Knowing the Exercise Theory exam topics and weightings is just as important as studying for the exam itself. If you spend too much time studying for one topic that only accounts for 1.5%, then that is wasted. This article will give you a breakdown of what is on the exam and how much it is worth.
Exercise Theory Exam Topics
The exam covers these 10 topics:
- Health-related benefits of physical activity
- Holistic approaches to physical activity and lifestyle
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Movement mechanics
- Principles of conditioning
- Program Planning
- Exercise analysis and risk management
- Basic nutrition and body composition
- Leadership skills
How Much is Each Exercise Theory Exam Topic Worth (%)?
The last thing you want to do while studying is waste your precious time on something that hardly shows up. A lot of students ask about this, and it is really important to know. Here is the breakdown of each topic:
- Health-related benefits of physical activity: 3.5%
- Holistic approaches to physical activity and lifestyle: 3.5%
- Anatomy: 15%
- Physiology: 21.5%
- Movement mechanics: 25%
- Principles of conditioning: 10%
- Program Planning: 5%
- Exercise analysis and risk management: 8%
- Basic nutrition and body composition: 7%
- Leadership skills: 1.5%
As you can see, the top 3 topics are anatomy, physiology, and movement mechanics. Ensure that you know these 3 topics very well, as they make up more than 50% of your test questions. This means that at least 30/60 questions are dedicated to these topics.
Exercise Theory Exam Topics: Types of Questions
Your exam will be multiple choice consisting of 60 questions. You will get anything from scenario-based to memory-based questions.
How Much Time Will I Get?
You will have 60 minutes to complete your exam with 60 questions.
What is the Passing Grade?
You will need at least 80% to pass the exam. That is equal to 48/60.
How Do I Write the Exam?
In some provinces like BC, you can write your exam online anywhere as long as it is quiet. You will need a computer or laptop with a functioning webcam to show your surrounding (online proctor). In other provinces, you may need to write in person. Simply get in touch with your province’s NFLA affiliate via email or phone. Check this article for registration details.
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