NSCA CSCS Practical 2

Question 1

When spotting a client performing a barbell back squat, where should the spotter primarily position their hands during the lift?

Accepted Answer

Around the client's torso under the armpits

Answer

The spotter wraps their arms under the lifter's armpits and around the torso to safely assist or catch the load if the lifter fails.

Question 2

During a power clean, the athlete fails to fully extend the hips and knees at the second pull. Which cue is MOST appropriate to correct this?

Accepted Answer

Jump and shrug aggressively at the top

Answer

Cueing a 'jump and shrug' encourages full triple extension of the ankles, knees, and hips, which is the key mechanical flaw in an incomplete second pull.

Question 3

A strength and conditioning coach observes an athlete's knees caving inward (valgus collapse) during a back squat. Which of the following is the BEST corrective cue?

Accepted Answer

Drive your knees out over your toes

Answer

Cueing 'drive your knees out over your toes' activates the hip abductors and external rotators to counteract valgus collapse.

Question 4

An athlete is learning the Romanian deadlift (RDL). Which body position error indicates they are performing it incorrectly?

Accepted Answer

Lower back rounding as hips hinge backward

Answer

Lower back rounding during the RDL indicates a loss of neutral spine and places harmful compressive stress on the lumbar vertebrae.

Question 5

Which grip width is most commonly used for the conventional deadlift to optimize pulling mechanics and minimize bar path deviation?

Accepted Answer

Just outside shoulder-width with a double overhand grip

Answer

A just-outside-shoulder-width double overhand grip keeps the bar close to the body and allows for efficient pulling mechanics in a conventional deadlift.

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS Practical 2