Pass the NASM Personal Trainer CPT Questions and answers with ValidTests

Knee valgus is the inward collapse of the knees toward the midline during movement, often seen in squats or jumps. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide defines adduction as movement toward the midline of the body in the frontal plane.

This faulty movement pattern typically indicates overactivity in muscles such as the adductor complex and tensor fascia latae, combined with underactivity in the gluteus medius and maximus. The opposite, abduction, would be knees moving outward. Supination and external rotation refer to foot/ankle and rotational movements, not frontal plane knee movement. Thus, knee valgus is classified as adduction.

Upper crossed syndrome is a common postural distortion pattern characterized by forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and thoracic kyphosis. NASM identifies overactive muscles in this condition as the upper trapezius, levator scapulae, sternocleidomastoid, pectoralis major/minor, and suboccipitals. Underactive muscles include the deep cervical flexors, serratus anterior, lower trapezius, and rhomboids. Corrective exercise strategies involve inhibiting (SMR) and lengthening the overactive muscles—thus the levator scapulae is a primary stretch target. Stretching it helps restore cervical and scapular alignment, improve movement mechanics, and reduce compensations. The other listed muscles—serratus anterior, lower trapezius, and teres minor—are underactive and require strengthening, not stretching.

In the preparation stage of the Transtheoretical Model, the client is getting ready to start regular activity but has not yet established a consistent routine. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide emphasizes that the trainer’s initial focus should be on building rapport, setting realistic expectations, and helping the client develop a clear plan rather than jumping into testing or advanced program design. This discussion fosters motivation, commitment, and clarity, ensuring the client transitions smoothly into regular training with sustainable habits.

NASM’s Integrated Performance Paradigm outlines three sequential phases of efficient movement:

Reduce force eccentrically (control and decelerate)

Stabilize isometrically (hold position to maintain control and alignment)

Produce force concentrically (accelerate in the intended direction).

The isometric stabilization phase occurs immediately after the eccentric phase and before concentric acceleration. For example, in a jump, the body first absorbs impact forces eccentrically, then stabilizes to maintain proper alignment and readiness for propulsion, and finally explosively extends joints concentrically to lift off.

The isometric stabilization stage is critical for joint integrity, muscle coordination, and injury prevention, as it allows the neuromuscular system to prepare for the next movement phase. Therefore, following the eccentric force reduction in the performance paradigm, the next step is to stabilize isometrically.

In the Stages of Change Model, the preparation stage is when a client intends to start exercising soon (within the next 30 days) and may already be taking small steps toward change, such as seeking a workout partner.

In contrast:

Contemplation = thinking about change but not ready to start soon.

Action = actively engaging in new behavior.

Maintenance = sustaining the behavior for 6+ months.

Therefore, actively looking for a committed workout partner indicates preparation.