The NSCA has developed several optional preparatory materials for individuals preparing for the CSCS exam. However, the NSCA does not require, provide, or endorse any specific study guides, preparation materials, or review courses. Candidates who choose to use and/or purchase NSCA preparatory materials are not guaranteed a passing score on certification exams offered by the NSCA.
NSCA Membership can help you save on exam preparation materials and as well as $135 on the exam registration fee.
The following are additional resources that can aid in both exam and professional preparation depending upon your educational background and practical experience.
The NSCA Exam Prep Live Clinic provides exam candidates with study recommendations and a comprehensive review of the most challenging content found on the exam. These clinics can help you narrow your focus of study. Your time is valuable; spend it efficiently by attending a clinic with subject matter experts!
*Exam Prep instructors do not have inside knowledge of the exam, their courses are based off of the publicly-available detailed content outline (DCO). Instructors use their classroom and industry expertise to provide a comprehensive review of the DCO.
These comprehensive texts offer candidates and strength and conditioning professionals more extensive information on the topics as identified. Readers are provided guidelines for converting scientific research into practical application. Books can be purchased individually or as a bundle.
The NSCA, in collaboration with top subject matter experts, has developed a series of books designed to provide strength and conditioning coaches research-based recommendations, assessments, analysis, exercises and drills, and programming for a variety of performance factors. The Core; Endurance; Speed; Agility and Quickness; Power.