NSCA CSCS Exercise Technique and Coaching 4

Question 1

An athlete demonstrates excessive forward lean of the torso during the back squat. Which muscle group weakness is MOST likely contributing to this fault?

Accepted Answer

Erector spinae and upper back musculature

Answer

Excessive forward lean during the squat often indicates weakness in the erector spinae and upper back muscles that cannot maintain an upright torso against the load.

Question 2

During the barbell bent-over row, the torso should be held at approximately what angle relative to the floor?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 60–70 degrees from vertical (20–30 degrees from horizontal)

Answer

The bent-over row torso position is approximately 60–70 degrees from vertical (20–30 degrees above horizontal), allowing the bar to hang freely while targeting the lats and rhomboids.

Question 3

When coaching plyometric depth jumps, the ground contact time should be:

Accepted Answer

Minimized to develop reactive strength and the stretch-shortening cycle

Answer

Depth jumps target the reactive/elastic component of the SSC, requiring minimal ground contact time (ideally under 0.25 seconds) to maximize neural and elastic adaptations.

Question 4

A strength coach wants to spot an athlete performing the barbell back squat. Where should the spotter(s) position themselves?

Accepted Answer

Directly behind the athlete with hands ready to support under the armpits/chest area

Answer

For the back squat, the primary spotter stands directly behind the athlete with hands positioned to support under the armpits or on the chest/anterior shoulder to assist if needed.

Question 5

The 'double knee bend' or 'scoop' in the Olympic lifts occurs during which phase?

Accepted Answer

As the bar transitions from the knee to the hip (second pull transition)

Answer

The double knee bend occurs as the bar passes the knee during the first-to-second pull transition, when the knees re-flex (scoop) to bring the hips forward for the explosive second pull.

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS Exercise Technique and Coaching 4