The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) offers a Certified Personal Training program vital for a robust personal training career. Varsity Tutors will connect trainers with tutors to help them reach for their personal goals. NASM is the premier evidence-based certified personal training program founded on the proprietary Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model. Candidates looking to start a personal training business, or pursue employment in the personal training field, would greatly benefit from earning this certification. The NASM also offers specializations above and beyond the NASM-CPT necessitating extra NASM preparation classes. Varsity Tutors can help you determine what pieces of the exam you need to focus on to maximize your studying time.
NASM test preparation is most effective utilizing Varsity Tutors who will help you gain comprehensive knowledge of human movement science, functional assessment, and program design to help prepare you to pass the NCCA-accredited NASM-CPT exam on a personal level.
Before beginning NASM test prep, candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and Emergency Cardiac Care (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Certification. The Certification Candidate Handbook is a comprehensive overview of the NASM-CPT certification program and is required NASM test prep. By utilizing the services of Varsity Tutors you can determine what areas of the handbook are most important for you to concentrate on. The Candidate Handbook covers important topics such as eligibility requirements, the exam outline, expectations, and recertification.
Personal Trainers are health and fitness professionals who perform individualized assessments and design safe, effective, and individualized exercise and conditioning programs. NASM-CPTs will be prepared to design exercise and conditioning programs that are scientifically valid and based on clinical evidence. Varsity Tutors can provide guidance to help clients achieve their personal health, fitness and performance goals via the implementation of exercise programs and suggested lifestyle modifications.
By incorporating insights from leading sports performance professionals, researchers, and trainers, NASM tutors assisted in developing a wealth of user-friendly content, exercise technique videos, and updated scientific research in the topics discussed in the NASM courses. Below is a list of the some of the topics vital for your testing preparation.
NASM-CPT Topics (non-exhaustive list)
- Concepts and Structures of Anatomy and Functions of Exercise Physiology
- Functional Biomechanics
- Principles of Motor Development
- Hydration
- Common Nutritional Supplements
- Cardiorespiratory Assessments
- Static Postural Assessment
- Indicators that a Client's Condition is Outside Scope of Practice
- Flexibility Training Methods
- Resistance Training Methods
- Cardiorespiratory Training Methods
- Plyometric Training Methods
- General Adaptation Syndrome
- Principle of Variation
- Overtraining, Rest, and Recovery
- Osteoporosis Training Considerations
- Safe Training Practices
- Goal Expectation Management
- Professional Guidelines and Standards
The NASM-CPT is the main personal trainer exam. Once earning this, personal trainers can earn additional specialization certifications in corrective exercise or sports performance training. Before beginning NASM test prep, candidates should determine how they can best use their time and energy to feel prepared for the exam. After you pass the exam, you can be your own boss, set your own hours, and work in your gym clothes. Best of all, have the job security of working in a growing industry.
The systematic approach for designing exercise programs, taught during a NASM course, can help anyone reach their fitness goals from beginners to professional athletes. Personal trainers who complete the NASM test prep often earn more than their peers. This is not surprising considering employers agree that NASM-CPTs are better prepared to start their fitness career, noted in the results of a study conducted by MarketLab.
Utilizing Varsity Tutors for your test preparation can allow you to increase your confidence, build test-taking skills, develop strong study skills, and feel adequately prepared for the exam. Get in touch with us today so we can connect you with a tutor today.

Greg: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...others. I have a B.S. degree in Kinesiology from Indiana University - Bloomington. I have a decade+ of work experience in various careers including sales, coaching, healthcare, and the mortgage industry. All of my life experiences involve working with and helping people in different capacities. I want to help students learn and grow. I believe...
Education & Certification
- Indiana University-Bloomington - Bachelor of Science, Sports Communication
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- English Grammar and Syntax
- High School English
- Personal Finance
- +26 subjects

Mario: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
My name is Mario I. Hernandez, and I am a PhD student at Texas Tech University. I graduated with my B.S. in Kinesiology and M.S. in Clinical Exercise Physiology at Arizona State University. I am interested in exercise physiology, functional anatomy/kinesiology, and anatomy and physiology. I look forward to working with you!
Education & Certification
- Arizona State University - Bachelor of Science, Kinesiotherapy
- Arizona State University - Master of Science, Exercise Physiology
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Medicine
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Organic Chemistry
- +15 subjects

Staci: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...MS in Sports and Health Sciences through AMU and am currently enrolled in an MS in Nutrition through JWU. As an American Council on Exercise (ACE) certified Health Coach, I am passionate about helping others. Throughout my military career, I was responsible for teaching a variety of courses (including CPR and health and wellness) and...
Education & Certification
- Community College of the Air Force - Associate in Science, Emergency Management/Homeland Security
- American Public University System - Bachelor of Science, Health Sciences, General
- American Public University System - Master of Science, Health Sciences, General
- The Art Institutes International-Minnesota - Associate in Arts, Baking and Pastry Arts
- Johnson & Wales University-Online - Master of Science, Nutrition Sciences
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- Study Skills
- Other
- +2 subjects

Penny: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...I received my NASM certification in Personal Training in 2019, my NASM certification in Nutrition Coaching in 2020 as well as my Precision Nutrition PNL1 certification in 2021. I specialize in corrective exercise with an emphasis in slow motion, high intensity strength training. Since receiving my certifications, I have worked as a personal trainer and...
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- ARRT
- HWCCP - Health & Wellness Coach Certifying Examination Program
- Elementary School Writing
- +26 subjects

Arianna: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...in Anthropology and Biology. I am currently a research assistant in the Anthropology Department at the University of Amsterdam. Outside of that, I am a personal trainer (NASM certified and USAW certified). I have experience at a luxury gym (Equinox) in Manhattan and since moving to the EU have been training clients online and freelance....
Education & Certification
- Macaulay Honors College at CCNY - Bachelor in Arts, Medical Anthropology
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- High School Level American History
- High School English
- Spanish 1
- +22 subjects

Rashan: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...a variety of settings including home health, schools, inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have over 7 years of experience teaching occupational therapy coursework in postsecondary settings; five of those years were as a Program Director. Under my leadership, each cohort's NBCOT pass rate exceeded ACOTE's requirements. In 2017, I became a certified yoga...
Education & Certification
- The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga - Bachelor of Science, Psychology
- Belmont University - Doctor of Science, Occupational Therapy
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- OTR / NBCOT - Occupational Therapist - Registered
- NBCOT - National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy
- +31 subjects

Samantha: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...academy of sports medicine) and I am a certified corrective exercise specialist (CES) also through NASM. My specialty is muscles, kinesiology, and biomechanics. I have a lot of experience teaching and training kinesiology and love to help others understand the terminology and human movement. I am a firm believer every person learns in different ways...
Education & Certification
- Columbia College-Chicago - Bachelor in Arts, Fashion Design
- Logan University - Master of Science, Sports Medicine
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Science
- Professional Certifications
- +1 subjects

Chelsea: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...extremely passionate about helping people understand the body and how it works, either through teaching students so they are as prepared as possible for a career in healthcare or clients working towards the health of their body. In my spare time, I enjoy being outside in nature, hiking and camping as well as spending time...
Education & Certification
- Baylor University - Bachelor of Science, Health Sciences, General
- Texas Tech University - Master of Science, Exercise Physiology
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Chemistry
- Biostatistics
- +20 subjects

Erin: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...on to earn a masters of science degree from Neumann University in Sport Management as well as a K-12 health and physical education teaching certification from Eastern University. Additionally, I have an extensive background in exercise physiology and hold a national personal training certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. I am an instructor...
Education & Certification
- Wesley College - Bachelor of Science, Physical Education Teaching and Coaching
- Neumann University - Master of Science, Sports and Fitness Administration
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- PRAXIS
- Adult Health and Wellness
- Science
- +4 subjects

Camille: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...year student at Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine Program in Physical Therapy. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about all health sciences and certifications including: NSCA CSCS, NASM CPT, NREMT, Biology, Anatomy and physiology, Neuroscience, and psychology. I am a firm proponent of education, believing it...
Education & Certification
- University of Michigan-Ann Arbor - Bachelor of Science, Neuroscience
- Washington University in St Louis - Doctor of Medicine, Physical Therapy
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- NREMT - National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians
- EMT - Emergency Medical Technicians
- Middle School
- +13 subjects

Jennifer: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...curiosity and passion in those I teach. Current doctoral student at Georgia State University studying Exercise Physiology and Sport Nutrition. Current Strength and Conditioning and Sports Nutritionist coach. My future career direction is to education professionals and students about the vital importance of nutrition, anatomy/physiology, and exercise, to human health, well-being and performance.
Education & Certification
- Georgia College State University - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- Georgia College State University - Master of Science, Exercise Physiology
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- ACSM - American College of Sports Medicine
- Other
- Academic Coaching
- +13 subjects

Michael: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
Yeahhh Students, As a life long martial artist and student, I love to not only gain knowledge but to educate as well. My personal, professional and business mission statement is to Educate, Inspire and Improve lives. Looking forward to working with you :)
Education & Certification
- Stony Brook University - Bachelor in Arts, Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Stony Brook University - Master of Science, Nutrition Sciences
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- American Council on Exercise (ACE)
- International Sports Sciences Association
- Accounting
- +20 subjects

Errol: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...Memphis, and I received my Bachelor's and Master's in English with a focus on professional and technical writing. Since graduation, I have provided writing, editing, and coaching services to students, business owners, and nonprofit organizations. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English and the National Academy of Sports...
Education & Certification
- University of Memphis - Bachelor in Arts, English
- University of Memphis - Master of Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Essay Editing
- Science
- Middle School English
- +9 subjects

Haider: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...confidence is essential for their academic and personal growth. My role as a tutor in clinical settings has provided me with firsthand knowledge of the challenges and demands faced by students and professionals alike. This experience has further enhanced my ability to mentor and guide students effectively, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers....
Education & Certification
- Ayub Medical College - Bachelor of Science, Community Health and Preventive Medicine
- State Certified Teacher
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- ABS - American Board of Surgery
- LMSW - Licensed Master Social Worker
- CLS - Clinical Laboratory Science
- +590 subjects

Destiny: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...since January 2007, and I have enjoyed it since day one! Currently I am: 1. A product manager 2. A published author 3. A personal fitness and nutrition trainer 4. A seasoned tutor since 2007 5. An entrepreneur and business woman since age 9 6. Music teacher (Piano & Guitar) 7. Product Manager, Product Owner, &...
Education & Certification
- University of Georgia - Bachelors, 1. Public Administration, Policy, & Management 2. Psychology 3. Gender & Women's Studies
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- PRAXIS
- NAPLEX
- CAPM - Certified Associate in Project Management
- +578 subjects

Jeanette: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...the NATA-BOC, NATA, NASM-CPT, NASM-FNS, and NASM-CES exams on the first attempt. I know how to prepare, study, and pass professional exams! I currently assist with coaching a USATF XC & Track team; however, I miss teaching academically. I am excited to join the Varsity Tutor platform to teach and mentor students who are interested...
Education & Certification
- Xavier University - Bachelor of Science, Athletic Training
- Allegheny College - Master of Science, Physical Therapy
- Drexel University - Doctor of Science, Physical Therapy
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- MBLEX - Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination
- NPTE - National Physical Therapy Examination
- Study Skills
- +16 subjects

Shelby: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...Activity and Fitness Management. I am a ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist, and AFAA Group Fitness Instructor and have many areas of specialization. I have worked in the field for five years overseeing and mentoring numerous personal trainers, group fitness instructors and fitness specialists. I would love to help you reach your professional goal!
Education & Certification
- Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania - Bachelor of Science, Exercise Science
- Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania - Master in Public Health, Public Health
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- ACSM - American College of Sports Medicine
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Nutrition
- +5 subjects

Abby: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
It is my passion to learn and I strive to pass on the knowledge I have acquired in order help others progress and achieve their goals/dreams. I believe learning and a curious mind are two things that make this world a better place! I am excited about working with anyone and everyone who takes initiative...
Education & Certification
- Pepperdine University - Bachelor of Science, Sports Medicine
- Wingate University - Doctor of Public Health, Physical Therapy
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- College Algebra
- SAT Math
- SAT
- +16 subjects

Sara: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
...to help improve their English, be it with general speaking and fluency, or more advanced practice such as composition and especially with test prep. I take great pride in all I have seen my students accomplish in our time together, and I look forward to helping more students achieve their goals and improve themselves!
Education & Certification
- Miami University-Oxford - Bachelor in Arts, English
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- English Grammar and Syntax
- Professional Certifications
- SAT Reading
- +29 subjects

Melissa: Waterloo NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine test prep instructor
I am a NASM Master Certified Personal Trainer and an Exercise Physiologist with over 15 years experience in the fitness industry. My goal is to educate, motivate, and empower students to achieve success with NASM.
Education & Certification
- James Madison University - Bachelor of Science, Kinesiotherapy
- James Madison University - Master of Science, Exercise Physiology
Subject Expertise
- NASM - National Academy of Sports Medicine
- Professional Certifications