ACSM-EP Behavioral Coaching 3

Question 1

Which concept from Social Cognitive Theory refers to learning exercise skills by watching others perform them?

Accepted Answer

Vicarious experience

Answer

Vicarious experience (observational learning) is one of Bandura's four sources of self-efficacy, involving watching a similar model succeed.

Question 2

A client who has never exercised before completes a 10-minute walk without difficulty. The exercise physiologist highlights this success to build confidence. This technique is called:

Accepted Answer

Mastery experience

Answer

Mastery experiences are the strongest source of self-efficacy, as personal accomplishment provides direct evidence of capability.

Question 3

Stimulus control as a behavioral strategy involves:

Accepted Answer

Modifying the environment to trigger or support exercise behavior

Answer

Stimulus control modifies antecedents in the environment (e.g., laying out gym clothes) to cue desired behavior.

Question 4

Which term describes the fluctuation between commitment and resistance that a client feels when considering a behavior change?

Accepted Answer

Ambivalence

Answer

Ambivalence—simultaneously wanting and not wanting to change—is a central concept in motivational interviewing that coaches are trained to resolve.

Question 5

An exercise physiologist avoids arguing with a client who resists exercise recommendations. This MI principle is called:

Accepted Answer

Rolling with resistance

Answer

Rolling with resistance avoids direct confrontation, instead reflecting or reframing the client's statements to reduce defensiveness.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM-EP Behavioral Coaching 3