NSCA TSAC-F Tactical Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21Consider the fitness evaluation format used by a tactical unit. If soldiers feel that this test genuinely reflects their stamina and skills needed for field operations, which type of test validity does this imply?
✓ Correct answer: A. Face validity
Face validity refers to the degree to which test participants recognize a test as accurately measuring what it claims to measure. In this case, soldiers believe that the test reflects the skills and stamina necessary for tactical operations.
Q22A tactical strength and conditioning facilitator is evaluating the anaerobic endurance of a team. Which of the following tests is designed to measure anaerobic endurance?
✓ Correct answer: B. 300-yard shuttle
Answer: 300-yard shuttle. The 300-yard shuttle test is a common assessment of anaerobic endurance where participants sprint back and forth between two lines set 25 yards apart, completing the total distance as quickly as possible. The 1.5-mile run is primarily a test of aerobic capacity, and the T-test mainly measures agility. Anaerobic endurance is characterized by the ability to sustain high-intensity efforts, making the 300-yard shuttle an appropriate test.
Q23During a lower body 1RM test, what is the typical weight increment added to the barbell following a successful lift?
✓ Correct answer: B. 31-40 pounds
The recommended 1RM testing protocol for lower body exercises advises adding 31-40 pounds (14-18 kg) upon a successful lift. This increment ensures adequate challenge to establish the maximum limit. For upper body exercises, a smaller increase of 9-20 pounds (4-9 kg) is recommended.
Q24How many coaches are needed to supervise a training session for 30 adult soccer players?
✓ Correct answer: C. 1 coach
Answer: 1 coach Staff-to-athlete ratios are a key part of organizing training. For those older than high school age, the ratio of staff to athletes is 1:20. With 30 adults, only one coach is required.
Q25How many safety officers should be present at a physical training session for a group of 25 first responders to ensure proper supervision?
✓ Correct answer: A. Two
Answer: Two For tactical training, there are recommended supervision ratios to ensure safety and efficiency. The preferred officer-to-trainee ratio is 1:15 for tactical training environments. For 25 first responders, a ratio of 1:15 would necessitate two safety officers to maintain effective supervision.
Q26For optimal recovery following intense physical training sessions lasting over three hours, how much potassium should be consumed per liter of fluid, according to the MDRI guidelines?
✓ Correct answer: A. 78-195 mg potassium/liter
Answer: 78-195 mg potassium/liter According to the Military Dietary Reference Intakes (MDRI), the guidelines are designed to assist in recovery and maintain electrolyte balance after periods of intense physical exertion, including extended training sessions lasting more than three hours. For each liter of fluid consumed, 78-195 mg of potassium is recommended to replenish losses and support physiological functions.
Q27For a tactical athlete with a vigorous training regimen ensuring adequate caloric intake, what are the recommended carbohydrate requirements to optimize performance and recovery?
✓ Correct answer: C. 3-5 g/lb body weight
Answer: 3-5 g/lb body weight. Tactical athletes with vigorous training require substantial carbohydrate intake to support glycogen stores, aid recovery, and sustain energy levels. Guidelines suggest: - Tactical athletes with low to moderate activity: 2-3 g/lb per day - Tactical athletes with vigorous activity: 3-5 g/lb per day - If caloric intake is inadequate, further increase carbohydrate intake to prevent muscle loss.
Q28Which of the following does not contribute to muscle energy production during high-intensity exercise?
✓ Correct answer: A. Beta-Alanine
Answer: Beta-Alanine Beta-Alanine is primarily used for buffering muscle pH and does not directly contribute to energy production. Creatine and ATP are both integral to the process of supplying energy to muscles during high-intensity activities.
Q29How should hydration strategies change for tactical athletes operating in desert versus arctic environments?
✓ Correct answer: B. Hydration needs increase in both desert and arctic environments
Answer: Hydration needs increase in both desert and arctic environments. In desert environments, due to increased sweating and dry air, the body loses water rapidly, requiring increased fluid intake. In arctic environments, although less sweating occurs, the cold air and higher energy expenditure through shivering also increase hydration needs. Tactical athletes need to adapt their hydration strategies to meet these demands to maintain performance and health.
Q30Consider the table below to identify the nutritional supplements that are both effective and carry low risk for enhancing recovery in tactical athletes. Supplement Effectiveness Risk Level Creatine High Low Omega-3 Fatty Acids Moderate Low Protein Powder High Low Glutamine Low Low Growth hormone High High
✓ Correct answer: C. Creatine, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Protein Powder
Creatine, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, and Protein Powder are considered effective supplements with a low risk profile. Creatine is particularly noted for its ability to boost ATP production, which is beneficial for high-intensity workouts. Omega-3 Fatty Acids have been shown to aid in reducing inflammation, and Protein Powder is integral for muscle recovery. These supplements are backed by research to be safe and effective, unlike Growth hormone, which poses a high risk of serious side effects.
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