CSCS Exam Study Materials
The NSCA has developed a number of optional preparatory materials for individuals preparing for the CSCS exam. These materials are not required nor should they be considered as the sole resources for the exam. The purchase of these materials by exam candidates does not guarantee a passing score.
NSCA PRODUCED STUDY MATERIALS
- CSCS Study Guide | This guide will provide a better understanding of the exam, exam development, exam format, method of scoring, and best recommendations for studying.
- CSCS Practice Questions | Practice Questions help candidates become familiar with the type, scope, and difficulty of the questions on both sections of the CSCS Certification exam. If you prefer, you can purchase the Practical/Applied or Scientific sections separately. These are the same questions included in the other bundles/packages. They can be foundin the store > Exam Prep > CSCS.
- Exercise Technique Manual, 4ed | This book includes links to online videos demonstrating the performance of a variety of free weight and machine exercises.
- Essentials of Strength Training, 4ed | A great resource for students and practicing strength and conditioning professionals. This comprehensive resource explains the key theories, concepts, and scientific principles of strength training and conditioning as well as their direct application to athletic competition and performance.
- Individuals can select to bundle the text with the Human Kinetics Online study course that provides a guided reading plan.
CSCS Study mATERIAL COMBINATIONS
Looking for recommendations?
The study materials listed above can be ordered in the following combinations to fit individual needs. For the candidate with a degree and/or background in the field or to start with minimal resources: Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4ed, CSCS Study Guide, and all CSCS Practice Questions.
For the candidate that is new to the field or wants all available NSCA exam prep material: Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4ed, with Online Study Course and/or Exercise Technique Manual, 4ed in addition to the CSCS Study Guide and ALL CSCS Practice Questions.
Additional NSCA Resources
The following are additional resources that can aid in both exam and professional preparation depending upon your educational background and practical experience.
CSCS Exam Prep Live
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 are a blend of classroom presentations and hands-on training and can help you narrow your focus of study. Your time is valuable; spend it efficiently by attending a clinic with subject matter experts!
NSCA's "Guide To" Series - Tests and Assessments; Program Design; Sport and Exercise Nutrition
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.
NSCA's Sports Performance Series
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.
Other Resources
- Human Kinetics CSCS Enhanced Online Study Course. (Self-guided course)
- Applied Sport Mechanics 4th Ed. By Brendan Burkett
- Dynamic Human Anatomy 2nd Ed. By William Whiting
- Physiology of Sport and Exercise 7th Ed. By W. Larry Kenney, Jack Wilmore, David Costill
