NSCA-CPT Psychology and Behavior Change 3

Question 1

What is 'exercise adherence' and what factor has been identified as ONE of the strongest predictors of long-term adherence?

Accepted Answer

Consistent engagement with an exercise program over time; one of the strongest predictors is self-efficacy (belief in one's ability to exercise)

Answer

Exercise adherence is sustained participation over time; self-efficacy — the belief that one can successfully perform and maintain exercise — is consistently identified as one of the strongest adherence predictors.

Question 2

According to Social Cognitive Theory, what is 'vicarious experience' and how can trainers use it to build client self-efficacy?

Accepted Answer

Observing others similar to oneself successfully perform a task; trainers can show client success stories or pair clients with similar peers

Answer

Vicarious experience (modeling) builds self-efficacy when clients see others like them succeed; trainers can leverage this by sharing success stories or facilitating group training with similar-level clients.

Question 3

What is 'extrinsic feedback' in the context of motor skill learning during personal training sessions?

Accepted Answer

Information provided by the trainer (verbal cues, video review) about performance quality

Answer

Extrinsic (augmented) feedback is information provided from an external source (trainer, video, mirrors) about the quality of movement, supplementing the client's internal body awareness.

Question 4

A client achieves their initial weight loss goal and suddenly loses motivation to continue training. What behavior change technique would BEST help maintain long-term engagement?

Accepted Answer

Collaborate with the client to set new, meaningful process and outcome goals aligned with their evolving values

Answer

Setting new personally meaningful goals maintains forward momentum; involving the client in goal revision increases ownership and reignites intrinsic motivation.

Question 5

Which of the following BEST describes the personal trainer's role in supporting a client through the 'relapse' stage of the Transtheoretical Model?

Accepted Answer

Normalize the relapse as part of the change process, identify triggers, and collaboratively adjust the plan

Answer

Relapse is a normal part of behavior change; trainers should normalize it, help the client identify what triggered it, and use the experience to build more resilient strategies going forward.

NSCA-CPT Exam Practice Test

NSCA-CPT Exam Practice Test

NSCA-CPT Psychology and Behavior Change 3