ISSA CPT study plan
ISSA CPT · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Anatomy and Physiology
Label all major bones, joints, and muscle groups from memory on a blank skeletal chart
Explain the structure and function of skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle tissue in writing
Describe the sliding filament theory and the roles of actin, myosin, calcium, and ATP
Identify the primary muscles involved in the squat, hinge, push, pull, and carry patterns
Your checkpoint
A completed one-page anatomy reference sheet (joint types, muscle actions, movement-pattern muscle map) scored against a self-made 25-question quiz at 80% or higher
Anatomy and Physiology & Exercise Physiology and Energy Systems
Trace the path of blood through the heart and describe how cardiac output responds to exercise
Compare the acute cardiorespiratory responses to aerobic versus resistance exercise
Diagram the three energy systems and state the fuel source, duration, and recovery profile of each
Calculate ATP yield and time-to-fatigue for short, moderate, and long duration efforts
Your checkpoint
A hand-drawn energy systems timeline chart with at least six sample activities correctly placed by dominant system
Exercise Physiology and Energy Systems
Explain oxygen deficit, steady state, EPOC, and lactate threshold in your own words
Identify the muscle fiber types and describe their recruitment order during progressive loading
Describe hormonal responses to resistance training and their practical programming implications
Interpret VO2max, heart rate reserve, and MET values to prescribe aerobic intensity
Your checkpoint
A one-page summary sheet converting target intensities into heart rate ranges and talk-test descriptions for three hypothetical clients
Biomechanics and Kinesiology
Define and apply the planes of motion and joint actions to at least ten common exercises
Analyze levers, moment arms, and torque for a biceps curl, a squat, and a lateral raise
Identify common compensation patterns (lower-crossed, upper-crossed, knee valgus) and name the muscles typically lengthened and shortened
Describe the stretch-shortening cycle and apply it to plyometric exercise selection
Your checkpoint
A movement analysis table for five exercises listing joint actions, prime movers, plane of motion, and lever class, reviewed against course text
Program Design and Periodization
Apply the FITT-VP and OPT-model principles to build a full 12-week mesocycle
Sequence acute variables (intensity, volume, tempo, rest) correctly for each training phase
Design a linear and an undulating periodization example for the same goal
Justify exercise order and progression rules using stability and skill demand
Your checkpoint
Two complete 12-week programs (one fat loss, one hypertrophy) with phases, sets, reps, tempo, rest, and progression criteria
Client Assessment and Screening & Special Populations and Injury Considerations
Administer and interpret a PAR-Q+, static posture screen, and basic movement screen
Collect and classify client data using BMI, waist-to-hip ratio, body fat estimates, and blood pressure categories
Set SMART goals and outline coaching strategies for at least five behavior-change stages
Modify programming for two special populations (e.g., older adult with hypertension, client with low-back discomfort)
Your checkpoint
A completed mock client assessment packet including intake form, screen findings, risk classification, and written referral decision
Nutrition and Weight Management
Calculate BMR, TDEE, and macronutrient targets for three clients with differing goals
Describe energy balance, adaptive thermogenesis, and realistic rate-of-change expectations
Explain hydration, fiber, and micronutrient guidance and when to refer to a dietitian
Identify common supplements and evaluate their evidence and safety claims
Your checkpoint
Three individualized nutrition summary sheets with calorie and macro targets, plus a written scope-of-practice statement for nutrition coaching
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Business
State the scope of practice, liability, and insurance requirements for a certified trainer
Describe professional boundaries, confidentiality, and the referral network you would build
Outline client onboarding, pricing structures, and a basic retention system
Complete timed mixed-topic practice sets across all eight domains and review every missed item
Your checkpoint
A scored full-length practice exam log with a written remediation list for every domain under 80%
Milestones
Week 2: Score 80% or higher on a self-made 25-question quiz covering anatomy and the energy systems
Week 4: Explain any of the three energy systems and any major joint action aloud without notes in under two minutes each
Week 6: Complete a full mock client assessment, from intake through referral decision, in under 45 minutes
Week 8: Score 85% or higher on a timed full-length practice exam with no domain below 80%