The CSCS® examination is based upon the critical knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA’s) needed to safely and effectively work as a strength and conditioning coach. These KSA’s are developed following a job analysis and are used to create the CSCS Detailed Content Outline (DCO). Therefore, the materials developed by the NSCA serve as the primary resources for preparation but they should not be considered as the sole sources for the exam.
This Study Guide provides you with the necessary information and recommendations for studying for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) Exam. This guide will present methods of preparation that can improve your chance for success as well as provide you with a way to self-assess your knowledge, skills, and abilities as required to practice as a professional in the field of strength and conditioning. Additionally, information is presented regarding the basis for the exam, exam development, exam format, method of scoring, and best recommendations for studying. This additional information will aid you in being better prepared for the exam.
Learn MoreThis is the essential text for those seeking to become strength and conditioning professionals. This comprehensive resource, created by 30 expert contributors in the field, explains the key theories, concepts, and scientific principles of strength training and conditioning.
Learn MoreThe Exercise Technique Manual for Resistance Training is a practical resource for current and aspiring strength and conditioning professionals and personal trainers. This full-color reference explains 70 resistance training exercises with step-by-step instructions, photos, and online video demonstrations.
Learn MoreDomain-specific practice questions are available to help candidates become familiar with the type, scope, and difficulty of the questions on the CSCS Certification exam. The questions assist in developing a better understanding of the content and help to assess a candidate’s relative strengths and weaknesses. Questions can be purchased by individual domains, section bundles, or as a complete bundle.
Learn MoreThe CSCS Essential Package contains the most common exam prep material used by candidates who have a background in the field to study for the CSCS Exam. Visit the NSCA Store for more details of what is included in the package.
Learn MoreThis study package contains the most common exam prep material used by candidates, plus the online study course and additional resource for exercise technique. This package is ideal for a candidate who is new to the field, does NOT have a background in the field, or just wants all of the study materials NSCA provides.
Learn MoreThe passing rate for the CSCS® exam is 63%. The NSCA Exam Prep Live Clinic series is designed to help individuals understand the most relevant content as it pertains to these exams. The NSCA offers CSCS® Exam Prep Clinics that are a blend of classroom lecture and hands-on training. Your time is valuable; spend it efficiently by focusing your studies on the most relevant content!
Learn MoreThis chart is a general comparison of the main study materials the NSCA recommends to help you prepare for the exam. This is not a comprehensive list. The Packages offered to provide the most relevant resources for exam preparation.
NSCA Membership can help you save on exam preparation materials and as well as $135 on the exam registration fee.
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CSCS Study Material Comparison
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A La Carte
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Essential Package
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Essential Plus Package
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CSCS Content Description Booklet
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$27.00
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$306.90
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$526.50
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Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning Textbook
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$109.00
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CSCS Complete Online Question Bundle
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$184.50
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Exercise Technique Manual
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$84.00
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Not Included
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Online Study Course (not sold individually) $269 combined price
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$160.00*
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Not Included
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TOTAL
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$564.50
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$306.90
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Member Savings**
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Save $61.80
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Save $54.90
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Save $60.30
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This self-paced course is recommended for those candidates who do not have an exercise science-related degree. The course content reflects the weighting and scope of the CSCS exam and is supplemented by content from the Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning. Featuring over 160 interactive learning activities, this online study course assists candidates in the studying process.
These comprehensive texts offer candidates and strength and conditioning professionals more extensive information on the topics as identified. Readers are provided guidelines for converting scientific research into practical application. Books can be purchased individually or as a bundle.
The NSCA, in collaboration with top subject matter experts, has developed a series of books designed to provide strength and conditioning coaches research-based recommendations, assessments, analysis, exercises and drills, and programming for a variety of performance factors. The Core; Endurance; Speed; Agility and Quickness; Power.