Exam Structure and Content Breakdown
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.
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
Sections you finish are checked off in the contents.