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NSCA CPSS EXAM 2026/2027
ACTUAL QUESTIONS WITH
VERIFIED ANSWERS.
Understand the relevant theory and principles that underpin
training. - ANSWER-Training Load model, Periodization,
Parallel training model, Sequential Training Model,
Periodization vs Programming - ANSWER-Periodization is a a
macro-management strategy that serves as a training blueprint,
from which periods of time are assigned that target specific
skills, fitness, or performance related factors. Volume and
intensity are inversely related. 1-3 peaks/macrocycles per year
Programming is an operation of strategic thinking which is best
accomplished when ongoing monitoring is integrated into the
periodization process.
How is biological adaptation achieved? - ANSWER-by
disturbing the current capacity of the system
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What is supercompensation? - ANSWER-Supercompensation
is the effect whereby performance is enhanced if the body is
able/allowed to adapt.
What syndrome is supercompensation related to? - ANSWER-
General adaptation syndrome
What is general adaptation syndrome? - ANSWER-The
framework of interaction between the imposed training stress,
acute fatigue response, adaptation, and a new level of
homeostasis/performance.
How does overtraining syndrome develop? - ANSWER-After
continued high volume, high intensity training or both when an
athlete is over-reached.
Which training model is when performance of a positive fitness
effect and a negative fatigue effect decay exponentially over
time but at different rates? - ANSWER-Fitness-fatigue model
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What is the dose-response relationship? - ANSWER-
relationship between the size of an administered dose and the
intensity of the response produced
What qualifies as external load? - ANSWER-Amount of weight
lifted, distance/speed of running, its what an athlete has done.
What is it called when an athlete has responded to an external
load? - ANSWER-Internal load
How is external load measured? - ANSWER-camera systems,
global positioning systems, local positioning systems, often in
conjunction with other sensors such as accelerometers and
power meters.
What is the principle that the energy cost of acceleration is
equivalent to running at a constant speed up an "equivalent
slope"? - ANSWER-Metabolic Power
What is the most appropriate equation for quantifying
resistance training load? - ANSWER-Number of sets x number
of repetitions x percent repetition max
NSCA CPSS EXAM 2026/2027
ACTUAL QUESTIONS WITH
VERIFIED ANSWERS.
Understand the relevant theory and principles that underpin
training. - ANSWER-Training Load model, Periodization,
Parallel training model, Sequential Training Model,
Periodization vs Programming - ANSWER-Periodization is a a
macro-management strategy that serves as a training blueprint,
from which periods of time are assigned that target specific
skills, fitness, or performance related factors. Volume and
intensity are inversely related. 1-3 peaks/macrocycles per year
Programming is an operation of strategic thinking which is best
accomplished when ongoing monitoring is integrated into the
periodization process.
How is biological adaptation achieved? - ANSWER-by
disturbing the current capacity of the system
,2 | Page
What is supercompensation? - ANSWER-Supercompensation
is the effect whereby performance is enhanced if the body is
able/allowed to adapt.
What syndrome is supercompensation related to? - ANSWER-
General adaptation syndrome
What is general adaptation syndrome? - ANSWER-The
framework of interaction between the imposed training stress,
acute fatigue response, adaptation, and a new level of
homeostasis/performance.
How does overtraining syndrome develop? - ANSWER-After
continued high volume, high intensity training or both when an
athlete is over-reached.
Which training model is when performance of a positive fitness
effect and a negative fatigue effect decay exponentially over
time but at different rates? - ANSWER-Fitness-fatigue model
, 3 | Page
What is the dose-response relationship? - ANSWER-
relationship between the size of an administered dose and the
intensity of the response produced
What qualifies as external load? - ANSWER-Amount of weight
lifted, distance/speed of running, its what an athlete has done.
What is it called when an athlete has responded to an external
load? - ANSWER-Internal load
How is external load measured? - ANSWER-camera systems,
global positioning systems, local positioning systems, often in
conjunction with other sensors such as accelerometers and
power meters.
What is the principle that the energy cost of acceleration is
equivalent to running at a constant speed up an "equivalent
slope"? - ANSWER-Metabolic Power
What is the most appropriate equation for quantifying
resistance training load? - ANSWER-Number of sets x number
of repetitions x percent repetition max
