maximal strength training. Distractor logic: Mixing advanced performance goals with beginner stabilization.
Option D is incorrect: 8–10 reps does not align with any specific OPT phase prescription. Distractor logic: Choosing a generic middle-ground range.
Question 6 of 10
Which of the following BEST defines muscular endurance according to NASM?
- The ability to produce and maintain force for prolonged periods
- The maximum amount of force a muscle can generate once
- The greatest amount of weight lifted at a moderate speed
- The speed of force production during explosive movements
The correct answer is A.
NASM defines muscular endurance as the ability to produce and maintain force for prolonged periods, particularly under repeated contractions.
This distinguishes endurance from strength (maximum force once), hypertrophy (moderate loads for muscle growth), and power (explosive force production).
Option B is incorrect: This defines maximal strength (1RM). Distractor logic: Confusing endurance with peak force output.
Option C is incorrect: This reflects hypertrophy training loads. Distractor logic: Mixing muscle growth parameters with endurance.
Option D is incorrect: This describes muscular power, not endurance. Distractor logic: Equating speed of movement with sustained ability.
Question 7 of 10
All of the following are overactive muscles when the knees move inward during the overhead squat assessment EXCEPT:
- Adductor complex
- Gluteus medius
- Tensor fascia latae (TFL)
- Vastus lateralis
The correct answer is B.
The gluteus medius is typically underactive when the knees move inward (valgus collapse), contributing to poor lateral stabilization. It is therefore the correct exception.
Knee valgus during the overhead squat is linked to overactive adductors, TFL, and vastus lateralis. Strengthening the gluteus medius is recommended to restore balance and proper alignment.
Option A is incorrect: The adductor complex is commonly overactive in this movement compensation. Distractor logic: Correctly identified overactive muscle but mistaken as exception.
Option C is incorrect: The tensor fascia latae (TFL) tends to be overactive, pulling the knees inward. Distractor logic: Confusing stabilizers with underactive muscles.
Option D is incorrect: The vastus lateralis is often overactive, contributing to valgus movement. Distractor logic: Assuming all quadriceps are underactive.
Question 8 of 10
During Phase 5: Power Training, NASM recommends a typical rest interval of:
- 30–60 seconds
- 0–90 seconds
- 3–5 minutes
- 1–2 minutes
The correct answer is C.
Phase 5 (Power Training) requires long recovery to restore ATP-CP energy stores fully. NASM prescribes 3–5 minutes of rest between sets to maximize power output.
This ensures complete neuromuscular recovery and the ability to maintain explosive performance across sets, which shorter rest intervals would compromise.
Option A is incorrect: 30–60 seconds is typical for endurance training. Distractor logic: Confusing stabilization/endurance recovery times with power.
Option B is incorrect: 0–90 seconds applies to stabilization and strength endurance phases. Distractor logic: Misattributing endurance rest periods.
Option D is incorrect: 1–2 minutes is generally used for hypertrophy. Distractor logic: Associating hypertrophy rest with power needs.
Question 9 of 10
A 33-year-old client reports knee discomfort when running and demonstrates knees moving inward during the overhead squat assessment. The client’s primary goal is weight loss, but they also want to continue running recreationally.
What should the trainer address FIRST in program design?
- Increase running mileage gradually while monitoring pain
- Add plyometric drills to improve dynamic leg stability
- Incorporate corrective strengthening of the gluteus medius and stretching of the adductors
- Shift focus entirely to upper-body strength training until pain subsides
The correct answer is C.
The priority is to correct the movement impairment. Knee valgus during the squat is typically linked to weak gluteus medius and overactive adductors. Addressing these imbalances helps reduce knee discomfort and supports safe running.
NASM’s integrated training model emphasizes resolving compensations before progressing to higher training volumes or advanced modalities, ensuring long-term safety and effectiveness.
Option A is incorrect: Increasing mileage without addressing the imbalance may worsen faulty mechanics. Distractor logic: Focuses on endurance progression but ignores corrective needs.
Option B is incorrect: Plyometrics are too advanced until the client’s faulty patterns are corrected. Distractor logic: Assuming explosive work will fix instability.
Option D is incorrect: Avoiding all lower-body training is unnecessary and counterproductive. Distractor logic: Overly cautious approach instead of corrective strategy.
Question 10 of 10
A 58-year-old client with controlled hypertension wants to improve cardiovascular endurance. They have limited time (3 days per week) and show excessive forward lean in the overhead squat assessment.
Which program approach is MOST appropriate to begin with?
- Start with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to maximize cardiovascular benefits in limited time
- Focus on hypertrophy resistance training combined with daily running sessions
- Implement advanced plyometric training to improve posture and endurance simultaneously
- Begin with Phase 1 Stabilization Endurance training, emphasizing postural control and moderate-intensity cardio
The correct answer is D.
For older adults with hypertension, NASM prioritizes safety and stabilization before advancing to higher intensities. Phase 1 Stabilization Endurance addresses postural issues like excessive forward lean, while moderate-intensity cardio safely develops cardiovascular fitness.
This approach integrates the client’s health status, assessment findings, and goals, creating a safe foundation for progressive training while supporting weight management and cardiovascular health.
Option A is incorrect: HIIT can be contraindicated initially for hypertensive clients due to the high cardiovascular load. Distractor logic: Assuming efficiency outweighs safety concerns.
Option B is incorrect: Hypertrophy training with daily running ignores corrective needs and increases risk of overuse. Distractor logic: Believing more volume accelerates progress.
Option C is incorrect: Plyometric training is too advanced at this stage and unsafe with postural deviations. Distractor logic: Misinterpreting explosive training as a corrective tool.
