ACSM Sports Performance Coaching 4

Question 1

A performance coach uses GPS data showing an athlete's high-speed running distance has dropped 20% over three consecutive weeks. The BEST initial response is to:

Accepted Answer

Assess total training load and recovery markers before modifying programming

Answer

A consistent decline in high-speed output is a load-monitoring red flag requiring assessment of acute:chronic workload ratios and recovery status before adjustments.

Question 2

Which acute variable manipulation would MOST increase the specificity of resistance training for a shot putter?

Accepted Answer

Incorporating accommodating resistance with bands and chains

Answer

Accommodating resistance maintains tension throughout the strength curve and trains force at velocities more specific to throwing mechanics.

Question 3

In the context of sports performance coaching, 'functional threshold power' (FTP) is MOST directly relevant to which athlete population?

Accepted Answer

Competitive cyclists

Answer

FTP represents sustainable aerobic power output and is a primary performance metric in cycling-specific periodization and training.

Question 4

A coach monitors an athlete's heart rate variability (HRV) and notices a sustained 10-day depression. According to ACSM guidance, this MOST likely suggests:

Accepted Answer

Accumulated fatigue or early non-functional overreaching

Answer

Sustained HRV depression over multiple days indicates the autonomic nervous system is not recovering, a sign of accumulated fatigue or non-functional overreaching.

Question 5

Which training protocol BEST develops alactic speed endurance for a 100-meter sprinter?

Accepted Answer

Repeated 6-8 second maximal sprints with 2-3 minute rest intervals

Answer

Short maximal sprints (≤10 seconds) with long recovery (1:10-1:20 work:rest ratio) train the ATP-PCr system without significant glycolytic accumulation.

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Practice Test

ACSM Sports Performance Coaching 4