Hey there!
Some exciting news happened to me over the weekend...I passed
the CSCS exam. This is a pretty big deal to me and others in my field. The CSCS exam stands for Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and its offered through the NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association). The NSCA is recognized as one of the top organizations (if not the top) around the world in the areas of health and fitness. The CSCS Exam is the gold standard in the field of Strength and Conditioning.
If you'd rather watch a quick video explaining the exam:
CLICK HERE
What is the
CSCS?
The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam is comprised of two sections that test the candidate's knowledge, skill, and ability in the Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied areas.
Scientific Foundations (1.5 hours): covers areas such as exercise science, anatomy & physiology, biomechanics, bioenergetics, metabolism, neuroendocrine physiology, physiological adaptations, knowledge of scientific research and statistics, differences among athletes, sport psychology and nutrition.
Practical/Applied (2.5 hours): covers areas such as exercise technique, resistance training technique, olympic weight lifting and plyometric exercise, speed/sprint technique, agility technique, energy systems development, program design, needs analysis, training
methods and modes, exercise selection & order, exercise intensities, training volumes, work/rest periods, recovery and unloading, exercise progression, periodization models and concepts, programming during athlete injury/reconditioning, organization & administration, design + layout + organization of strength and conditioning facility, professional practice, common litigation issues, testing, ongoing monitoring + data evaluation, selecting appropriate evidence-based tests, administer
testing and implement monitoring protocols and procedures, evaluate and interpret test results.
The test in total is 4 hours, administered at a testing center. Candidates need to be pre-approved for the test to even sit for it; holding a Bachelor's
Degree and a current CPR/AED certification.
Here's a little excerpt from the NSCA's website to give you an indication of JUST how hard this test is:
In 2023, over 5,000 candidates sat for the exam with less than 40% of students passing the CSCS exam on their first try. The CSCS exam is getting increasingly more difficult each year.
This exam is extremely hard to pass. It took me 2 1/2 attempts...but I can finally say I am CSCS certified. I studied for well over a year and spent a good amount of money on the test itself, preparation courses and a tutor. It was well worth it for the excitement I have right now. Set goal for yourself, crush them, then give yourself a pat on the back...it feels so freaking good.
