Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Exam Description. The Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) exam is comprised of two sections that test the candidate's knowledge in the Scientific Foundations and Practical/Applied areas.

The following erratum, a correction to a published article, appears in the October 2015 issue of the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Headquarters features a 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art Performance Center designed specifically to train clients of all fitness levels—from youth and novice to tactical and elite. The NSCA Performance Center serves as a proving ground for the testing and application of scientific principles optimizing sport performance, and offers private, semi-private, and group training services for individuals and teams.

Purchase the 2025 RSCC renewal course. - Achieve a minimum of 70% to renew your RSCC designation and earn 0.6 CEUs towards your certification.

Get the Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fifth Edition — a trusted resource for strength and conditioning professionals and CSCS® exam prep.

Abstract submissions are open yearly from November to March (exact dates change annually). See the Abstract Submission and Presentation Guidelines for more information (below). Research abstract presentations are an opportunity to present current research findings to researchers and strength and conditioning professionals at the NSCA National Conference.

Keep up-to-date on National Strength and Conditioning Events, clinics, and conferences.

The CSCS examination reflects the most current and accepted KSA standards within the health and fitness industries. Further, the examinations may be developed from references that may be in addition to resources listed below. NSCA materials survey important content area, but are not a comprehensive study of the Exercise Science.

The NSCA Foundation awarded nearly $195,000 to 15 Grant Recipients in 2026 to support strength and conditioning research, coaching advancement, and equipment