ACSM Much easier than I thought it would be

by Cookie
(Iceland)

To pass this exam, you need to study intensely for about 1 1/2 - 2 weeks. Know basic anatomy (very rudimentary), know how people adapt to various modalities of training, know how to calculate target HR based upon % of HRR, know all of the risk factors for CAD, be able to classify individuals into risk categories, and know what is advised for individuals within the different risk strata.

I passed the test with a score of 675 out of 550, and I didn't even look at the sections in the book about human behavior or on spotting during exercises. 60 % of the personal trainer book concerns "motivating your client" "using psychology tricks with your client" "how to run a gym"...etc. do not waste your time memorizing this crap. Just memorize the portions of the text which are important: exercise physiology, exercise prescription, nutrition (to a limited extent), and clinical & medical considerations.

If you take my advice you will save yourself a lot of unnecessary study time, and you will pass the exam with ease.