NASM Behavior Change & Client Psychology

Question 1

Which stage of the Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change) describes a client who is not thinking about starting exercise in the next 6 months?

Accepted Answer

Precontemplation

Answer

Precontemplation is the stage where individuals have no intention of changing behavior in the foreseeable future, often unaware or underestimating the problem.

Question 2

According to NASM, what is the primary communication skill that builds rapport with clients during fitness consultations?

Accepted Answer

Active listening

Answer

Active listening — giving full attention, reflecting understanding, and asking open-ended questions — is foundational to building the trainer-client relationship.

Question 3

Self-efficacy, as it relates to exercise adherence, refers to:

Accepted Answer

A client's belief in their ability to successfully perform a specific behavior

Answer

Self-efficacy is the individual's confidence in their capacity to execute a behavior successfully, and higher self-efficacy strongly predicts exercise adherence.

Question 4

Which of the following best represents an example of intrinsic motivation for exercise?

Accepted Answer

Exercising because it brings personal enjoyment and satisfaction

Answer

Intrinsic motivation arises from internal rewards like enjoyment, curiosity, and satisfaction rather than external incentives or pressures.

Question 5

In the Contemplation stage of behavior change, the most effective trainer strategy is to:

Accepted Answer

Highlight benefits and help resolve ambivalence about change

Answer

Clients in Contemplation acknowledge a need to change but are ambivalent; trainers should explore pros and cons to help tip the balance toward action.

NASM - Certified National Academy of Sports Medicine Specialist Practice Test

NASM - Certified National Academy of Sports Medicine Specialist Practice Test

NASM Behavior Change & Client Psychology