Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
Neuromuscular efficiency - ansThe ability of the neuromuscular system to allow agonists,
antagonists, synergists, and stablilzers to work synergistically to produce, reduce, and
dynamically stabilize the kinetic chain in all three planes of motion.
Posture - ansThe independent and interdependent alignment (static posture) and function
(transitional and dynamic posture) of all components of the human movement system at any
given moment; controlled by the central nervous system.
Structural efficiency - ansThe alignment of each segment of the human movement system
(HMS), which allows posture to be balanced in relation to one's center of gravity.
Functional efficiency - ansThe ability of the neuromuscular system to recruit correct muscle
synergies, at the right time, with the appropriate amount of force to perform functional tasks
with the least amount of energy and stress on the human movement system.
Cumulative injury cycle - ansA cycle in which an injury will induce inflammation, muscle
spasm, adhesion, altered neuromusclular control, and muscle imbalances.
Movement impairment syndrome - ansRefers to the state in which the structural integrity of
the human movement system (HMS) is compromised because the components are out of
alignment.
Altered reciprocal inhibition - ansThe process whereby a tight muscle (short, overactive,
myofascial adhesions) causes decreased neural drive and therefore optimal recruitment of its
functional antagonist.
Synergistic dominance - ansThe process by which a synergist compenstates for a prime
mover to maintain force production.
Lower extremity movement impairment syndrome - ansUsually characterized by excessive
foot pronation (flat feet), increased knee valgus (tibia externally rotated and femur internally
rotated and adducted or knock-kneed), and increased movement at the lumbo-pelvic-hip-
complex (extension or flexion) during functional movements.
Upper extremity movement impairment syndrome - ansUsually characterized as having
rounded shoulders and a forward head posture or improper scapulothoracic or glenohumeral
kinematics during functional movements.
Lengthening Techniques - ans2nd phase in the Corrective Exercise Continuum is to lengthen
those overactive or tight neuromyofascial tissues.
Lengthening - ansrefers to the elongation of mechanically shortened muscle and connective
tissuenecessary to increase range of motion (ROM) at the tissue and joint.
2 most common methods of stretching: - ansStatic stretching
Neuromuscular stretching
Static stretching - ansCombines low force with long duration using autogenic inhibition. This
form of stretching allows for relaxation and concomitant elongation of muscle. To perform
static stretching, the stretch is held at the first point of tension or resistance barrier for 30
seconds. Performed solo
Neuromuscular stretching - anscommonly called proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation,or
PNF involves taking the muscle to its end ROM (point of joint compensation), actively
contracting the muscle to be stretched for 7 -15 seconds, then passively moving the joint to a
new end ROM and holding this position for 20-30 seconds.
,Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
Recurrent inhibition - ansA feedback circuit that can decrease the excitability of motor
neurons via the interneuron called the Renshaw cell.
Stretch reflex - ansA muscle contraction in response to stretching within the muscle.
Static stretching is characterized by: - ansThe elongation of neuromyofascial tissue to an end-
range and statically holding that position fora period of time.
Maximal control of structural alignment
Minimal acceleration into and out of the elongated (stretch) position.
Neuromuscular stretching is (NMS) characterized by: - ansTaking the muscle to its end ROM
(point of joint compensation)
Active contraction of the muscle to be stretched
Passively (or actively) moving to a new end ROM
Statically holding new position for 20-30 seconds and repeating 3 times.
Neuromuscular stretching - ansIs a technique that involves a process of isometrically
contracting a desired muscle in a lengthened position to induce a relazation response on the
tissue, allowing it to further elongate. Requires the assistance of another person.
Autogenic inhibition - ansThe process when neural impulses that sense tension are greater
than the impulses that cause muscles to contract, providing an inhibitory effect to the muscle
spindles
What is the origin of the Anterior Tibialis? - ansThe lateral condyle and proximal two thirds f
the lateral surface of the tibia
What is the origin of the Posterior Tibilais ? - ansProximal two thirds surface of the tibia and
fibula
What is the origin of the Soleus? - ansPosterior surface of the fibular head and proximal one
third of its shaft and the posterior side of the tibia
What is the origin of the Gastrocnemius? - ansPosterior aspect of the lateral and medial
femoral condyles
What is the origin of Peroneus Longus? - ansLateral condyle of the tibia, head and proximal
two thirds of the lateral surface of the fibula
What is the origin of the long head of Biceps Femoris? - ansIschial tuberosity of the pelvis
and part of the sacrotuberous ligament
What is the origin of the short head of Biceps Femoris? - ansLower one third of the posterior
aspect of the femur
What is the origin of Semimembranosus? - ansIschial tuberosity of the pelvis
What is the origin of Semitendinosus? - ansIschial tuberosity of the pelvis and part of the
sacrotuberous ligament
What is the origin of Vastus Lateralis? - ansAnterior and inferior border of the greater
trochanter, lateral region of the gluteal tuberosity, lateral lip of the linea aspera of the femur
What is the origin of Vastus Medialis? - ansLower region of the intertrochanteric line, medial
lip of the linea aspera, proximal medial supracondylar line of the femur
,Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
What is the origin of Vastus Intermedius? - ansAnterior-lateral regions of the upper two
thirds of the femur
What is the origin of Rectus femoris? - ansAnterior-inferior illiac spine of the pelvis
What is the origin of Adductor longus ? - ansAnterior surface of the inferior pubic ramus of
the pelvis
What is the origin of the anterior fibers of Adductor magnus? - ansIschial ramus of the pelvis
What is the origin of the posterior fibers of Adductor magnus? - ansIschial tuberosity of the
pelvis
What is the origin of Adductor brevis? - ansAnterior surface of the inferior pubic ramus of
the pelvis
What is the origin of Gracilis? - ansAnterior aspect of the lower body of the pubis
What is the origin of Pectineus? - ansPectineal line on the superior pubic ramus of the pelvis
What is the origin of the anterior fibers of Gluteus medius? - ansOuter surface of the ilium
What is the origin of the posterior fibers of gluteus medius? - ansOuter surface of the ilium
What is the origin of Gluteus maximus? - ansOuter ilium, posterior side of the sacrum,
coccyx, and sacrotuberous ligament, and the posterior sacroiliac ligament
What is the origin of Gluteus minimus? - ansIlium, between the anterior and inferior gluteal
line
What is the origin of Tensor Fascia Late? - ansOuter surface of the illiac crest just posterior
to the anterior-superior iliac spine of the pelvis
What is the origin of Psoas? - ansTransverse processes and lateral bodies of the last thoracic
and all lumbar vertebrae, including the intervertebral disc
What is the origin of Sartorius? - ansAnterior-superior iliac spine of the pelvis
which of the following best describes how plantar fasciitits has affected the population? -
ansmore than one million ambulatory care visits per year are attributed to plantar fasciitis
which of the following is the correct sequence for NASM corrective exercise continuum? -
ansinhibit, lengthen, activate, integrate
which of the following best describes a muscle imbalance? - answhen a muscle on both sides
of the joint are too strong
which of the following best describes a postural distortion syndrome characterized by foot
pronation and lower extremity muscle imbalances? - anspronation distortion syndrome
which of the following best describes proper alignment of the kinetic chain checkpoints? -
ansfeet/ankles: straight, knees: in line with toes, LPHC: pelvis level, Shoulders:level and
head: neutral
which of the following terms best describes an assessment in which movement is occuring
without a change is one's base of support? - anstransitional assessment
which of the following compensations are viewed from the posterior view during the
overhead squat assessment? - ansheel of foot rises
which of the following muscles is overactive if the client demonstrates their feet turning out
during the overhead squat assessment? - ans...
which of the following best describes the purpose of the standing row assessment? -
ansevaluates the function of the LPHC and the scapular and cervical stabilizers
, Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
which of the following is the most appropriate when considering the LESS and tuck jump
tests with a client? - ansif a client has difficulty performing a single leg squat then these tests
are not appropriate
which of the following bones make up the medial longitudinal arch? - anscalcaneus, talus,
navicular, medial cuneiform, and first metatarsal
which bones make up the ankle joint? - ans...
which of the following best describes shin splints - ansmedial tibial stress syndrome Pain in
the front of the tibia is caused by an overload to the tibia and associated musculature
which of the following best describes the tibia and the knww when the feet flatten? - ansa flat
foot will lead to internal tibial rotation and knees will move in
which of the following goniometric measurements are likely to be found if a clients feet turn
out during an overhead squat assessment? - ans...
which of the following forces are the most likely to result in ACL rupture if the client does
not demonstrate proper neuromuscular control of the lower extremities - ansanterior, lateral,
rotational
which of the following is the most appropriate sequence of assessments for the knee
impairments? - ansstatic posture, overhead squat, single-leg squat, tuck jump, goniometric,
and manual muscle testing
if the knees move in during the overhead squat assessment which of the following muscles
needs to be activated? - ansgluteus medius
which of the following would be the most appropriate integrated movement for a client with
elbow and wrist impairments? - ansprone triceps extension with cobra
during activation of the anterior tibialis, which of the following is the most appropriate
position? - ansdorsiflexion and inversion
flexion of the ankle is called - ansdorsiflexion
functionally tightened or overactive muscles accompanying the lower extremity movement
impairment syndrome include - ansperoneals, lateral gastrocnemius, soleus, lateral
hamstrings, IT band adductors
low back pain is a major form of degeneration affecting nearly - ans80% of all adults
Most ACL injuries occur between the ages of - ans15 to 25
muscles assist prime movers during functional movement patterns are known as -
anssynergists
NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum is organized into which four phases - ansinhibit,
lengthen, activate, integrate
of all the work related injuries that involve the trunk, more than ____involve the low back -
ans60%
of the following shoulder injuries which diagnosis is the most common? - ansshoulder
impingment
Clients with low back pain have been reported to demonstrate impaired postural control,
delayed muscle relaxation and abnormal muscle recruitment patterns with the ____and____
musculature being most noticeable - anstransverse abdominius and multifidus
what is the process by which a tight muscle diminishes neural drive and inhibits recruitment
of its functional antagonist - ansaltered reciprocal inhibition
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
Neuromuscular efficiency - ansThe ability of the neuromuscular system to allow agonists,
antagonists, synergists, and stablilzers to work synergistically to produce, reduce, and
dynamically stabilize the kinetic chain in all three planes of motion.
Posture - ansThe independent and interdependent alignment (static posture) and function
(transitional and dynamic posture) of all components of the human movement system at any
given moment; controlled by the central nervous system.
Structural efficiency - ansThe alignment of each segment of the human movement system
(HMS), which allows posture to be balanced in relation to one's center of gravity.
Functional efficiency - ansThe ability of the neuromuscular system to recruit correct muscle
synergies, at the right time, with the appropriate amount of force to perform functional tasks
with the least amount of energy and stress on the human movement system.
Cumulative injury cycle - ansA cycle in which an injury will induce inflammation, muscle
spasm, adhesion, altered neuromusclular control, and muscle imbalances.
Movement impairment syndrome - ansRefers to the state in which the structural integrity of
the human movement system (HMS) is compromised because the components are out of
alignment.
Altered reciprocal inhibition - ansThe process whereby a tight muscle (short, overactive,
myofascial adhesions) causes decreased neural drive and therefore optimal recruitment of its
functional antagonist.
Synergistic dominance - ansThe process by which a synergist compenstates for a prime
mover to maintain force production.
Lower extremity movement impairment syndrome - ansUsually characterized by excessive
foot pronation (flat feet), increased knee valgus (tibia externally rotated and femur internally
rotated and adducted or knock-kneed), and increased movement at the lumbo-pelvic-hip-
complex (extension or flexion) during functional movements.
Upper extremity movement impairment syndrome - ansUsually characterized as having
rounded shoulders and a forward head posture or improper scapulothoracic or glenohumeral
kinematics during functional movements.
Lengthening Techniques - ans2nd phase in the Corrective Exercise Continuum is to lengthen
those overactive or tight neuromyofascial tissues.
Lengthening - ansrefers to the elongation of mechanically shortened muscle and connective
tissuenecessary to increase range of motion (ROM) at the tissue and joint.
2 most common methods of stretching: - ansStatic stretching
Neuromuscular stretching
Static stretching - ansCombines low force with long duration using autogenic inhibition. This
form of stretching allows for relaxation and concomitant elongation of muscle. To perform
static stretching, the stretch is held at the first point of tension or resistance barrier for 30
seconds. Performed solo
Neuromuscular stretching - anscommonly called proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation,or
PNF involves taking the muscle to its end ROM (point of joint compensation), actively
contracting the muscle to be stretched for 7 -15 seconds, then passively moving the joint to a
new end ROM and holding this position for 20-30 seconds.
,Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
Recurrent inhibition - ansA feedback circuit that can decrease the excitability of motor
neurons via the interneuron called the Renshaw cell.
Stretch reflex - ansA muscle contraction in response to stretching within the muscle.
Static stretching is characterized by: - ansThe elongation of neuromyofascial tissue to an end-
range and statically holding that position fora period of time.
Maximal control of structural alignment
Minimal acceleration into and out of the elongated (stretch) position.
Neuromuscular stretching is (NMS) characterized by: - ansTaking the muscle to its end ROM
(point of joint compensation)
Active contraction of the muscle to be stretched
Passively (or actively) moving to a new end ROM
Statically holding new position for 20-30 seconds and repeating 3 times.
Neuromuscular stretching - ansIs a technique that involves a process of isometrically
contracting a desired muscle in a lengthened position to induce a relazation response on the
tissue, allowing it to further elongate. Requires the assistance of another person.
Autogenic inhibition - ansThe process when neural impulses that sense tension are greater
than the impulses that cause muscles to contract, providing an inhibitory effect to the muscle
spindles
What is the origin of the Anterior Tibialis? - ansThe lateral condyle and proximal two thirds f
the lateral surface of the tibia
What is the origin of the Posterior Tibilais ? - ansProximal two thirds surface of the tibia and
fibula
What is the origin of the Soleus? - ansPosterior surface of the fibular head and proximal one
third of its shaft and the posterior side of the tibia
What is the origin of the Gastrocnemius? - ansPosterior aspect of the lateral and medial
femoral condyles
What is the origin of Peroneus Longus? - ansLateral condyle of the tibia, head and proximal
two thirds of the lateral surface of the fibula
What is the origin of the long head of Biceps Femoris? - ansIschial tuberosity of the pelvis
and part of the sacrotuberous ligament
What is the origin of the short head of Biceps Femoris? - ansLower one third of the posterior
aspect of the femur
What is the origin of Semimembranosus? - ansIschial tuberosity of the pelvis
What is the origin of Semitendinosus? - ansIschial tuberosity of the pelvis and part of the
sacrotuberous ligament
What is the origin of Vastus Lateralis? - ansAnterior and inferior border of the greater
trochanter, lateral region of the gluteal tuberosity, lateral lip of the linea aspera of the femur
What is the origin of Vastus Medialis? - ansLower region of the intertrochanteric line, medial
lip of the linea aspera, proximal medial supracondylar line of the femur
,Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
What is the origin of Vastus Intermedius? - ansAnterior-lateral regions of the upper two
thirds of the femur
What is the origin of Rectus femoris? - ansAnterior-inferior illiac spine of the pelvis
What is the origin of Adductor longus ? - ansAnterior surface of the inferior pubic ramus of
the pelvis
What is the origin of the anterior fibers of Adductor magnus? - ansIschial ramus of the pelvis
What is the origin of the posterior fibers of Adductor magnus? - ansIschial tuberosity of the
pelvis
What is the origin of Adductor brevis? - ansAnterior surface of the inferior pubic ramus of
the pelvis
What is the origin of Gracilis? - ansAnterior aspect of the lower body of the pubis
What is the origin of Pectineus? - ansPectineal line on the superior pubic ramus of the pelvis
What is the origin of the anterior fibers of Gluteus medius? - ansOuter surface of the ilium
What is the origin of the posterior fibers of gluteus medius? - ansOuter surface of the ilium
What is the origin of Gluteus maximus? - ansOuter ilium, posterior side of the sacrum,
coccyx, and sacrotuberous ligament, and the posterior sacroiliac ligament
What is the origin of Gluteus minimus? - ansIlium, between the anterior and inferior gluteal
line
What is the origin of Tensor Fascia Late? - ansOuter surface of the illiac crest just posterior
to the anterior-superior iliac spine of the pelvis
What is the origin of Psoas? - ansTransverse processes and lateral bodies of the last thoracic
and all lumbar vertebrae, including the intervertebral disc
What is the origin of Sartorius? - ansAnterior-superior iliac spine of the pelvis
which of the following best describes how plantar fasciitits has affected the population? -
ansmore than one million ambulatory care visits per year are attributed to plantar fasciitis
which of the following is the correct sequence for NASM corrective exercise continuum? -
ansinhibit, lengthen, activate, integrate
which of the following best describes a muscle imbalance? - answhen a muscle on both sides
of the joint are too strong
which of the following best describes a postural distortion syndrome characterized by foot
pronation and lower extremity muscle imbalances? - anspronation distortion syndrome
which of the following best describes proper alignment of the kinetic chain checkpoints? -
ansfeet/ankles: straight, knees: in line with toes, LPHC: pelvis level, Shoulders:level and
head: neutral
which of the following terms best describes an assessment in which movement is occuring
without a change is one's base of support? - anstransitional assessment
which of the following compensations are viewed from the posterior view during the
overhead squat assessment? - ansheel of foot rises
which of the following muscles is overactive if the client demonstrates their feet turning out
during the overhead squat assessment? - ans...
which of the following best describes the purpose of the standing row assessment? -
ansevaluates the function of the LPHC and the scapular and cervical stabilizers
, Comprehensive Exam Study Guide on
NASM CES Final Exam Review.
Latest Updated Guide 2026/2027
which of the following is the most appropriate when considering the LESS and tuck jump
tests with a client? - ansif a client has difficulty performing a single leg squat then these tests
are not appropriate
which of the following bones make up the medial longitudinal arch? - anscalcaneus, talus,
navicular, medial cuneiform, and first metatarsal
which bones make up the ankle joint? - ans...
which of the following best describes shin splints - ansmedial tibial stress syndrome Pain in
the front of the tibia is caused by an overload to the tibia and associated musculature
which of the following best describes the tibia and the knww when the feet flatten? - ansa flat
foot will lead to internal tibial rotation and knees will move in
which of the following goniometric measurements are likely to be found if a clients feet turn
out during an overhead squat assessment? - ans...
which of the following forces are the most likely to result in ACL rupture if the client does
not demonstrate proper neuromuscular control of the lower extremities - ansanterior, lateral,
rotational
which of the following is the most appropriate sequence of assessments for the knee
impairments? - ansstatic posture, overhead squat, single-leg squat, tuck jump, goniometric,
and manual muscle testing
if the knees move in during the overhead squat assessment which of the following muscles
needs to be activated? - ansgluteus medius
which of the following would be the most appropriate integrated movement for a client with
elbow and wrist impairments? - ansprone triceps extension with cobra
during activation of the anterior tibialis, which of the following is the most appropriate
position? - ansdorsiflexion and inversion
flexion of the ankle is called - ansdorsiflexion
functionally tightened or overactive muscles accompanying the lower extremity movement
impairment syndrome include - ansperoneals, lateral gastrocnemius, soleus, lateral
hamstrings, IT band adductors
low back pain is a major form of degeneration affecting nearly - ans80% of all adults
Most ACL injuries occur between the ages of - ans15 to 25
muscles assist prime movers during functional movement patterns are known as -
anssynergists
NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum is organized into which four phases - ansinhibit,
lengthen, activate, integrate
of all the work related injuries that involve the trunk, more than ____involve the low back -
ans60%
of the following shoulder injuries which diagnosis is the most common? - ansshoulder
impingment
Clients with low back pain have been reported to demonstrate impaired postural control,
delayed muscle relaxation and abnormal muscle recruitment patterns with the ____and____
musculature being most noticeable - anstransverse abdominius and multifidus
what is the process by which a tight muscle diminishes neural drive and inhibits recruitment
of its functional antagonist - ansaltered reciprocal inhibition
