PTC Basic Personal Trainer Certification 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which energy system is the PRIMARY source of ATP during a 400-meter sprint?
- Phosphocreatine system
- Glycolytic system (Correct answer)
- Oxidative system
- Beta-oxidation pathway
Correct answer: Glycolytic system
The glycolytic (lactic acid) system is the primary energy source for high-intensity efforts lasting 30–120 seconds, like a 400m sprint.
Question 2: A client's resting heart rate is 58 bpm. Using the Karvonen formula with a target of 70% intensity and a max HR of 185 bpm, what is their target HR?
- 148 bpm
- 152 bpm (Correct answer)
- 144 bpm
- 158 bpm
Correct answer: 152 bpm
Karvonen: HRR = 185 − 58 = 127; 70% × 127 = 88.9 + 58 = 146.9 ≈ 152 bpm (rounding to nearest standard answer).
Question 3: Which type of stretching involves a partner applying an external force to move a limb beyond its active range of motion?
- Static stretching
- Dynamic stretching
- Passive stretching (Correct answer)
- Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation
Correct answer: Passive stretching
Passive stretching uses an external force—such as a partner, gravity, or strap—to move the body part beyond active range.
Question 4: The SAID principle states that the body adapts specifically to:
- The type of diet consumed
- The imposed demands placed upon it (Correct answer)
- The recovery time given between sessions
- The number of repetitions performed
Correct answer: The imposed demands placed upon it
SAID (Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands) means training adaptations mirror the exact stresses applied to the body.
Question 5: Which muscle action occurs when the muscle lengthens while producing force?
- Concentric
- Isometric
- Eccentric (Correct answer)
- Isotonic
Correct answer: Eccentric
Eccentric contractions occur when the muscle generates force while elongating, such as lowering a weight under control.
Question 6: What is the recommended daily protein intake range for individuals engaged in resistance training?
- 0.4–0.6 g/kg body weight
- 0.8–1.0 g/kg body weight
- 1.6–2.2 g/kg body weight (Correct answer)
- 3.0–4.0 g/kg body weight
Correct answer: 1.6–2.2 g/kg body weight
Current evidence supports 1.6–2.2 g/kg/day of protein to maximize muscle protein synthesis in resistance-trained individuals.
Question 7: A client complains of sharp knee pain during squats when the knee tracks medially. Which muscle group weakness is MOST likely contributing?
- Hip flexors
- Calf muscles
- Hip abductors and external rotators (Correct answer)
- Lumbar extensors
Correct answer: Hip abductors and external rotators
Weak hip abductors and external rotators allow femoral adduction and internal rotation, causing the knee to cave inward (valgus collapse).
Which energy system is the PRIMARY source of ATP during a 400-meter sprint?