010-111 Exam Format | 010-111 Course Contents | 010-111 Course Outline | 010-111 Exam Syllabus | 010-111 Exam Objectives

The exam content outline is the blueprint for your certification examination. Every question on the exam is associated with one of the knowledge or skill statements that are found in the exam content outline. Download the outline that corresponds to the certification of your choice, and you'll also find the percentage of questions within each domain of the exam.



A job task analysis study was completed to describe the job functions of an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer® (ACSM-CPT®). The job task analysis serves as the foundation for the ACSM-CPT® exam blueprint (also known as an exam content outline) which assesses the practice-related knowledge of professionals seeking certification as a requirement of the job as a personal trainer. It is important to note that all ACSM-CPT® examination questions are based on the exam content outline.



Task Name Cognitive Level

I. Initial Client Consultation and Assessment

A. Provide documents and clear instructions to the client in preparation Recall

for the initial interview.

1) Knowledge of:

a) the components of and preparation for the initial client consultation.

b) the necessary paperwork to be completed by the client prior to the initial client

interview.

2) Skill in:

a) effective communication.

b) utilizing multimedia resources (e.g., email, phone, text messaging).

B. Interview the client to gather and provide pertinent information prior to Application

fitness testing and program design.

1) Knowledge of:

a) the components and limitations of a health/medical history, preparticipation

screening, informed consent, trainer-client contract, and organizational policies

and procedures.

b) the use of medical clearance for exercise testing and program participation.

c) health behavior modification theories and strategies.

d) orientation procedures, including equipment utilization and facility layout.

2) Skill in:

a) obtaining a health/medical history, medical clearance, and informed consent.

Job Tasks

Each performance domain is divided into job tasks. Within each task is a list of statements that describe what a personal trainer should know and/or be able to perform as part of their job. Table 2 should provide candidates with a sense of the breadth and depth of information that will be covered on the ACSM-CPT® exam.

Table 2. Job tasks and related knowledge and skill statements

C. Review and analyze client data to identify risk, formulate a plan of action, Synthesis and conduct physical assessments.

1) Knowledge of:

a) risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

b) signs and symptoms of chronic cardiovascular, metabolic, and/or pulmonary disease.
c) the process for determining the need for medical clearance prior to participation in fitness testing and exercise programs.

d) relative and absolute contraindications to exercise testing.

2) Skill in:

a) identifying modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease and teaching clients about risk reduction.

b) determining appropriate fitness assessments based on the initial client consultation.

c) following protocols during fitness assessment administration.

D. Evaluate behavioral readiness and develop strategies to optimize Application exercise adherence.

1) Knowledge of:

a) behavioral strategies to enhance exercise and health behavior change (e.g., reinforcement, S.M.A.R.T. goal setting, social support).

b) health behavior change models (e.g., socioeconomic model, readiness to change model, social cognitive theory, theory of planned behavior) and effective strategies that support and facilitate behavioral change.

2) Skill in:

a) setting effective client-oriented S.M.A.R.T. behavioral goals.

b) choosing and applying appropriate health behavior modification strategies based on the clients skills, knowledge and level of motivation.

E. Assess the components of health- and/or skill-related physical fitness to Synthesis
establish baseline values, set goals, and develop individualized programs.

1) Knowledge of:

a) the basic structures of bone, skeletal muscle, and connective tissue.

b) the basic anatomy of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

c) the definition of the following terms: anterior, posterior, proximal, distal, inferior,
superior, medial, lateral, supination, pronation, flexion, extension, adduction,
abduction, hyperextension, rotation, circumduction, agonist, antagonist, and
stabilizer.

d) the sagittal, frontal (coronal), transverse (horizontal) planes of the body and plane in
which each muscle action occurs.

e) the interrelationships among center of gravity, base of support, balance, stability,
and proper spinal alignment.

f) the following curvatures of the spine: lordosis, scoliosis, and kyphosis.

g) the differences between the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems and the
effects of acute and chronic exercise on each.

h) acute responses to cardiorespiratory exercise and resistance training.

i) chronic physiological adaptations associated with cardiovascular exercise and
resistance training.

j) physiological responses related to warm-up and cool-down.

k) physiological basis of acute muscle fatigue, delayed onset muscle soreness
(DOMS), and musculoskeletal injury/overtraining.

l) physiological adaptations that occur at rest and during submaximal and maximal
exercise following chronic aerobic and anaerobic exercise training.

m) physiological basis for improvements in muscular strength and endurance.

n) expected blood pressure responses associated with postural changes, acute
physical exercise, and adaptations as a result of long-term exercise training.

o) types of muscle contraction, such as isotonic (concentric, eccentric), isometric
(static), and isokinetic.

p) major muscle groups (e.g., trapezius, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, deltoids,
biceps, triceps, rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, erector spinae,
gluteus maximus, hip flexors, quadriceps, hamstrings, hip adductors, hip abductors,
anterior tibialis, soleus, gastrocnemius).

q) major bones (e.g., clavicle, scapula, sternum, humerus, carpals, ulna, radius, femur,
fibula, tibia, tarsals).

r) joint classifications (e.g., hinge, ball and socket).

s) the primary action and joint range of motion specific to each major muscle group.

t) the following terms related to muscles: hypertrophy, atrophy, and hyperplasia.

u) physiological basis of the components of health-related physical fitness
(cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and
body composition).

v) normal chronic physiologic adaptations associated with cardiovascular, resistance,

and flexibility training.
w) test termination criteria, and proper procedures to be followed after discontinuing
an exercise test.

x) anthropometric measurements and body composition techniques (e.g.,
skinfolds, plethysmography, bioelectrical impedance, infrared, dual-energy x-ray
absorptiometry (DEXA), body mass index (BMI), circumference measurements).

y) fitness testing protocols, including pre-test preparation and assessments of
cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body
composition.

z) interpretation of fitness test results.

aa) the recommended order of fitness assessments.

bb) appropriate documentation of signs or symptoms during an exercise session.

cc) various mechanisms for appropriate referral to a physician.

2) Skill in:

a) locating/palpating pulse landmarks, accurately measuring heart rate, and obtaining
rating of perceived exertion (RPE).

b) selecting and administering cardiovascular fitness assessments.

c) locating anatomical sites for circumference (girth) and skinfold measurements.
d) selecting and administering muscular strength and muscular endurance
assessments.

e) selecting and administering flexibility assessments for various muscle groups.
f) recognizing postural deviations that may affect exercise performance and body
alignment.

g) delivering test and assessment results in a positive manner.
F. Develop a plan and timeline for reassessing physical fitness, goals, and Application
related behaviors.

1) Knowledge of:

a) developing fitness plans based on the information obtained in the client interview
and the results of the physical fitness assessments.

b) alternative health behavior modification strategies.

c) the purpose and timeline for reassessing each component of physical fitness
(cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and
body composition).

II. Exercise Programming and Implementation
A. Review the clients goals, medical history, and assessment results and Recall
determine exercise prescription.

1) Knowledge of:

a) the risks and benefits associated with guidelines for exercise training and
programming for healthy adults, older adults, children, adolescents, and pregnant
women.

b) the risks and benefits associated with guidelines for exercise training and
programming for clients with chronic disease who are medically cleared to
exercise.

c) Health-related conditions that require consultations with medical personnel prior
to initiating physical activity.

d) components of health-related physical fitness (cardiovascular fitness, muscular
strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition).

e) program development for specific client needs (e.g., sport-specific training,
performance, lifestyle, functional, balance, agility, aerobic and anaerobic).

f) special precautions and modifications of exercise programming for participation
in various environmental conditions (e.g., altitude, variable ambient temperatures,
humidity, environmental pollution).

g) documenting exercise sessions and performing periodic re-evaluations to assess
changes in fitness status.

B. Select exercise modalities to achieve the desired adaptations based on the Application
clients goals, medical history, and assessment results.

1) Knowledge of:

a) selecting exercises and training modalities based on clients age, functional
capacity, and exercise test results.

b) the principles of specificity and program progression.
c) the advantages, disadvantages, and applications of interval, continuous, and circuit
training programs for cardiovascular fitness improvements.

d) activities of daily living (ADLs) and their role in the overall health and fitness of the
client.

e) differences between physical activity recommendations and training principles for
general health benefits, weight management, fitness improvements, and athletic
performance enhancement.

f) advanced resistance training programming (e.g., super sets, Olympic lifting,
plyometric exercises, pyramid training).

g) the six motor skill-related physical fitness components; agility, balance,
coordination, reaction time, speed and power.

h) the benefits, risks, and contraindications for a wide variety of resistance training
exercises specific to individual muscle groups (e.g., for rectus abdominis,
performing crunches, supine leg raises, and plank exercises).

i) the benefits, risks, and contraindications for a wide variety of range of motion
exercises (e.g., dynamic and passive stretching, Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga, proprioceptive
neuromuscular facilitation, partner stretching)

j) the benefits, risks, and contraindications for a wide variety of cardiovascular training
exercises and applications based on client experience, skill level, current fitness
level and goals (e.g., walking, jogging, running).

C. Determine initial Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, Volume and Progression Application
(i.e., FITT-VP Principle) of exercise based on the clients goals, medical history,
and assessment results.

1) Knowledge of:

a) the recommended FITT-VP principle for physical activity for cardiovascular and
musculoskeletal fitness in healthy adults, older adults, children, adolescents, and
pregnant women.

b) the recommended FITT-VP principle for development of cardiovascular and
musculoskeletal fitness in clients with stable chronic diseases who are medically
cleared for exercise.

c) exercise modifications for those with physical and intellectual limitations (e.g., injury
rehabilitation, neuromuscular and postural limitations).
d) implementation of the components of an exercise training session (e.g., warm-up,
conditioning, cool down, stretching).
e) application of biomechanics and exercises associated with movements of the
major muscle groups (i.e., seated knee extension: quadriceps).

f) establishing and monitoring levels of exercise intensity, including heart rate, RPE,
pace, maximum oxygen consumption and/or metabolic equivalents (METs).

g) determining target/training heart rates using predicted maximum heart rate and
the heart rate reserve method (Karvonen formula) with recommended intensity
percentages based on client fitness level, medical considerations, and goals.

h) periodization for cardiovascular, resistance training, and conditioning program
design and progression of exercises.

i) repetitions, sets, load, and rest periods necessary for desired goals.
j) using results from repetition maximum tests to determine resistance training loads.
D. Review the proposed program with the client, demonstrate exercises, and Application
teach the client how to perform each exercise.

1) Knowledge of:

a) adaptations to strength, functional capacity, and motor skills.

b) the physiological effects of the Valsalva Maneuver and the associated risks.

c) the biomechanical principles for the performance of common physical activities
(e.g., walking, running, swimming, cycling, resistance training, yoga, Pilates,
functional training).

d) the concept of detraining or reversibility of conditioning and effects on fitness and
functional performance.

e) signs and symptoms of over-reaching/overtraining.

f) modifying exercise form and/or technique to reduce musculoskeletal injury.

g) exercise attire for specific activities, environments, and conditions (e.g., footwear,
layering for cold, light colors in heat).

h) communication techniques for effective teaching with awareness of visual,
auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles.

2) Skill in:

a) demonstrating exercises designed to enhance cardiovascular endurance,
muscular strength and endurance, balance, and range of motion.

b) demonstrating exercises for improving range of motion of major joints.

c) demonstrating a wide range of resistance training modalities and activities (e.g.,
variable resistance devices, dynamic constant external resistance devices,
kettlebells, static resistance devices).

d) demonstrating a wide variety of functional training exercises (e.g., stability balls,
balance boards, resistance bands, medicine balls, foam rollers).

e) proper spotting positions and techniques for injury prevention and exercise
assistance.

E. Monitor the clients technique and response to exercise, providing Synthesis
modifications as necessary.

1) Knowledge of:

a) normal and abnormal responses to exercise and criteria for termination of exercise
(e.g., shortness of breath, joint pain, dizziness, abnormal heart rate response).

b) proper and improper form and technique while using cardiovascular conditioning
equipment (e.g., stair-climbers, stationary cycles, treadmills, elliptical trainers).

c) proper and improper form and technique while performing resistance exercises
(e.g., resistance machines, stability balls, free weights, resistance bands,
calisthenics/body weight).

d) proper and improper form and technique while performing flexibility exercises (e.g.,
static stretching, dynamic stretching, partner stretching).

2) Skill in:

a) interpreting client comprehension and body language during exercise.

b) effective communication, including active listening, cuing, and providing
constructive feedback during and after exercise.

F. Recommend exercise progressions to improve or maintain the clients Synthesis
fitness level.

1) Knowledge of:

a) exercises and program modifications for healthy adults, older adults, children,
adolescents, and pregnant women.

b) exercises and program modifications for clients with chronic disease who
are medically cleared to exercise (e.g., stable coronary artery disease, other
cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity, metabolic syndrome,
hypertension, arthritis, chronic back pain, osteoporosis, chronic pulmonary
disease, chronic pain).

c) principles of progressive overload, specificity, and program progression.
d) progression of exercises for major muscle groups (e.g., standing lunge to walking
lunge to walking lunge with resistance).

e) modifications to periodized conditioning programs to increase or maintain
muscular strength and/or endurance, hypertrophy, power, cardiovascular
endurance, balance, and range of motion/flexibility.

G. Obtain client feedback to ensure exercise program satisfaction and adherence. Recall
1) Knowledge of:

a) effective techniques for program evaluation and client satisfaction (e.g., survey,
written follow-up, verbal feedback).

b) client goals and appropriate review and modification.

III. Exercise Leadership and Client Education

A. Optimize participant adherence by using effective communication, motivational Synthesis
techniques, and behavioral strategies.

1) Knowledge of:

a) verbal and nonverbal behaviors that communicate positive reinforcement and
encouragement (e.g., eye contact, targeted praise, empathy).

b) learning preferences (auditory, visual, kinesthetic) and how to apply teaching and
training techniques to optimize training session.

c) applying health behavior change models (e.g., socioecological model, readiness to
change model, social cognitive theory, theory of planned behavior) and strategies
that support and facilitate adherence.

d) barriers to exercise adherence and compliance (e.g., time management, injury, fear,
lack of knowledge, weather).

e) techniques to facilitate intrinsic and extrinsic motivation (e.g., goal setting, incentive
programs, achievement recognition, social support).

f) strategies to increase non-structured physical activity (e.g., stair walking, parking
farther away, biking to work).

g) health coaching principles and lifestyle management techniques related to
behavior change.

h) leadership techniques and educational methods to increase client engagement.
2) Skill in:

a) applying active listening techniques.

b) using feedback to optimize a clients training sessions.

c) effective and timely uses of a variety of communication modes (e.g., telephone,
newsletters, email, social media).

B. Educate clients using scientifically sound resources. Application
1) Knowledge of:

a) influential lifestyle factors, including nutrition and physical activity habits.
b) the value of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins as fuels for exercise and physical
activity.

c) the following terms: body composition, body mass index, lean body mass, anorexia
nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and body fat distribution.

d) the relationship between body composition and health.

e) the effectiveness of diet, exercise and behavior modification as a method for
modifying body composition.

f) the importance of maintaining hydration before, during and after exercise.
g) Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

h) the Female Athlete Triad.

i) the myths and consequences associated with various weight loss methods (e.g.,
fad diets, dietary supplements, over-exercising, starvation diets).

j) the number of kilocalories in one gram of carbohydrate, fat, protein and alcohol.
k) industry guidelines for caloric intake for individuals desiring to lose or gain weight.
l) accessing and disseminating scientifically-based, relevant, fitness- and wellnessrelated
resources and information.

m) community-based exercise programs that provide social support and structured
activities (e.g., walking clubs, intramural sports, golf leagues, cycling clubs).

n) stress management and relaxation techniques (e.g., progressive relaxation, guided
imagery, massage therapy).

IV. Legal and Professional Responsibilities

A. Collaborate with health care professionals and organizations to create a Application
network of providers who can assist in maximizing the benefits and minimizing
the risk of an exercise program.

1) Knowledge of:

a) reputable professional resources and referral sources to ensure client safety and
program effectiveness.

b) the scope of practice for the Certified Personal Trainer and the need to practice
within this scope.

c) effective and professional communication with allied health and fitness
professionals.

d) identifying individuals requiring referral to a physician or allied health services (e.g.,
physical therapy, dietary counseling, stress management, weight management,
psychological and social services).

B. Develop a comprehensive risk management program (including an Application
emergency action plan and injury prevention program) consistent with industry
standards of care.

1) Knowledge of:

a) resources available to obtain basic life support, automated external defibrillator
(AED), and cardiopulmonary resuscitation certification.

b) emergency procedures (i.e., telephone procedures, written emergency
procedures, personnel responsibilities) in a health and fitness setting.

c) precautions taken to ensure participant safety (e.g., equipment placement, facility
cleanliness, floor surface).

d) the following terms related to musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., shin splints, sprain,
strain, bursitis, fractures, tendonitis, patellofemoral pain syndrome, low back pain,
plantar fasciitis).

e) contraindicated exercises/postures and risks associated with certain exercises
(e.g., straight-leg sit-ups, double leg raises, full squats, hurdlers stretch, cervical and
lumbar hyperextension, standing bent-over toe touch).

f) the responsibilities, limitations, and legal implications for the Certified Personal
Trainer of carrying out emergency procedures.

g) potential musculoskeletal injuries (e.g., contusions, sprains, strains, fractures),
cardiovascular/pulmonary complications (e.g., chest pain, palpitations/
arrhythmias, tachycardia, bradycardia, hypotension/hypertension,
hyperventilation), and metabolic abnormalities (e.g., fainting/syncope,
hypoglycemia/hyperglycemia, hypothermia/hyperthermia).

h) the initial management and basic first-aid procedures for exercise-related
injuries (e.g., bleeding, strains/sprains, fractures, shortness of breath, palpitations,
hypoglycemia, allergic reactions, fainting/syncope).

i) the need for and components of an equipment service plan/agreement.
j) the need for and use of safety policies and procedures (e.g., incident/accident
reports, emergency procedure training) and legal necessity thereof.

k) the need for and components of an emergency action plan.

l) effective communication skills and the ability to inform staff and clients of
emergency policies and procedures.

2) Skill in:

a) demonstrating and carrying out emergency procedures during exercise testing
and/or training.

b) assisting, spotting, and monitoring clients safely and effectively during exercise
testing and/or training.

C. Adhere to ACSM Certifications Code of Ethics by practicing in a professional Recall
manner within the scope of practice of an ACSM Certified Personal Trainer.

1) Knowledge of:

a) the components of both the ACSM Code of Ethics as well as the ACSM Certified
Personal Trainer scope of practice.

b) appropriate work attire and professional behavior.

2) Skill in:

a) conducting all professional activities within the scope of practice of the ACSM
Certified Personal Trainer.

D. Follow industry-accepted professional, ethical, and business standards. Recall
1) Knowledge of:

a) professional liability and potential for negligence in training environments.
b) legal issues for licensed and non-licensed healthcare professionals providing
services, exercise testing and risk-management strategies.

c) equipment maintenance to decrease risk of injury and liability (e.g., maintenance
plan, service schedule, safety considerations).

E. Respect copyright laws by obtaining permission before using protected Recall
materials and any form of applicable intellectual property.

1) Knowledge of:

a) national and international copyright laws.

2) Skill in:

a) referencing non-original work.

F. Safeguard client confidentiality and privacy rights unless formally waived or in Recall
emergency situations.

1) Knowledge of:

a) practices/systems for maintaining client confidentiality.

b) the importance of client privacy (i.e., client personal safety, legal liability, client credit
protection, client medical disclosure).

c) the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and the Health Insurance
Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) laws.