AFAA AFAA 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The Karvonen formula is used to calculate:
- Maximum oxygen uptake
- Target heart rate training zone (Correct answer)
- Body mass index
- Caloric expenditure per session
Correct answer: Target heart rate training zone
The Karvonen (heart rate reserve) formula calculates target heart rate by factoring in both maximum heart rate and resting heart rate.
Question 2: Which of the following best describes the principle of specificity in AFAA-based programming?
- Gradually increasing exercise load over time
- Training in ways that directly relate to the desired outcome (Correct answer)
- Providing rest periods equal to work periods
- Varying workouts to prevent boredom
Correct answer: Training in ways that directly relate to the desired outcome
Specificity means the body adapts specifically to the type of stress applied, so training should mirror the demands of the desired fitness goal.
Question 3: What is the primary purpose of the PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire)?
- Measure current fitness levels
- Identify potential contraindications before exercise (Correct answer)
- Determine caloric needs
- Assess muscular strength baseline
Correct answer: Identify potential contraindications before exercise
The PAR-Q screens for health conditions that may require medical clearance before a participant begins an exercise program.
Question 4: During step aerobics, the leading foot is defined as:
- The foot that bears most body weight
- The first foot to leave the floor
- The first foot to step onto the platform (Correct answer)
- The foot closest to the platform
Correct answer: The first foot to step onto the platform
In step aerobics, the leading foot is the first foot to contact the step platform at the start of a move.
Question 5: Which heart rate zone corresponds to approximately 50–60% of maximum heart rate?
- Anaerobic threshold zone
- Aerobic endurance zone
- Healthy heart / warm-up zone (Correct answer)
- Peak performance zone
Correct answer: Healthy heart / warm-up zone
The 50–60% maximum heart rate zone is often called the healthy heart or warm-up zone, ideal for beginners and recovery sessions.
Question 6: When teaching a group fitness class, AFAA recommends the instructor maintain which primary position relative to participants?
- Behind the group to monitor form
- Facing the group or at a 45-degree angle (Correct answer)
- On an elevated platform only
- Beside the highest-risk participant at all times
Correct answer: Facing the group or at a 45-degree angle
Facing the group or standing at a 45-degree angle allows the instructor to demonstrate, observe form, and maintain visual contact with all participants.
Question 7: Which of the following is an example of a closed kinetic chain (CKC) lower-body exercise?
- Seated leg extension
- Prone hamstring curl
- Standing squat (Correct answer)
- Supine leg raise
Correct answer: Standing squat
A standing squat is a closed kinetic chain exercise because the foot remains in contact with the ground, loading multiple joints simultaneously.
AFAA AFAA 3
The Karvonen formula is used to calculate: