NASM-CNC key terms

An imaginary plane that divides the body into left and right halves; movements such as flexion and extension occur primarily in this plane.

An imaginary plane that divides the body into front and back halves; movements such as abduction and adduction occur primarily in this plane.

An imaginary plane that divides the body into upper and lower halves; rotational movements occur primarily in this plane.

The movement of a joint, described by terms such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation; also called osteokinematics.

The principle that a muscle produces the greatest force when it is at its resting length, and less force when overly shortened or lengthened.

The relationship showing that a muscle can produce more force during an eccentric action and less force during a concentric action as velocity increases.

The way a muscle produces force: isometric (no change in length), concentric (shortens), or eccentric (lengthens).

The ability of the nervous system to recruit the correct muscles to produce and reduce force, and to stabilize the body in all three planes of motion.

The study of human movement, including the anatomical, biomechanical, and physiological factors that influence motion.

The alignment of the body when standing still, assessed from the anterior, posterior, and lateral views to identify musculoskeletal imbalances.

The alignment of the body during movement, assessed through transitional and loaded movements to identify compensations.

A transitional movement assessment in which the client performs a squat with arms overhead; used to observe dynamic posture and identify compensations.

A systematic evaluation of a client's posture and movement patterns to identify dysfunctions and guide program design.

A screening questionnaire used to identify individuals who may need medical clearance before starting an exercise program.

A form that collects information about a client's medical conditions, medications, injuries, and lifestyle to guide safe program design.

The process of categorizing clients by health risk to determine the appropriate level of medical supervision and exercise intensity.

A systematic, periodized training approach with five phases that progress from stabilization to strength and power.

The first level of the OPT model, emphasizing core stabilization, balance, and muscular endurance to improve joint stability and neuromuscular efficiency.

The second level of the OPT model, focusing on increasing muscle size, strength, and endurance through progressive resistance training.

The third level of the OPT model, emphasizing speed and power to enhance performance in activities requiring rapid force production.

The components of a training program that specify how exercise is performed: repetitions, sets, intensity, tempo, rest interval, volume, and frequency.

The principle of gradually increasing the demands placed on the body to stimulate continued adaptation and improvement.

The systematic planning of training into phases to optimize performance and prevent overtraining.

The principle that training adaptations are specific to the type of exercise performed.

Training that improves the function of the deep muscles of the core to provide stability and proper alignment during movement.

Training that improves the ability of the core muscles to produce and maintain force during dynamic movements.

Training that improves the ability of the core muscles to produce force quickly and explosively.

A technique of pulling the navel toward the spine to activate the deep core stabilizers and improve spinal stability.

The ability to maintain the body's center of gravity within its base of support, both statically and dynamically.

The body's ability to sense joint position and movement, which is essential for balance and coordinated movement.

An acronym for Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands, meaning the body adapts specifically to the type of stress placed on it.

A communication technique that involves fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the client says.

A trusting and harmonious relationship between the trainer and client, built through effective communication and genuine interest.

A client-centered counseling approach that helps clients explore and resolve ambivalence about behavior change.

A model describing the phases individuals go through when modifying behavior: precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance.

A person's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish a task.

The ability to understand and share the feelings of another person, which helps build trust and support behavior change.

The range of professional activities a certified personal trainer is legally and ethically permitted to perform.

The limits that define appropriate behavior and relationships between the trainer and client.

A set of principles that guide the professional conduct of fitness professionals, including integrity, confidentiality, and respect.

Legal responsibility for harm or injury caused by negligence or failure to act within the standard of care.