CPT NASM Certified Personal Trainer Exam Questions and Answers

The oxidative (aerobic) energy system is the primary energy source for prolonged, lower-intensity activities. Circuit training—when structured with moderate resistance and minimal rest between stations—elevates the heart rate for extended periods, relying heavily on the oxidative system for ATP production.

Hypertrophy and maximal strength training use primarily the ATP-PC and glycolytic systems due to higher loads and shorter durations. Balance training, unless sustained and aerobic in nature, does not consistently engage the oxidative system. Therefore, circuit training is the correct match.

The NASM CPT7 Study Guide describes the drawing-in maneuver as an activation technique to engage local core stabilizers such as the transversus abdominis, internal obliques, and multifidus. This involves pulling the navel in toward the spine while maintaining a neutral pelvis and spine.

The “bear down” cue is associated with the Valsalva maneuver, which increases intra-abdominal pressure but does not specifically target local stabilizers. “Retract” usually refers to scapular movement, and “brace” is more about global core stabilization involving simultaneous contraction of the abdominal and low back muscles. For training local stabilizers, the correct verbal cue is “Draw-in.”

The Rockport walk test is an appropriate submaximal cardiovascular assessment for seniors and individuals with joint issues such as arthritis in the knees. It involves a one-mile walk at the fastest comfortable pace and is used to estimate cardiorespiratory fitness without requiring high-impact activity. The NASM CPT7 guidelines recommend low-impact, steady-state tests for populations with joint limitations to avoid aggravating symptoms. Tests like the YMCA 3-minute step test require repetitive stepping that can strain arthritic knees, the Davies test is a high-intensity agility/coordination drill involving upper body movement (not suited for seniors with lower body arthritis), and the Shark skill test is a dynamic balance/agility assessment with hopping—highly contraindicated for knee arthritis. The Rockport test is performed on a flat surface, minimizing joint stress while still providing valid aerobic fitness data.

A goal of losing 20 lb in 30 days is unrealistic and potentially unsafe. NASM emphasizes setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely) to promote adherence and health.

The first step is to educate the client about safe weight loss rates (generally 1–2 lb per week) and adjust their expectations accordingly. Once realistic goals are set, smaller milestones and training/nutrition plans can be developed. Creating a metabolic workout or calorie deficit comes after ensuring the client understands what is safely achievable.

Skeletal muscle is organized in layers of connective tissue. NASM’s CPT7 Study Guide explains that the epimysium is the inner layer of fascia that directly surrounds an entire muscle, often referred to as “deep fascia”. This makes it the outermost layer covering the muscle as a whole. Beneath it, muscles are divided into bundles called fascicles, each wrapped in perimysium, and within those, individual muscle fibers are surrounded by endomysium. Thus, the epimysium is the correct choice when referring to the outermost covering of skeletal muscle.

The NASM CPT7 Study Guide emphasizes accountability as a key factor in helping clients adhere to training programs. Accountability involves tracking progress, checking in regularly, and creating a sense of responsibility for showing up and completing agreed-upon actions.

While forecasting, marketing, and SWOT analysis are useful for business operations and planning, they are not directly related to client exercise adherence. Accountability helps build consistency, reinforces commitment, and keeps the client engaged, which is essential for long-term success in fitness programs.

In the structure of a neuron, the cell body (soma) contains the nucleus and other organelles essential for cell metabolism and function. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide notes that neurons have three primary components: cell body, axon, and dendrites.

The axon transmits electrical signals away from the cell body, dendrites receive incoming signals, and the sarcolemma is the plasma membrane surrounding muscle fibers—not neurons. Therefore, the nucleus and organelles are contained within the cell body.

When a client’s arms fall forward during the Overhead Squat Assessment, NASM identifies this as an indication of overactive/shortened muscles (e.g., latissimus dorsi, pectoralis major/minor, teres major) and underactive/lengthened muscles such as the lower trapezius, middle trapezius, rhomboids, and rotator cuff. The lower trapezius plays a critical role in scapular depression and upward rotation, helping keep the arms aligned overhead. Weakness in this muscle allows the scapulae to tip forward, contributing to the observed compensation. Strengthening the lower trapezius improves shoulder stability and posture during overhead movements. This is supported in NASM’s corrective exercise strategies for the shoulder complex in the movement assessments section.

For clients with coronary heart disease, the NASM CPT7 guidelines recommend avoiding prolonged isometric holds because they can significantly increase blood pressure, placing unnecessary strain on the cardiovascular system. The study guide emphasizes adjusting tempo to reduce extended isometric contractions and focusing on controlled concentric and eccentric actions to maintain circulation and avoid excessive cardiovascular load. Recommended programming includes low-to-moderate intensity, gradual warm-ups, and monitoring of exertion levels, often using the talk test or RPE scale for safety .

According to the NASM CPT7 Study Guide, Zone Two in stage training is characterized by working just below the anaerobic threshold, where the body transitions from primarily aerobic energy production toward greater reliance on anaerobic systems. This zone corresponds to an intensity where the client’s breathing rate increases but is still manageable for extended periods. The guide explains that in stage training, Zone 2 is designed to improve the ability to sustain higher intensities for longer durations, enhancing lactate threshold and aerobic capacity. Training near the anaerobic threshold challenges the cardiovascular system while still being sustainable for a moderate duration, making it ideal for endurance development and preparing for higher-intensity efforts in Zone 3 .

The NASM CPT7 Study Guide states that one of the skeletal system’s core functions is to provide the rigid framework that supports the body and serves as levers for movement when acted upon by muscles. Specifically, “Human bones act as attachment sites and levers (rigid rods) to produce movement when muscles contract.” Muscles generate the force, but it is the skeletal structure—through the interaction of bones, joints, and connective tissues—that converts that force into purposeful motion. This lever system can be first-, second-, or third-class, with most human movements involving third-class levers. The other options describe the functions of different body systems: generating internal tension is the role of the muscular system, responding to external stimuli is primarily the nervous system’s role, and kinesthetic motor control involves integration between the nervous and muscular systems. Thus, the primary skeletal function relevant here is acting as levers in conjunction with muscle contractions to facilitate movement.

Synergistic dominance occurs when synergist muscles compensate for a weak or inhibited prime mover, taking over its primary function. In this case, the erector spinae—normally a spinal stabilizer—are performing hip extension instead of the gluteus maximus, which is the prime mover for that action.

The NASM CPT7 Study Guide explains that altered length–tension relationships and poor neuromuscular recruitment patterns can cause helper muscles to dominate, leading to inefficient movement and potential injury.

This is distinct from reciprocal inhibition (agonist-antagonist relationship), autogenic inhibition (GTO-mediated relaxation), and neuromuscular efficiency (optimal recruitment patterns).

The FITTE principle is a NASM guideline for designing safe and effective cardiorespiratory programs. FITTE stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, and Enjoyment. The “E” refers specifically to Enjoyment, which is the factor of choosing activities the client finds fun and motivating. The Study Guide highlights that enjoyment influences adherence; clients are more likely to continue a fitness program when they look forward to the activities. While “easy activities” or “encouraging others” are unrelated to FITTE’s framework, and “eating” pertains to nutrition, enjoyment directly addresses behavioral sustainability. By incorporating enjoyable elements, trainers increase the likelihood of long-term exercise adoption.

In the overhead squat assessment (OHSA), one common compensation observed at the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex (LPHC) is excessive lumbar extension, also referred to as “low-back arches.” The NASM CPT7 Study Guide lists this as an indication of overactivity in the hip flexor complex, latissimus dorsi, and erector spinae, and underactivity in the gluteus maximus, hamstrings, and core stabilizers.

Other options—knees moving inward (frontal plane), arms falling forward (upper body compensation), and feet turning out (foot/ankle compensation)—are observed in other kinetic chain checkpoints but not classified under LPHC compensations.

When conducting a fitness assessment—especially for older adults—NASM stresses the importance of gathering subjective information regarding the client’s medical history, chronic conditions, medications, and lifestyle factors. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide notes that subjective information “is gathered from the client, including health, medical, and lifestyle history” and is critical for risk stratification and tailoring safe exercise programs.

For older adults, this becomes even more important because the prevalence of conditions like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis increases with age. Knowing these details allows the CPT to adjust exercise intensity, movement selection, and monitoring protocols.

While body fat percentage, BMI, and postural alignment are valuable metrics, they are forms of objective information obtained through testing and observation—not subjective. Subjective health history is the first step in NASM’s assessment process, ensuring safety and compliance with medical clearance when needed. Therefore, for an older adult, identifying chronic medical conditions during the subjective intake is essential before moving to any performance or body composition assessments.

The ATP-PC (adenosine triphosphate–phosphocreatine) system is the body’s fastest method for regenerating ATP and is dominant during high-intensity, short-duration activities lasting about 10–15 seconds. NASM’s bioenergetics section notes: “Example exercises that predominately use the ATP-PC system include short sprints, Olympic weightlifting, jumping, and plyometrics.” Sprinting fits perfectly because it requires maximum muscular power output in a short time frame. Aerobics, circuit training, and marathons rely much more heavily on glycolytic or oxidative energy systems due to their longer duration and lower relative intensity. Thus, sprinting is the exercise in this list that predominantly uses the ATP-PC system.

In maximal strength training (Phase 4 of the OPT model), the NASM CPT7 Study Guide prescribes a repetition range of 1 to 5 to optimize maximal force output. This phase uses heavy loads (85–100% of 1RM) with longer rest periods (3–5 minutes) to promote neural adaptations, increased motor unit recruitment, and enhanced intramuscular coordination. The focus is on improving absolute strength rather than hypertrophy or muscular endurance.

In the pulling assessment, an excessive low-back arch indicates overactivity in the hip flexors and erector spinae. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide explains that these muscles contribute to anterior pelvic tilt and lumbar extension when overactive.

Underactive muscles in this scenario typically include the intrinsic core stabilizers and gluteus maximus, which are not adequately resisting the pull into lumbar extension. Other muscle groups listed—middle/lower trapezius, upper trapezius, and levator scapulae—are more relevant to scapular movement and postural compensations in the upper body, not lumbar extension patterns. Thus, the overactive muscles here are hip flexors and erector spinae.

NASM emphasizes that carbohydrates are the body’s primary and preferred source of energy for muscular exertion, especially during high-intensity exercise. The Study Guide notes: “Carbohydrates in the diet are broken down into glucose, which can produce ATP quickly via the process of glycolysis.” This rapid energy production is critical for resistance training, sprinting, and other activities requiring quick bursts of effort. While fats are a major fuel during lower-intensity, longer-duration exercise, and protein can be used during prolonged energy deficits, neither is as readily available or efficient as carbohydrates for muscular work. Water is not a macronutrient providing energy—it’s essential for hydration and metabolic processes but doesn’t yield calories. Because muscular exertion often demands immediate ATP, carbohydrates, via stored glycogen and blood glucose, are the key macronutrient fueling these activities.

NASM’s plyometric training progressions and regressions are based on the force and stability demands of an exercise. A box jump-up with stabilization requires explosive concentric force to jump vertically onto a platform, followed by an isometric hold. A box jump-down with stabilization removes the explosive vertical propulsion requirement and instead focuses on eccentric force absorption and landing mechanics, which generally reduces intensity.

Horizontal jumps, squat jumps, and transverse jumps with stabilization typically demand more power output or multi-planar coordination than a controlled step/landing from a box. Thus, among the listed choices, the box jump-down with stabilization is the regression because it lowers concentric demand while still training landing control and joint stabilization—making it safer for clients not yet ready for the more intense jump-up variations.

The NASM CPT7 Study Guide emphasizes that when a client has a large, long-term goal—such as losing 30 pounds in a year—the CPT should break this into achievable short-term goals that act as stepping stones toward the ultimate objective. This strategy aligns with the SMART goal-setting framework (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely), which NASM identifies as essential for adherence and motivation.

For example, a trainer might help the client set a goal of losing 2–3 pounds per month through consistent exercise and nutrition habits, which, when compounded over the year, leads to the desired weight loss.

While open-ended questions (Option B) can help explore motivation, and outcome goals (Option C) define the desired result, neither directly ensures the process is broken down into realistic milestones. Telling a client their goal is “unrealistic” (Option D) may damage rapport and is not in line with NASM’s client-centered coaching approach. Thus, creating short-term, realistic goals is the most effective way to keep the client engaged and progressing toward a big target.

NASM’s behavioral coaching guidelines emphasize using open-ended questions to build rapport, gather detailed client information, and promote self-reflection—especially for clients with a history of inconsistent exercise adherence. Open-ended questions cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no”; instead, they invite the client to elaborate on challenges, preferences, motivations, and barriers. Examples include: “What challenges have you faced in maintaining a workout routine?” or “How might you fit exercise into your current schedule?” This approach supports motivational interviewing, a coaching style NASM endorses for improving intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy. Closed-ended questions limit dialogue, and while educating about time management or the OPT model is valuable, it doesn’t first address the psychological and behavioral aspects that influence adherence. By starting with open-ended questions, the trainer can tailor solutions that resonate with the client’s personal circumstances and goals.

When spotting a dumbbell chest press, NASM recommends placing the hands at the client’s wrists to help control the path of the dumbbells without restricting elbow movement.

Spotting at the elbows or forearms offers less stability and could allow the weight to drift into unsafe positions. Holding the dumbbells directly can disrupt the client’s grip and balance. By spotting at the wrists, the trainer can assist only as much as needed while allowing the client to maintain proper form.

When shoulders elevate and the head moves forward during a pushing assessment, NASM identifies overactive muscles including the upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and levator scapulae. These compensations suggest dominance of neck and shoulder elevators combined with underactivity of stabilizers such as the deep cervical flexors and mid/lower trapezius. Corrective strategies involve inhibiting and stretching the overactive muscles, then activating the underactive ones to restore optimal pushing mechanics.

For clients with hypertension, NASM recommends low-intensity core stabilization exercises that avoid excessive isometric contractions of large muscle groups, avoid heavy loading, and maintain controlled breathing to prevent excessive blood pressure spikes. The prone isometric abdominal exercise (commonly known as a forearm plank) activates deep core stabilizers, such as the transversus abdominis and multifidus, without requiring high spinal loads or large dynamic movements. The Study Guide emphasizes that “stabilizers… contract isometrically to stabilize the trunk and joints as the body moves” and that core stabilization should be prioritized before progressing to more dynamic exercises. The other options, like two-leg floor bridge or marching, can be useful for core activation but may involve more hip movement and higher intra-abdominal pressure. Standing cobra is a postural endurance exercise for the upper back and shoulders, not specifically a primary core stabilization drill. The prone isometric abdominal exercise thus fits both the physiological safety needs for hypertension and NASM’s progression model.

NASM defines external feedback as information provided by an outside source — such as a trainer, mirror, video, or device — to help a client understand their performance. A heart rate monitor delivers real-time data from an external device, which the trainer can use to guide intensity adjustments. This differs from internal feedback, which comes from a client’s own sensory awareness (e.g., perceived exertion). External feedback tools are essential in monitoring physiological responses and ensuring clients work within safe and effective training zones .

The two-leg floor bridge is designed to activate the gluteals and hamstrings while keeping the lumbar spine neutral. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide cautions against overextending the hips, which causes excessive lumbar extension and can shift emphasis away from the glutes to the lower back.

Heels should be on the floor with feet hip-width apart, not together. Pointing toes up (Option A) is more relevant to hamstring isolation work. Relaxing the glutes (Option D) contradicts the purpose of the exercise. Therefore, the correct cue is “Avoid raising the hips too far off the floor.”

In a cable lift (a low‑to‑high diagonal pattern), the lower body drives the movement by extending through the ankles, knees, and hips to transmit force upward. At the end of this drive, the knees are in an extended position—makingextensionthe correct end‑range description. This aligns with NASM’s movement‑science framework for sagittal‑plane joint actions at the knee.

From the NASM CPT7 Study Guide’s movement section: “Movement is described in three dimensions that are based on planes, which include the sagi­tal, frontal, and transverse planes.” Within the sagittal plane, “Movements in the sagi­tal plane includeflexion and extensionand plantar flexion and dorsiflexion of the foot and ankle.” During a ground‑driven lift pattern, the body uses a closed‑chain strategy: “Closed‑chain movements anchor the body to the ground or immovable object,” which is typical when initiating powerful upward motions from the legs. NASM also describes how efficient force production unfolds: the “integrated performance paradigm” indicates that to move efficiently, “forces must bedampened (eccentrically), stabilized (isometrically), and then accelerated (concentrically).” In the cable lift, the knee flexes slightly to load (eccentric/stabilize) and thenextendsconcentrically toaccelerate the load upward. Because the knee’s sagittal‑plane action that completes the propulsion phase is extension, theend‑range position of the knees—after the drive is completed—isextension. Therefore, among the options provided,B. Extensionprecisely matches NASM’s definitions and movement sequencing.

In the single-leg squat assessment, inward movement of the knee (valgus collapse) indicates possible overactivity in muscles that internally rotate and abduct the hip, combined with underactivity in muscles that externally rotate and abduct the hip. NASM’s movement assessment guidelines identify the tensor fascia latae (TFL), along with the adductor complex and vastus lateralis, as common overactive contributors to knee valgus. The Study Guide links this compensation to “altered length–tension relationships” where overactive TFL can inhibit the gluteus medius and maximus, leading to poor hip stabilization. The valgus motion increases stress on the knee joint and the kinetic chain above and below it. The corrective strategy involves inhibiting and lengthening the overactive TFL through self-myofascial release and static stretching, while activating the underactive gluteal muscles and integrating functional movement patterns. In contrast, the gluteus medius and maximus are typically underactive in this scenario, and the VMO plays a role in patellar tracking rather than causing knee valgus.

Lower crossed syndrome (LCS) is a common postural distortion characterized by an anterior pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, and overactive/shortened hip flexors and erector spinae, with underactive gluteals and abdominals. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide identifies the rectus femoris—part of the quadriceps and a hip flexor—as one of the shortened muscles in LCS.

Static stretching is recommended for overactive muscles to restore proper length-tension relationships. The gluteus maximus and medius are typically underactive in LCS and should be strengthened, not stretched. The rectus abdominis is usually lengthened and underactive. Therefore, in LCS, the rectus femoris should be statically stretched.

NASM recommends that speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) training for seniors be safe, low-impact, and fun while still promoting movement efficiency, coordination, and reaction time. The “Red light, green light” drill fits this profile because it uses controlled start-and-stop movements that can be adjusted for speed and range of motion based on ability.

Hurdle stepovers, box drills, and mirror drills involve greater joint stress, faster direction changes, and higher impact, which may not be ideal for all senior clients unless they have advanced fitness levels. Thus, Red light, green light is the most appropriate SAQ drill for this population.

The third step in the Stages of Change model is contemplation. NASM describes this stage as when individuals are aware of the benefits of exercise and are thinking about starting, but have not yet committed to taking action. They often weigh pros and cons, and motivation is inconsistent. The sequence is: 1. Precontemplation, 2. Preparation, 3. Contemplation, 4. Action, 5. Maintenance. Correctly identifying the stage allows the trainer to use strategies like motivational interviewing to encourage commitment.

In Phase 5: Power Training of the OPT model, the recommended rest intervals during circuit-style resistance training are typically 0 to 30 seconds between exercises to maintain high intensity while challenging the neuromuscular system. NASM specifies that short rest intervals in circuit formats improve both muscular endurance and caloric expenditure, especially when alternating between strength and power moves. Although maximal power efforts sometimes require longer rest (1–5 min) for full recovery, in a circuit for Phase 5, the goal is to keep the heart rate elevated and transition quickly between paired strength and power exercises.

When instructing side lunges, NASM emphasizes using specific, safety-focused cues to maintain proper posture and joint alignment. The CPT7 Study Guide notes that spinal alignment should be maintained in a neutral position during all exercises to prevent excessive shear or compressive forces on the vertebrae and intervertebral discs.

For side lunges, the neutral spine cue ensures that the client maintains proper core engagement and avoids lumbar rounding or hyperextension, which can cause undue stress on the back. While “Start by standing with your feet together” (Option B) is an accurate setup detail, it’s more of a positional cue rather than an ongoing form-maintenance cue. “Land with your foot pointed in the direction you are stepping” (Option C) could help in some multi-planar movements, but for lateral lunges, the lead foot should typically remain pointed forward to emphasize frontal-plane loading. “Lunge as far as possible” (Option A) risks compromising alignment and safety. Thus, the most appropriate auditory cue is “Keep your spine neutral.”

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a height-to-weight ratio that provides a general indication of whether an individual falls into categories such as underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide defines BMI as “a measurement of a person’s weight in relation to their height” and notes that it is calculated by dividing body weight in kilograms by height in meters squared (kg/m²).

NASM emphasizes that BMI is a quick, noninvasive screening tool that can correlate with population-level health risks—such as increased likelihood of chronic diseases with higher BMI categories—but it does not directly measure body fat percentage or distribution.

Other measures, such as waist-to-hip ratio and circumference measurements, assess fat distribution and shape but are not part of the BMI calculation. While BMI cannot distinguish between fat and lean mass (e.g., athletes may have high BMI due to muscle mass), it remains widely used for public health classification and initial fitness assessments. Therefore, BMI specifically classifies health status based on the height-to-weight ratio.

NASM clearly differentiates between process goals (specific actions or behaviors) and outcome goals (the end result). Process goals focus on what you will do—the behaviors that lead to an outcome. The Study Guide gives examples such as “Jog for 45 minutes starting at 6:30 a.m. Monday–Friday” or “Strength training 5 days per week.” In this case, the client’s plan—“jog for 1 hour 3 days per week and attend two personal training sessions per week”—is a description of specific, repeatable behaviors, not the final achievement (e.g., losing 10 pounds or completing a race). Process goals are crucial because they are entirely within the client’s control, build consistency, and lead toward long-term success. NASM emphasizes that focusing on process goals can improve adherence and motivation, as progress is measurable by completion of the planned actions, regardless of the final outcome.

If a client’s hips drop toward the floor during push-ups, it is typically due to poor core stabilization, especially weakness in the abdominals (rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis, and obliques) and sometimes the glutes. These muscles stabilize the lumbopelvic-hip complex (LPHC), preventing excessive lumbar extension and anterior pelvic tilt. NASM emphasizes that the local stabilization system—including the transverse abdominis and multifidus—must contract isometrically to maintain a neutral spine. Strengthening these muscles through anti-extension core exercises (e.g., planks, stability ball rollouts) will help correct this push-up compensation.

“Synergistic dominance” is the NASM term for a neuromuscular compensation pattern in which helper muscles (synergists) begin to perform the work that should primarily be done by the prime mover (agonist). This happens when the prime mover is weak, inhibited, or placed at a poor length‑tension relationship. The NASM CPT7 Study Guide explains that“Synergists… assist agonists to produce a movement”and lists common examples (e.g., brachioradialis and brachialis assisting the biceps curl) — but when compensations occur, these assistants can end up taking over the job (). Related mechanisms in the guide that set the stage for synergistic dominance include“Altered length‑tension relationship… reducing the amount of force [a muscle] can produce”() and“Altered reciprocal inhibition… when an overactive agonist muscle decreases the neural drive to its functional antagonist”(). The guide also frames the broader issue as“Muscle imbalance… when muscles on each side of a joint have altered length‑tension relationships”(). In practice, this might look like the hamstrings or erector spinae doing too much hip‑extension work that the gluteus maximus (the agonist) should drive. Whilearthrokinetic dysfunctionrelates to joint surface motion,reciprocal inhibitionis the normal neural relaxation of antagonists during agonist contraction, andautogenic inhibitionis GTO‑mediated tension reduction — none of which by themselves name the compensatory takeover pattern. Thus, the best description of secondary muscles taking over for a weak prime mover issynergistic dominance.

NASM’s scope of practice clearly states that personal trainers cannot diagnose medical conditions or prescribe treatments. When a client expresses symptoms such as persistent hunger and fatigue, which could indicate various medical issues (including but not limited to diabetes), the correct and ethical response is to refer them to a qualified healthcare professional.

Saying “That means you haven’t eaten enough today” (Option A) is speculative and assumes a cause without evidence. Suggesting a possible diagnosis such as “consistent with diabetes” (Option C) steps outside the trainer’s scope of practice. Recommending performance supplements (Option D) without first ruling out underlying health issues is inappropriate and potentially unsafe. By encouraging the client to consult a doctor, the trainer remains within scope, ensures client safety, and upholds professional responsibility.