Basic and Applied Sciences and Nutritional Concepts
Core science you must be able to apply
Anatomy and kinesiology questions reward precision about planes of motion: sagittal (flexion/extension - biceps curl, squat), frontal (abduction/adduction - lateral raise), and transverse (rotation - cable chop). Know the three muscle actions - isometric (no change in length), concentric (shortening, acceleration), and eccentric (lengthening, deceleration) - and remember that the eccentric action produces the greatest force and is most associated with delayed-onset muscle soreness.
The length-tension relationship says a muscle generates the most force at its optimal resting length; the force-velocity curve says concentric force falls as shortening velocity rises, while eccentric contractions can exceed concentric force. Nervous-system content includes motor-unit recruitment and fiber types (type I slow oxidative, fatigue-resistant; type II fast glycolytic, powerful but fatigable). Bioenergetics: ATP-PC for roughly 0-10 seconds, glycolysis for about 10 seconds to 2 minutes, and oxidative metabolism for longer efforts.
Nutrition questions test macronutrient roles, calorie balance, hydration, and general protein needs (about 0.8 g/kg for sedentary adults, higher for active clients).
Traps: mixing up planes; calling the eccentric action the strongest shortening action; claiming spot reduction; assuming one energy system works alone. Rule of thumb: if the effort lasts under 10 seconds, answer ATP-PC; if it lasts over 2 minutes, answer oxidative.