ACSM-EP Exercise Testing & Prescription 4

Question 1

A client with type 2 diabetes wishes to begin a vigorous aerobic program. Beyond standard pre-participation screening, the EP should specifically monitor for:

Accepted Answer

Hypoglycemia and peripheral neuropathy-related foot injuries

Answer

People with T2D are at risk for exercise-induced hypoglycemia (especially if on insulin/secretagogues) and foot injuries due to peripheral neuropathy reducing protective sensation.

Question 2

Which parameter is calculated by dividing oxygen consumption by the work rate (W) and represents the mechanical efficiency of the cardiovascular-pulmonary system?

Accepted Answer

O2 pulse (VO2/HR)

Answer

O2 pulse (VO2 ÷ HR) reflects stroke volume × arteriovenous O2 difference and is a surrogate for cardiac stroke volume during exercise testing.

Question 3

A 40-year-old female client has a resting BP of 138/88 mmHg. According to the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines adopted by ACSM, she is classified as:

Accepted Answer

Stage 1 hypertension

Answer

Under the 2017 ACC/AHA classification, a BP of 130–139/80–89 mmHg is Stage 1 hypertension; 138/88 falls squarely in this category.

Question 4

During maximal exercise testing, the respiratory exchange ratio (RER) value that typically confirms maximal effort has been achieved is:

Accepted Answer

≥ 1.10

Answer

An RER ≥ 1.10 at peak exercise is a strong indicator of maximal effort, as excess CO2 production from bicarbonate buffering drives RER above 1.0.

Question 5

For a client performing aquatic exercise, which adjustment should the EP make when prescribing intensity using heart rate?

Accepted Answer

Subtract 10–17 bpm from land-based targets due to hydrostatic pressure and cooling

Answer

Aquatic exercise HR is typically 10–17 bpm lower than equivalent land-based exercise due to hydrostatic pressure increasing venous return, horizontal position, and water's cooling effect.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM-EP Exercise Testing & Prescription 4