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Key Facts: NASM CES Exam
100
Exam Questions
Multiple-choice
70%
Passing Score
NASM
90 min
Time Limit
NASM
$449-1199
Course + Exam
NASM packages
4
Content Domains
~25% each
Open-book
Exam Format
Online proctored
The NASM CES exam has 100 multiple-choice questions with a 90-minute time limit and a 70% passing score. Content areas include: Introduction to Corrective Exercise Training, Assessment (Static, Dynamic, Transitional), Corrective Exercise Techniques, and Programming Strategies. Open-book online exam format with multiple attempts available.
Sample NASM CES Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to review concepts for the NASM CES exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 200+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1What does the acronym "CES" stand for in NASM CES?
2What are the four phases of the Corrective Exercise Continuum in order?
3The kinetic chain concept describes the human body as:
4Which technique is used during the Inhibit phase of the Corrective Exercise Continuum?
5Static stretching is performed during which phase of the Corrective Exercise Continuum?
6Isolated strengthening exercises are performed during which phase?
7Dynamic movement patterns that teach proper coordination are used in which phase?
8What is the primary goal of corrective exercise?
9The LPHC (Lumbo-Pelvic-Hip Complex) is considered:
10Which body region is most commonly affected by dysfunction that cascades to other areas?
About the NASM CES Exam
The NASM CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist) certification provides advanced knowledge and skills to assess and correct movement dysfunction. The program covers human movement science, kinetic chain concepts, comprehensive assessments (static, dynamic, transitional), the Corrective Exercise Continuum (Inhibit-Lengthen-Activate-Integrate), and programming strategies for clients with muscle imbalances and movement compensations.
Exam sponsor: NASM / PSI. The requirements and fees below concern the certification or admission exam, separate from our free practice resources.
Questions
100 questions
Time Limit
90 minutes
Passing Score
70%
Reported exam pass rate: ~68-72%. estimated This describes exam candidates, not OpenExamPrep users or results from using our resources. Exam sponsor website
Fees, eligibility, and exam policies can change. Confirm them with the exam sponsor before applying or paying.
Our practice resources: topics covered
We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.
Introduction to Corrective Exercise Training
Human movement science, kinetic chain concepts, muscle imbalance patterns (upper/lower crossed syndrome), rationale for corrective exercise, the Corrective Exercise Continuum overview
Assessment
Static postural assessment, Overhead Squat Assessment, Single-Leg Squat Assessment, Pushing/Pulling Assessments, Gait Analysis, transitional movement screens
Corrective Exercise Techniques
Inhibit phase (SMR), Lengthen phase (static stretching), Activate phase (isolated strengthening), Integrate phase (dynamic movement patterns), body region-specific corrections
Programming Strategies
Client assessment protocols, program design for muscle imbalances, exercise progressions and regressions, special populations, professional scope of practice
Preparing for the NASM CES Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 70%
- Exam length: 100 questions
- Time limit: 90 minutes
- Exam / certification fees: $449-$1,199 Official sources
Using Our Practice Resources
- Work through all 200 available questions
- Review every answer and explanation
- Track weak areas and revisit them
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
NASM CES: Suggested Study Strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NASM CES certification?
The NASM CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist) is an advanced specialization that teaches fitness professionals how to assess and correct movement dysfunction. It covers human movement science, comprehensive assessments, the four-phase Corrective Exercise Continuum (Inhibit-Lengthen-Activate-Integrate), and programming for clients with muscle imbalances.
How many questions are on the NASM CES exam?
The NASM CES exam has 100 multiple-choice questions. You have 90 minutes to complete the exam and need 70% (70 correct answers) to pass. The exam is delivered online as an open-book format with remote proctoring.
What are the prerequisites for the NASM CES exam?
NASM recommends having a NASM-CPT certification or equivalent personal training certification before taking CES. You must be 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. The course and exam bundle costs $449-$1,199 depending on package options and promotions.
What is the Corrective Exercise Continuum?
The Corrective Exercise Continuum is NASM's four-phase systematic approach: (1) Inhibit - use SMR to reduce tension in overactive muscles, (2) Lengthen - static stretching to increase extensibility, (3) Activate - isolated strengthening for underactive muscles, (4) Integrate - dynamic multi-joint exercises to teach proper movement patterns.
How does NASM CES differ from NASM CPT?
NASM CPT provides foundational knowledge including basic corrective exercise. NASM CES is an advanced specialization that dives deeper into movement assessments, complex muscle imbalance patterns, and comprehensive corrective programming. CES builds on CPT knowledge for working with clients who have movement dysfunction or are in post-rehabilitation.
What careers can NASM CES support?
NASM CES supports careers in corrective exercise, post-rehabilitation training, injury prevention, and working with special populations. CES-certified professionals work in physical therapy clinics, sports performance facilities, corporate wellness, and private practice helping clients overcome movement limitations and reduce injury risk.