We get a lot of questions from students about the Fitness Theory exam. So, I figured it would make sense to write an article to answer those questions! The top two things they ask are the topics it covers & the weightings (how much each topic is emphasized on your exam).
What are the Fitness Theory Exam Topics?
The Fitness Theory exams cover these 10 topics:
- Health-related benefits of physical activity
- Holistic approaches to physical activity & lifestyle
- Anatomy
- Movement mechanics
- Physiology
- Principles of conditioning
- Exercise analysis & risk management
- Basic nutrition/body composition
- Program planning
- Leadership skills
How is Each Topic Weighted on the Exam?
Of the 10 topics covered on the Fitness Theory exam, the weightings are as follows:
- Health related benefits of physical activity – 3.5%
- Holistic approach to physical activity & lifestyle – 3.5%
- Anatomy – 15%
- Movement mechanics – 25%
- Physiology – 21.5%
- Principles of conditioning – 10%
- Exercise analysis & risk management – 8%
- Basic nutrition/body composition – 7%
- Program planning – 5%
- Leadership skills – 1.5%
For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the topics with the heaviest weighting. In other words, be sure to know these topics well, as they’ll be tested the heaviest on the exam.
What Kind of Questions Will They Ask?
The exam is completely multiple-choice, and there are 60 multiple-choice questions on the exam. Visit here to find out the types of questions you are likely to see!
How Much Time Will I Get?
You have 60 minutes to answer 60 multiple-choice questions.
What is the Fitness Theory Exam’s Passing Grade?
You need an 80% to pass the exam.
How Do I Write the Exam?
In some provinces like BC, you can write the exam online in the comfort of your own home on your computer. Other provinces may require you to write in person. To write the exam, you would register with your province’s NFLA affiliate.
Need help?
For a more detailed breakdown, the BCRPA has released a handy Fitness Theory study guide. However, this guide is also applicable to applicants in other provinces writing the Fitness Theory exam (or Exercise Theory in some other provinces). The guide outlines the topics you need to know and goes into more detail on each topic. But if you still have more questions, we’re also always available to help – get in touch!
If you’re ready to start studying or need an extra boost, we have online Fitness Theory courses available with condensed study notes, detailed lectures, practice questions, and help from a qualified instructor anytime you need it.