NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Periodization Models and Concepts Questions and Answers

Question 1

A collegiate football player is in the middle of his preparatory period. The current training block is focused on developing maximal force production, with core exercises programmed in the 2-6 repetition range at 85-95% of 1RM. Which specific phase of training does this describe?

Accepted Answer

Basic Strength Phase

Answer

The basic strength phase is a component of the preparatory period aimed at increasing the strength of muscles essential to the primary sport movements. It is characterized by high-intensity loads (85-95% 1RM) and low volumes (2-6 reps).

Question 2

A strength and conditioning specialist designs a program for an advanced athlete that involves significant variations in load and volume for the main lifts on a daily basis (e.g., Monday: high-volume/low-intensity; Wednesday: high-intensity/low-volume; Friday: moderate-intensity/moderate-volume). Which periodization model does this training structure exemplify?

Accepted Answer

Undulating (Non-Linear) Periodization

Answer

Undulating or non-linear periodization involves large, frequent (e.g., daily or weekly) fluctuations in the load and volume assignments for core exercises. This contrasts with the traditional linear model, where variables change more gradually over distinct mesocycles.

Question 3

Which of the following is the primary objective of the second transition period in an athlete's annual training plan?

Accepted Answer

To provide a period of active rest and recovery before the next macrocycle.

Answer

The second transition period, also known as active rest, occurs after the final competition of the season. Its main purpose is to allow the athlete to recover physically and mentally before beginning the next annual training plan, often involving low-intensity, non-sport-specific recreational activity.

Question 4

An annual training plan is structured to progress from a high-volume, low-intensity preparatory phase to a low-volume, high-intensity competition phase over several months. This gradual shift in training focus is a hallmark of which periodization model?

Accepted Answer

Traditional (Linear) Periodization

Answer

The traditional, or linear, periodization model is characterized by a gradual, 'linear' increase in intensity and a corresponding decrease in volume as the athlete progresses from the preparatory phase to the competitive phase over several mesocycles.

Question 5

According to the Stimulus-Fatigue-Recovery-Adaptation (SFRA) theory, when is the MOST opportune time to introduce a new, higher-intensity training stimulus to maximize long-term adaptive responses?

Accepted Answer

At the peak of the supercompensation (adaptation) phase.

Answer

The SFRA theory posits that after a training stimulus induces fatigue, a period of recovery follows, leading to a 'supercompensation' or adaptation phase where the athlete's preparedness is temporarily higher than baseline. Applying the next training stimulus during this supercompensation phase is key to inducing further positive adaptations and long-term gains.

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Periodization Models and Concepts Questions and Answers