ACSM ACSM Corrective Exercise Specialist 4

Question 1

Lower crossed syndrome is characterized by which pattern of muscle imbalances?

Accepted Answer

Tight hip flexors and lumbar extensors; weak gluteals and abdominals

Answer

Lower crossed syndrome involves overactive hip flexors/lumbar extensors and underactive gluteals/abdominals causing anterior pelvic tilt.

Question 2

Which corrective exercise progression is most appropriate for an initial session with a client who has poor hip mobility and weak glutes?

Accepted Answer

Hip flexor foam roll → kneeling hip flexor stretch → glute bridge

Answer

Beginning with foam rolling and stretching to inhibit and lengthen overactive hip flexors, then activating the glutes, follows the corrective continuum.

Question 3

The 'joint-by-joint' concept suggests that the lumbar spine should primarily function as which type of joint?

Accepted Answer

Stable with limited mobility

Answer

According to the joint-by-joint approach, the lumbar spine is designed for stability, while the thoracic spine and hips provide mobility.

Question 4

A client displays arching of the low back (lumbar extension) during an overhead press. The BEST corrective strategy targets which area first?

Accepted Answer

Foam roll the thoracic spine and stretch the lats before pressing

Answer

Limited thoracic mobility and tight lats force lumbar hyperextension during overhead movements, so releasing these first is the corrective priority.

Question 5

Which assessment finding during a pulling movement (seated row) indicates overactivity of the upper trapezius?

Accepted Answer

Shoulder elevation during the pull

Answer

An overactive upper trapezius causes the shoulder to shrug upward during pulling movements instead of proper scapular depression and retraction.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM ACSM Corrective Exercise Specialist 4