NASM-CPT Study Guide 2026–2027 — Redesigned Illustrated Edition | 200 Practice Questions

Prepare for the NASM Certified Personal Trainer (NASM-CPT) exam with a complete, illustrated study guide organized by the six exam domains, with 200 practice questions and detailed answer explanations.

WHAT'S INSIDE

• 93 pages, 8.5 × 11 in, print-ready PDF with a clickable table of contents
• Current exam facts: 120 questions (100 scored), 2-hour time limit, scaled passing score of 70, eligibility, testing window, retake waiting periods, and recertification, plus the six domains and their weights
• Basic and applied sciences and nutrition: the nervous, skeletal, muscular, and cardiorespiratory systems, planes of motion, energy systems, adaptations, macronutrients, hydration, energy balance, and nutrition scope of practice
• Assessment: health history and the PAR-Q+, risk factors and red flags, special populations, postural distortion patterns, overhead squat compensations with overactive and underactive muscles, and performance and body composition tests
• Program design: the OPT model, all five phases, acute-variable tables, resistance training systems, and periodization
• Exercise technique and training instruction: flexibility, cardiorespiratory zones and Karvonen calculations, core, balance, reactive, and SAQ training by level, plus session structure, coaching cues, breathing, and spotting
• Client relations and behavioral coaching: stages of change, SMART goals, communication, and client acquisition and retention
• Professional development and responsibility: code of ethics, scope of practice, emergency aid, CPR and AED, and liability
• 40+ quick-reference tables and 9 labeled diagrams, including the OPT model, planes of motion, the sarcomere, the vertebral column, blood flow through the heart, energy systems, the core systems, and kinetic chain checkpoints
• A final review checklist of key concepts
• 2 practice tests with 100 questions each (200 total), organized by exam domain and topic
• Complete answer keys with an explanation for every question
• Ten-week and four-week study schedules, FAQs, test-taking strategies, and test-anxiety techniques

WHO IT'S FOR

• Candidates preparing for the NASM-CPT exam
• Fitness professionals formalizing their experience with an accredited credential
• Instructors and gym managers supporting new trainers

FORMAT

Instant digital download. Study on any device or print at home. No physical item will be shipped.

PLEASE NOTE

NASM® is a registered trademark of the National Academy of Sports Medicine. This product is not affiliated with or endorsed by NASM or any testing organization.