PAS Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield PAS facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Scapular winging observed during a push-up is most associated with weakness in which muscle? → Serratus anterior
2. Which vertebral landmark is typically palpated to identify the L4–L5 interspace during a lumbar assessment? → The iliac crests
3. For a typist experiencing wrist extensor strain, which keyboard positioning change is the priority ergonomic fix? → Position keyboard so wrists remain neutral (neither flexed nor extended)
4. In the context of PAS recovery protocols, what does the term 'tissue tolerance' refer to? → The maximum mechanical load a healing tissue can safely accept at a given stage
5. A client shows excessive trunk lean to one side during a single-leg squat. Which muscle group is most likely underactive on the stance leg? → Hip abductors and gluteus medius
6. When correcting an anterior pelvic tilt, which muscle group should be prioritized for strengthening? → Gluteus maximus and abdominal muscles
7. Which of the following best describes a key competency required for biomechanical analysis & movement in PAS practice? → Strong analytical skills combined with effective communication and ethical judgment
8. What is the primary goal of postural correction interventions? → To improve alignment and reduce discomfort
9. When assessing spinal alignment from a posterior view, a posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) height difference most directly suggests what? → Leg length discrepancy or pelvic obliquity
10. In the NASM Corrective Exercise Continuum, what is the PRIMARY purpose of the 'activate' phase? → To reeducate underactive muscles through isolated strengthening
11. In the context of PAS certification, what is the most important consideration when implementing corrective exercise programming? → Ensuring alignment with established standards, stakeholder needs, and best practices
12. Leg length discrepancy most commonly leads to which postural compensation? → Lateral pelvic tilt and functional scoliosis
13. Which gait deviation involves the pelvis dropping on the unsupported side during single-leg stance? → Trendelenburg gait
14. What is the primary role of the deep longitudinal subsystem (DLS) during gait? → Force transmission from the foot through the ipsilateral posterior chain
15. Which muscle is primarily responsible for neck extension and maintaining head posture? → Trapezius muscle
16. A PAS client has a lateral pelvic tilt with the right hip elevated. Which muscle on the right side is most likely overactive? → Right quadratus lumborum
17. Which law states that a bone will remodel along the lines of mechanical stress placed upon it? → Wolff's Law
18. The Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (FABQ) is used in pain assessment to measure: → The degree to which fear of pain drives avoidance of activity
19. A PAS client who chronically over-breathes (hyperventilates) is MOST likely to exhibit which postural finding? → Elevated and flared lower ribcage with reduced thoracic mobility
20. A PAS assessment reveals a client's feet externally rotate more than 8 degrees at rest. Which muscle is most likely overactive? → Piriformis
21. Which is an example of maintaining professional boundaries? → Focusing on client care only
22. In the context of PAS certification, what is the most important consideration when implementing spinal alignment & assessment? → Ensuring alignment with established standards, stakeholder needs, and best practices
23. The erector spinae group consists of three columns. Which is the most medial column? → Spinalis
24. Which concept describes the ability of the neuromuscular system to produce, reduce, and stabilize forces in all three planes of motion? → Integrated Performance Paradigm
25. Which postural deviation is characterized by a lateral curvature of the spine? → Scoliosis
26. A PAS professional is asked by a colleague to falsify session attendance records for a mutual client. The ethical response is to: → Refuse and report the request through appropriate channels if necessary
27. Which behavior BEST demonstrates professional boundaries for a Postural Alignment Specialist? → Maintaining a formal client-practitioner relationship at all times
28. A PAS specialist identifies knee valgus during a jump landing. Which integrated corrective exercise is most appropriate in the Integrate phase? → Single-leg squat with band resistance at knee
29. A client presents with medial knee collapse (dynamic valgus) during a single-leg squat. Which compensatory pattern at the hip is most likely contributing? → Hip adductor dominance with gluteus medius inhibition
30. A client with chronic low back pain displays catastrophizing thoughts about their condition. This cognitive pattern is BEST addressed by: → Acknowledging concerns and referring to a mental health professional if appropriate