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In the OPT model, which phase comes immediately after Stabilization Endurance?
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Q1. In the OPT model, which phase comes immediately after Stabilization Endurance?
Correct answer: B. Strength Endurance
The OPT model progresses Stabilization Endurance, then Strength Endurance, then Muscular Development, then Maximal Strength, then Power.
Q2. What is the primary training goal of Phase 1 (Stabilization Endurance) in the OPT model?
Correct answer: A. Improve muscular endurance and joint stability using low loads and higher reps
Phase 1 emphasizes stabilization and muscular endurance, typically using lighter loads, controlled tempo, and higher repetitions to build a foundation of joint stability.
Q3. Which term describes the specific components of a training program, such as sets, reps, intensity, tempo, and rest, that are manipulated to create a stimulus?
Correct answer: C. Acute variables
Acute variables are the individual components of a workout, including sets, reps, intensity, tempo, and rest periods, that a trainer manipulates to produce a desired training effect.
Q4. In Phase 5 (Power) of the OPT model, resistance training is typically structured using which approach?
Correct answer: B. A superset pairing a strength exercise with a fast, explosive exercise at a lighter load
Phase 5 commonly uses supersets pairing a heavier strength movement with a biomechanically similar, lighter, explosive movement to develop rate of force production.
Q5. What best describes periodization in program design?
Correct answer: A. The planned, systematic manipulation of training variables over time to optimize adaptation and reduce plateaus
Periodization is the long-term, systematic planning of training variables to progress a client and avoid overtraining or plateaus.
Q6. The FITTE acronym used in program design stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, and which additional variable?
Correct answer: A. Endurance
FITTE stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, and Enjoyment in some models, but within OPT program design the fifth E most commonly cited for cardiorespiratory prescription is Endurance-related duration progression; the core exam-tested framework pairs Type and Time with progressive Endurance goals.
Q7. When cueing a client during a conventional deadlift, which instruction best promotes safe technique?
Correct answer: A. Keep the spine in a neutral position and initiate the movement by hinging at the hips
Maintaining a neutral spine and hinging at the hips protects the lumbar spine and allows the posterior chain to generate force efficiently.
Q8. What is the correct landing technique a trainer should cue during a plyometric box jump?
Correct answer: C. Land softly through the whole foot with knees and hips flexing to absorb force
Proper plyometric landing technique involves absorbing force through flexion at the ankles, knees, and hips with a soft, controlled landing to reduce joint stress.
Q9. When spotting a client performing a free-weight barbell bench press, where should the spotter primarily position their hands?
Correct answer: B. Near the outside of the bar, ready to assist under the bar path
A spotter should stay close to the bar path, typically with hands near but not gripping the bar unless assistance is needed, ready to help guide it back to the rack.
Q10. When progressing a client's balance training, which sequence reflects an appropriate increase in difficulty?
Correct answer: C. Stable surface with eyes open, then stable surface with eyes closed, then unstable surface with eyes closed
Balance training should progress from stable, eyes-open conditions to more challenging conditions such as closing the eyes and eventually adding an unstable surface, increasing proprioceptive demand gradually.
Exam facts and objectives sourced from the official NASM certification page. Last reviewed June 2026.
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