NASM CPT Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (21–30)

Question 1

What exercise is an example of one performed during balance stabilization training?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Single-leg lift and chop. The single-leg lift and chop is an example of an exercise performed during balance stabilization training. Such exercises are characterized by little movement and proprioceptive response to environmental imbalance. The other answer choices are all core training exercises.

Question 2

Which of the following is not one of the building blocks of the OPT model?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Weight management. Weight management is not one of the building blocks of the OPT model. The OPT model consists of three levels of training: stabilization, strength, and power.

Question 3

What is the progression of a dumbbell chest press?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Two-arms, alternating-arms, one-arm. The progression of a dumbbell chest press is two-arms, alternating-arms, and one-arm. This progression is used with most free weight exercises that allow the option of one-armed repetitions. It can provide great variety within the framework of a single exercise.

Question 4

A sedentary lifestyle is one of the major causes of muscle imbalance, where muscles become shorter or longer than they should be. This affects the opposing muscle and causes problems in the musculoskeletal systems. One of the common problems is:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

all of the above. The thoracic spine develops a hunch back alignment or a forward head posture when sitting for too long at a desk.  Tight hip flexors make it impossible for the abdominal muscles to work.

Question 5

Which of the following would be an appropriate core stabilization training exercise?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Marching. Marching would be an appropriate core stabilization training exercise. This involves movement of the legs while lying supine on the floor, during which the spine and pelvis remain mostly motionless.

Question 6

To make up for weak hip extensors, the ________take over the work during an abdominal workout, increasing their risk for injury due to excessive strain, which was originally meant for the glutes.

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

hamstrings. To make up for weak hip extensors, the hamstrings take over the work during an abdominal workout, increasing their risk for injury due to excessive strain, which was originally meant for the glutes. It is possible to correct muscle imbalances and posture problems.  A foam roller, medicine ball and even a tennis ball can be done before or after a workout, focusing on the muscles causing posture problems and imbalances.

Question 7

If your client tells you they want to be challenged more to improve their fitness levels, you can:

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

A and C. A weight-training program should be performed at least twice a week with your client in order to yield good results.  The sessions should be scheduled at least 1 day apart.

Question 8

During which stage of training is interval training introduced?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Stage two. Interval training is introduced during stage two of training. Interval training varies the intensity of exercise and has been shown to cause a longer elevated EPOC following the end of the session, compared to other forms of workouts.

Question 9

Which performance assessment is used to test lower extremity agility and neuromuscular control?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Shark skill test. The performance assessment used to test lower extremity agility and neuromuscular control is the Shark skill test. This test is not appropriate for all clients because it is a progression from the single leg squat.

Question 10

Which of the following is an example of a normal blood pressure measurement?

TheoryPractice · Accepted Answer

Systolic of 120 to 130 mm Hg and diastolic of 80 to 85 mm Hg. A normal blood pressure measurement is 120 to 130 mm Hg systolic and 80 to 85 mm Hg diastolic. Throughout a whole cardiac cycle, blood pressure refers to the pressure created by the heart when pumping and the minimal pressure within the arteries.

NASM CPT Exam Questions & Answers 2026 (21–30)

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