CSCS Periodization & Performance Planning Flashcards
6 cards from real CSCS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CSCS Periodization & Performance Planning flashcards as text
Which of the following best defines 'training specificity' (SAID principle)?
Answer: The body adapts specifically to the type of demand placed upon it
The SAID (Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands) principle states that physiological adaptations are specific to the nature of the training stress applied.
A strength coach writes a program with volume increasing each week for 3 weeks, followed by a 4th deload week, then repeating at a higher load. This describes which periodization concept?
Answer: Wave loading within a mesocycle
Wave loading organizes multiple weeks of progressive overload followed by a recovery week, then repeats the wave at a higher absolute load to drive continued adaptation.
For an athlete competing in a sport requiring maximal power (e.g., sprinting), which training quality should occupy the greatest portion of the in-season mesocycle?
Answer: Sport-specific power and speed maintenance at reduced volume
In-season training prioritizes maintaining power and sport-specific qualities at reduced volume to prevent fatigue while preserving competitive fitness.
What is the primary difference between a 'mesocycle' and a 'microcycle'?
Answer: A mesocycle is a medium-term training block (weeks to months); a microcycle is typically one week of training
A mesocycle is a medium-length training block of several weeks with a specific training focus, while a microcycle is the shortest repeating unit, typically one week.
Which of the following is an example of 'concurrent training interference' that strength coaches must manage?
Answer: High-volume endurance training impairing maximal strength and hypertrophy adaptations
Concurrent training interference (the 'interference effect') occurs when excessive endurance training blunts the molecular signaling pathways needed for strength and hypertrophy gains.
According to NSCA recommendations, what is the minimum recovery time between resistance training sessions targeting the same muscle groups?
Answer: 48 hours
NSCA guidelines recommend at least 48 hours of recovery between sessions that stress the same muscle groups to allow adequate repair and adaptation.