CSCS and CPT Certification

THE CSCS CREDENTIAL:

The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) program was created in 1985 to identify individuals who possess the knowledge and skills to design and implement safe and effective strength and conditioning programs. The credentialing program encourages a higher level of competence among practitioners that raises the quality of strength training and conditioning programs provided by those who are CSCS certified. Today, nearly 11,000 professionals from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds hold this prestigious credential. This diverse group includes strength coaches, athletic trainers, physical therapists, personal trainers, physicians, chiropractors, researchers and educators.

To earn the CSCS credential, candidates must pass a rigorous exam comprised of two sections, each of which is two hours in length. The Scientific Foundations section consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to assess a candidate's knowledge in the areas of exercise sciences (anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics, etc.) and nutrition. The Practical/Applied section consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. Thirty of these are in conjunction with a videotape, that assesses competencies in exercise techniques, functional anatomy and testing protocols. The remaining 60 questions pertain to program design, organization/administration and testing/evaluation.

THE NSCA-CPT CREDENTIAL:

The NSCA-Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT) certification is designed for professionals who work one-on-one with their clients in a variety of environments, including YMCAs, schools, health/fitness clubs and clients' homes. The exam thoroughly tests the knowledge and skills that are necessary to successfully train active and sedentary physically healthy individuals, as well as the elderly and obese. Personal trainers with specialized expertise may also be involved in training clients with orthopedic, cardiovascular and other chronic conditions. Although no formal post-secondary course work is required, candidates are expected to have a good knowledge of biomechanical concepts, training adaptations, anatomy, exercise physiology, program design guidelines and current position papers pertaining to special populations.

Since the NSCA-CPT program's inception in 1993, it has quickly become internationally recognized and respected. Today, nearly 5,000 professionals hold this certification. To achieve certification as an NSCA-CPT, candidates are required to pass a challenging, two-and-one-half hour written examination that includes 120 questions focusing on client consultation and assessment, program planning, exercise techniques, and safety, emergency procedures and legal issues.

EXAM ELIGIBILITY:

To be eligible to take the CSCS exam, you must be certified in CPR, hold a BA/BS degree, be enrolled as a college senior at an accredited college or university, or hold a degree in chiropractic medicine.

To be eligible to take the NSCA-CPT exam, candidates must be at least 18 years of age, possess a high school diploma or the equivalent and be CPR certified.

EXAM REGISTRATION DEADLINES:

Early Exam Registration Deadline = Friday, March 12, 2004

Late Exam Registration Deadline = Friday, March 26, 2004 (+ $35)

EXAM COSTS:

The costs to sit for the CSCS Examination are:

$250 - for NSCA members

$335 - for non-members

The costs to sit for the NSCA-CPT Examination are:

$225 - for NSCA members

$310 - for non-members