Free Practice Questions for NASM CPT Exam

The floor cobra is a corrective and postural exercise designed to strengthen the mid and lower trapezius, rhomboids, and rotator cuff muscles while promoting optimal scapular positioning. According to NASM technique cues, the client should lie prone, arms to the sides with thumbs pointing up, and focus on retracting (pulling together) and depressing (pulling downward) the shoulder blades. This encourages proper scapulothoracic motion and reduces overactivity of the upper trapezius and levator scapulae, which are common in postural distortions like upper crossed syndrome. The cue “relax your glutes” is incorrect here—glutes can remain gently active for pelvic stability. “Point your thumbs down” internally rotates the shoulders, counteracting the corrective intent. “Look up and lift your chest” risks cervical extension and lumbar strain rather than maintaining a neutral spine with scapular control.

Lipids—commonly referred to as fats—include triglycerides, phospholipids, and sterols. The NASM Study Guide specifies: “Lipids are commonly referred to as fats and include triglycerides, phospholipids, and sterols.” Triglycerides are the primary form of fat stored in the body and a major energy reserve, especially for prolonged, lower-intensity activity. Each triglyceride molecule consists of glycerol bound to three fatty acids. In contrast, glycine and amino acids are protein components, and polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates (e.g., starches). Lipids are energy dense (9 kcal/gram) and serve not only as a long-term energy source but also play roles in cell membrane integrity, hormone production, and nutrient absorption. Including triglycerides in the definition of lipids aligns directly with NASM’s nutritional science section.