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Cardiorespiratory Training Flashcards

6 cards from real NASM practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Cardiorespiratory Training flashcards as text
  1. What does the FITTE principle stand for in cardiorespiratory program design?

    Answer: Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, Enjoyment

    FITTE stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time, Type, and Enjoyment — variables trainers manipulate to design effective cardiorespiratory programs.

  2. Heart rate zone 2 (76–85% HRmax) in NASM's cardiorespiratory model is best described as:

    Answer: Moderate-intensity aerobic training approaching the ventilatory threshold

    Zone 2 represents a moderate-to-vigorous aerobic intensity where clients can speak in short sentences and are approaching but not exceeding the ventilatory threshold.

  3. Which cardiorespiratory adaptation is a result of long-term aerobic training at the cellular level?

    Answer: Increased mitochondrial density in muscle fibers

    Chronic aerobic training stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis, increasing the number and size of mitochondria in muscle cells to enhance oxidative capacity.

  4. During HIIT in Stage 3 of NASM's cardiorespiratory program, the work-to-rest ratio recommended for beginners to HIIT is typically:

    Answer: 1:3 (shorter work, longer rest)

    Beginners to HIIT start with a 1:3 work-to-rest ratio to allow adequate recovery between high-intensity efforts before progressing to shorter rest periods.

  5. Which cardiorespiratory training modality has the LOWEST impact on joint stress?

    Answer: Swimming

    Swimming is a non-weight-bearing activity where buoyancy supports body weight, making it the lowest-impact option and ideal for those with joint issues.

  6. For a client with a resting heart rate of 65 bpm and a maximum heart rate of 185 bpm, what is their heart rate reserve (HRR)?

    Answer: 120 bpm

    Heart rate reserve equals maximum heart rate minus resting heart rate: 185 − 65 = 120 bpm, which serves as the range for Karvonen formula calculations.