NASM-CPT Client Relations and Behavior Change 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A client says, "I've been thinking about starting to exercise sometime in the next six months, but I'm not sure yet." Which stage of the Transtheoretical Model best describes this client?
- Precontemplation
- Preparation
- Contemplation (Correct answer)
- Action
Correct answer: Contemplation
Contemplation means the person intends to change within the next six months but has not committed to a plan yet.
Question 2: During a session, a trainer says, "So what I'm hearing is that your schedule makes morning workouts hard, but you really want to feel more energetic at work." Which motivational interviewing skill is this?
- Affirmation
- Reflective listening (Correct answer)
- Open-ended questioning
- Elicit-provide-elicit
Correct answer: Reflective listening
Reflective listening repeats the client's meaning back to them, which shows understanding and invites them to keep exploring.
Question 3: A client often says, "If it's raining after work, I'll do my 20-minute home workout instead of skipping." What behavior change strategy is this client using?
- Implementation intention (Correct answer)
- Outcome goal
- Decisional balance
- Stimulus control
Correct answer: Implementation intention
An implementation intention is an if-then plan that links a specific situation to a planned behavior.
Question 4: According to self-determination theory, a trainer who lets a client choose between two equally effective workout options is mainly supporting which psychological need?
- Competence
- Relatedness
- Autonomy (Correct answer)
- Self-efficacy
Correct answer: Autonomy
Offering meaningful choices builds a client's sense of autonomy, which strengthens intrinsic motivation.
Question 5: A client's spouse agrees to watch the kids three evenings a week so the client can attend training sessions. Which type of social support is this?
- Emotional support
- Informational support
- Companionship support
- Instrumental support (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Instrumental support
Instrumental support is tangible, practical help, like childcare or transportation, that makes the behavior possible.
Question 6: Which goal is the BEST example of a process goal rather than an outcome goal?
- Lose 15 pounds by summer
- Walk 30 minutes, five days a week, for the next month (Correct answer)
- Fit into a smaller pant size
- Lower resting blood pressure by 10 mmHg
Correct answer: Walk 30 minutes, five days a week, for the next month
Process goals target the behaviors a client controls, while outcome goals target end results like weight or body measurements.
Question 7: A new client sits with arms crossed and gives short answers during the first consultation. What is the trainer's MOST appropriate first response?
- Use open posture, ask open-ended questions, and focus on building rapport (Correct answer)
- Move quickly to the fitness assessment to save time
- Tell the client their body language seems negative
- Give a detailed explanation of program design to show expertise
Correct answer: Use open posture, ask open-ended questions, and focus on building rapport
Building rapport through nonverbal openness and open-ended questions helps a guarded client feel comfortable and engaged.
