Key Takeaways
- Scientific Foundations: Exercise Science (55%), Sport Psychology (24%), Nutrition (21%).
- Practical/Applied: Exercise Technique (36%), Program Design (35%), Testing/Evaluation (18%), Administration (11%).
- 30-40 questions on Practical/Applied section involve video or image analysis.
- Must pass both sections within one year—can retake failed sections separately.
- Unscored questions are experimental and don't count toward your score.
Last updated: January 2026
Exam Structure and Content Breakdown
The CSCS exam is divided into two separately-timed sections. Understanding the exact breakdown of content areas helps you allocate study time effectively.
Section 1: Scientific Foundations (1.5 hours)
This section tests your foundational knowledge in exercise science, psychology, and nutrition.
| Domain | Weight | Questions | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science | 55% | 44 | Anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, bioenergetics |
| Sport Psychology | 24% | 19 | Motivation, arousal, goal setting, mental skills |
| Nutrition | 21% | 17 | Macronutrients, hydration, supplements, timing |
| Unscored | — | 15 | Experimental questions (not identified) |
| Total | 100% | 95 | — |
Exercise Science Topics (55%)
- Muscular anatomy and physiology
- Neuromuscular physiology
- Bone and connective tissue
- Cardiopulmonary anatomy and physiology
- Biomechanics
- Bioenergetics and metabolism
- Neuroendocrine physiology
- Physiological adaptations to training
- Differences among athletes (age, sex, training status)
- Scientific research interpretation
Sport Psychology Topics (24%)
- Motivation and arousal regulation
- Goal setting and performance
- Mental imagery and visualization
- Attention and concentration
- Self-confidence development
- Psychological characteristics of successful athletes
- Team dynamics and leadership
Nutrition Topics (21%)
- Macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats)
- Micronutrients (vitamins, minerals)
- Hydration and fluid replacement
- Pre/during/post-exercise nutrition
- Dietary supplements and ergogenic aids
- Weight management strategies
- Nutrition for specific populations
Section 2: Practical/Applied (2.5 hours)
This section tests your ability to apply knowledge in real-world strength and conditioning settings.
| Domain | Weight | Questions | Topics Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Technique | 36% | 40 | Proper form, spotting, equipment |
| Program Design | 35% | 38 | Periodization, exercise selection, progression |
| Testing & Evaluation | 18% | 20 | Fitness assessments, data interpretation |
| Organization & Admin | 11% | 12 | Facility, safety, legal, professional issues |
| Unscored | — | 15 | Experimental questions (not identified) |
| Total | 100% | 125 | — |
Exercise Technique Topics (36%)
- Resistance training exercise technique
- Speed and agility exercise technique
- Plyometric exercise technique
- Aerobic endurance exercise technique
- Flexibility and mobility exercises
- Spotting techniques
- Equipment usage and safety
- 30-40 video/image-based questions
Program Design Topics (35%)
- Needs analysis for athletes
- Exercise selection and order
- Training frequency and volume
- Intensity prescription
- Periodization models
- Sport-specific program design
- Recovery and regeneration
- Warm-up and cool-down protocols
Testing and Evaluation Topics (18%)
- Pre-participation screening
- Cardiovascular endurance testing
- Muscular strength and power testing
- Speed and agility testing
- Flexibility assessment
- Body composition assessment
- Test administration and protocols
- Data interpretation and program adjustment
Organization and Administration Topics (11%)
- Facility design and equipment layout
- Legal and ethical considerations
- Risk management and emergency procedures
- Professional development
- Athlete supervision ratios
- Equipment maintenance
- Record keeping and documentation