NSCA CSPS case studies
NSCA CSPS · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The NSCA Certified Special Population Specialist (CSPS) is an advanced credential for fitness and allied-health professionals who design and deliver exercise programs for people with chronic disease, disability, or other conditions that require adaptation beyond a standard training template. It sits above entry-level personal training: candidates are expected to screen and assess, interpret findings, modify exercise selection and progression, coordinate with clinicians, and support lifestyle and weight-management behavior change within a clearly bounded scope of practice. The NSCA CSPS case studies are 5 cases and about 3,619 words.
1New Resistance Trainee with Uncontrolled Hypertension and Orthostatic Symptoms
A 68-year-old man with a 12-year history of hypertension wants to start resistance training to "keep up with his grandkids." His medications are lisinopril 20 mg daily and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg daily. At intake his seated blood pressure is 158/94 mmHg, and a repeat after 5 minutes of quiet sitting is 152/90 mmHg; resting heart rate is 76 bpm.
813 words, about 4 min2Type 2 Diabetes with Peripheral Neuropathy Starting a Strength Program
A 62-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes for 11 years wants to "tone up." Her medications are insulin glargine 30 units at bedtime, insulin lispro 6 units with meals, lisinopril, and atorvastatin. Her most recent HbA1c is 8.4%.
677 words, about 3 min3Osteoporosis with Vertebral Fracture History: Coaching the Hinge and Overhead Reach
A 71-year-old woman has a lumbar spine T-score of -2.8 and a T8 compression fracture three years ago. Her goals are to garden and lift 20-lb bags of soil.
736 words, about 4 min4Prediabetes, Obesity, and Rotating Night Shifts
A 48-year-old man has a BMI of 36.2 kg/m², waist circumference of 44 inches, and an HbA1c of 6.2%. He takes no medications and wants to lose 20 lb.
743 words, about 4 min5Heart Failure Client with Possible Volume Overload: Scope and Safety
A 58-year-old woman with HFrEF (ejection fraction 35%, NYHA class II) wants to join your small-group strength class. Her medications are carvedilol 12.5 mg twice daily, sacubitril/valsartan, furosemide 40 mg, and spironolactone.
650 words, about 3 min