iPREP is a trusted test‑prep provider offering a full National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer exam (NASM-CPT) prep course, and on this page you can access free sample questions with full explanations and video walkthroughs.
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Test Breakdown with Sample Questions
The NASM CPT is divided into six domains. Each domain measures an ability or characteristic that is critical to your success as a personal trainer.
There are 120 questions on the test. Your score will be based on 100 of these questions, while the other 20 are used for research purposes and don’t impact your score.
| Domain | Percentage of test | Approximate number of questions | Time per question |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic and applied sciences and nutritional concepts | 17% | 20 | 60 seconds |
| Assessment | 18% | 22 | 60 seconds |
| Program design | 21% | 25 | 60 seconds |
| Exercise technique and training instruction | 22% | 27 | 60 seconds |
| Client relations and behavioral coaching | 12% | 14 | 60 seconds |
| Professional development and responsibility | 10% | 12 | 60 seconds |
All the NASM test questions are multiple-choice, and each question has four answer options.
Domain 1 – Basic and Applied Sciences and Nutritional Concepts
This section tests your knowledge of human anatomy and the six body systems. Expect to see questions relating to concepts and structures of anatomy, the functions of exercise physiology as it relates to the different systems within the body, and functional biomechanics. The section also includes questions relating to functional biomechanics, principles of human movement, and principles of motor development.
In addition, this section will include questions covering macro and micronutrients, hydration, caloric intake, portion sizes, diets, nutritional supplements, food labeling, and factors relating to weight management physiology.
Domain 2 – Assessment
In the assessment section, you will be asked questions testing your knowledge of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q), essential elements of personal and family medical history, medical risk factors, and lifestyle concerns.
The section also covers your knowledge of cardiorespiratory assessments, physiological assessments, performance assessments, and movement assessments.
Additionally, you will be tasked with responding to questions covering criteria for reassessments, considerations for modifying assessments for special needs populations, indications that a client’s condition requires a referral, and the applicability of assessments from other health professionals.
Domain 3 – Program Design
The program design domain tests your knowledge of different training methods, including resistance and cardiovascular training. You will need to answer questions relating to program design for special populations, fitness technology, trends, risk vs. reward of different modalities, and the principles of specificity, overload, and variation.
Domain 4 – Exercise Technique and Training Instruction
In this domain, you will answer questions about kinesthetic, auditory, and visual cueing techniques. You will also be challenged to demonstrate your knowledge of safe training practices, safe spotting techniques, kinetic chain checkpoints, and signs or symptoms that require training modifications.
Domain 5 – Client Relations and Behavioral Coaching
This domain shifts from exercise to working with clients. It covers communication components, SMART goal development, goal expectation management, barriers to behavioral change, and client expectation management.
Domain 6 – Professional Development & Responsibility
The last section of the test examines your knowledge of professional and ethical guidelines and stresses the code of conduct. It reviews business fundamentals, marketing and sales, and equipment maintenance.
You’ll also answer questions about your professional liability, requirements for maintaining professional credentials, rules and regulations relating to personal trainers, and credible resources of information regarding health and fitness.
Did you know?
The NASM-CPT exam has six domains: (1) basic and applied sciences and nutritional concepts, (2) assessment, (3) program design, (4) exercise technique and training instruction, (5) client relations and behavioral coaching, and (6) professional development and responsibility. You must score a scaled score of 70 to pass the exam. To pass the test, you will need to display mastery of personal training based on the NASM course.
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.
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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
- Assessment
- Program design
- Exercise technique and training instruction
- Client relations and behavioral coaching
- 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 should register for the exam at least 60 days before taking the tests to give yourself adequate time to prepare. However, you can register for it no later than 3 days before the test.
The NASM test is administered by PSI Services LLC, a standalone subsidiary of ETS. You will need to register with PSI to take the test, either by calling 800.211.2754 or at their website at https://candidate.psiexams.com/. You will receive confirmation of location, date, and time. You will not be admitted to the test at any other time, date, or location.
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
Due to COVID-19, NASM has started to allow you to take the NASM exam online with a live remote proctor. Be in touch with the NASM Member Services department for more information at https://www.nasm.org/contact.
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 historical data, approximately 66% of test takers pass the test.
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 test is challenging, but taking NASM CPT practice exams will help you prepare for the test. Approximately 2 out of 3 test-takers pass the test.
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.
In order to take the test, you need to sign up for the NASM CPT certification program. Once you are signed up you can take the test when you feel you are ready.
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. Due to COVID-19, the test is also offered online via a live remote proctor.
- Test Schedule: Contact the PSI center to find out when the test is available
- 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.
Well done!
You have completed the Sample Questions section.
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