CSCS Exam Study Materials
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 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 Quizzes and Practice Tests | Individual domain quizzes and a full-length practice test provide candidates exposure to the content being assessed as well as the type and difficulty of questions found on the exam. You can purchase the Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied sections together or separately.
- 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.
Membership
NSCA Membership can help you save on exam preparation materials and as well as $135 on the exam registration fee.
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 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).
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
