CSCS case studies
CSCS · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) is a credential awarded by the NSCA for professionals who design and supervise resistance-training and conditioning programs, most often in collegiate, professional, tactical, or private performance settings. It is distinct from a personal-training certification: candidates are expected to justify program decisions with exercise physiology, biomechanics, and nutrition science, and to coach and test athletes safely. The CSCS case studies are 5 cases and about 3,569 words.
1Ankle Sprain Return: What Actually Detrained Over Six Weeks
A 26-year-old male rugby forward (112 kg, back squat 1RM 185 kg, countermovement jump 58 cm, 10 m sprint 1.72 s) sustained a grade II lateral ankle sprain six weeks ago. Since week 2 he has lifted upper body twice weekly but has done no lower-body loading, plyometrics, or running.
698 words, about 3 min2Race Weight Request in an Athlete With Low Energy Availability
A 20-year-old female cross-country runner (168 cm, 56 kg) wants to lose 4 kg before the conference meet in six weeks. She trains 16 hours per week, often runs the 6 a.m.
691 words, about 3 min3Front Squat Faults in a Lifter Who Cannot Receive a Clean
A 24-year-old female weightlifter (165 cm, long femurs) front squats 95 kg but cannot receive a clean above 80 kg. In the front squat her heels lift at about parallel, her elbows drop as she descends, and her lumbar spine flexes in the bottom third.
759 words, about 4 min4In-Season Basketball: Three Games a Week and a Fading Jump Test
A college basketball team (10 rotation players) is entering a four-week stretch with three games per week, including two road trips with single-day turnarounds. The strength coach has two 40-minute weight-room windows per week and one 20-minute on-court slot.
718 words, about 4 min5Ninety Minutes, Four Tests, and a Match in 48 Hours
You have 90 minutes, 28 collegiate soccer players, four assistants, and four tests: countermovement jump on a jump mat, 10 m sprint through timing gates, the 505 change-of-direction test, and a 1RM back squat. The team plays a conference match in 48 hours.
703 words, about 4 min