ACSM Sports Performance Coaching Flashcards
7 cards from real ACSM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 ACSM Sports Performance Coaching flashcards as text
Which sprint training method uses maximum-effort sprints followed by full recovery to develop top-end speed?
Answer: Flying sprints with full rest
Flying sprints with complete rest (1:10–1:20 work-to-rest ratio) allow full CNS recovery, enabling maximal speed expression each repetition.
An athlete has a 1RM back squat of 200 kg and a body mass of 90 kg. Which statement BEST evaluates relative strength?
Answer: The relative strength ratio of ~2.2× body mass indicates high strength levels
Relative strength (1RM ÷ body mass) of ≥2.0× body mass in the squat is generally considered high-level for most sports.
In an ACSM sports performance context, what does 'training age' refer to?
Answer: The cumulative years of systematic, structured training an athlete has completed
Training age reflects years of consistent, structured training and is used to determine appropriate program complexity and loading.
Which assessment BEST quantifies an athlete's lower-body explosive power output?
Answer: Vertical jump with force plate (peak power)
A force plate vertical jump assessment directly measures peak power output in watts, providing the most comprehensive measure of explosive lower-body performance.
A coach wants to minimize injury risk when introducing plyometric training to a novice athlete. Which guideline is MOST appropriate?
Answer: Begin with low-intensity, low-volume jumps (e.g., double-leg ankle hops)
Novice plyometric training should begin with low-intensity, bilateral movements and low volume to develop landing mechanics before progressing.
Which physiological adaptation is PRIMARILY responsible for improved running economy following endurance training?
Answer: Enhanced mitochondrial density and oxidative enzyme activity
Greater mitochondrial density and upregulation of oxidative enzymes allow muscles to produce ATP aerobically at lower oxygen cost, improving economy.
During a post-season athlete review, an ACSM sports performance coach should PRIMARILY focus on:
Answer: Identifying performance gaps, injury history, and setting off-season goals
Post-season reviews analyze performance data, injury patterns, and individual needs to guide a purposeful off-season program design.