VendorsExamsEnterprise
Support
Request an ExamContact UsFAQ
ACSM-EP Verified 2026 Edition

ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist Practice Test

The ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) credential is for exercise science graduates who design conditioning programs for healthy and at-risk clients. Practice exams test fitness assessment methods, writing cardio and flexibility training plans, counseling clients toward behavior change, and managing program risk. It can lead toward the more clinical ACSM-CEP credential.

180 Total Questions
1 Included Version Get all versions for the price of one
English Edition
Launch Simulator Sample Questions
All-In-One Bundle
$79.99
$75.99
  • Interactive Simulator & AI
  • Detailed Explanations
  • Study, Timed & Flashcard Mode
  • Lifetime Access & Updates

Instant lifetime access • Secure checkout

Why Study with PlanetCert?

The Latest Questions

Practice questions and exam topics aligned with the current exam objectives.

Detailed Explanations

Go beyond the answer. Master the material with comprehensive learning and professional explanations for every concept.

AI

AI-Powered Insights

Personalized preparation guidance that adapts to your performance and identifies weak spots automatically.

Exam Information

Official specifications published by ACSM

Exam Format

Professional

Registration

Pearson VUE or online proctoring

Validity

3 years

ACSM-EP Exam Topics and Domains

ACSM-EP is organized into 4 weighted domains.

1

Health and Fitness Assessment

33%

Administer and Apply Preparticipation Health Screening Procedures

Professional standards of practice and preparticipation screening algorithmKey components of informed consent and health/medical historyLimitations of informed consent and health/medical historyCommunicating screening process and results to clients

Administer and apply preparticipation health screening procedures to maximize client safety and minimize risk

Determine Client Readiness to Participate in Fitness Assessment and Exercise Program

Cardiovascular risk factors and conditions requiring medical consultationPulmonary risk factors and conditions requiring medical consultationMetabolic risk factors and conditions requiring medical consultationMusculoskeletal risk factors and conditions requiring medical consultationRisk factors modifiable by physical activityClinical terminology and biomarkersRecommended plasma cholesterol levelsCurrent blood pressure guidelinesCurrent blood glucose rangesComponents of a health-history questionnaireAdministering preparticipation screening algorithm and recognizing disease signs/symptoms

Determine client's readiness to participate in a health-related physical fitness assessment and exercise program

Determine and Select Physical Fitness Assessments

Physiological basis of physical fitness componentsAppropriate testing protocols based on screening data and client goalsLimitations of different testing protocolsProper use of fitness testing equipmentPurpose and procedures of fitness testing protocolsTest termination criteria and post-test proceduresFitness assessment sequencingEffects of common medications and substances on exercise testingPhysiologic and metabolic responses to exercise testing with chronic diseasesModifying protocols for special populations

Determine and select physical fitness assessments for apparently healthy clients and those with controlled disease

Conduct and Interpret Cardiorespiratory Fitness Assessments

Submaximal and maximal cardiorespiratory fitness assessment protocolsBlood pressure measurement techniquesKorotkoff sounds for systolic and diastolic blood pressureBlood pressure response to exerciseHeart rate measurement techniques and exercise/recovery responseRatings of Perceived Exertion (RPE)Anatomy and physiology of cardiovascular and pulmonary systemsCardiorespiratory terminologyBasic pathophysiology of cardiovascular conditionsOxygen consumption dynamics during exerciseMethods of calculating VO2maxCardiorespiratory responses in conditioned vs unconditioned clients

Conduct and interpret cardiorespiratory fitness assessments

Conduct and Interpret Assessments of Flexibility, Muscular Fitness, and Neuromotor Skills

Common flexibility, muscular fitness, and neuromotor skill assessment protocolsStrength assessment methodsAnatomy of bone, skeletal muscle, and connective tissuesAnatomical terminologyPlanes and axes of movementCenter of gravity, levers, base of support, balance, stability, posture, and spinal alignmentLocation and function of major musclesJoints and their associated movements

Conduct and interpret assessments of flexibility, muscular fitness (including strength, endurance, power) and neuromotor skills (including balance, agility, proprioception)

Conduct and Interpret Anthropometric and Body Composition Assessments

Body composition assessment techniquesStandardized descriptions of circumference and skinfold sitesHealth implications of body fat distribution

Conduct and interpret anthropometric and body composition assessments

2

Exercise Prescription and Implementation

40%

Determine Safe and Effective Exercise Programs

Strength-, aerobic- and flexibility-based exerciseBenefits and precautions for exercise in healthy and controlled-disease clientsProgram development for specific client needsFITT principle applicationExercise session components and sequencingRecovery techniquesTraining principlesAerobic and anaerobic energy systemsSigns and symptoms of overtrainingCommon musculoskeletal injuries associated with exerciseAdvantages and disadvantages of exercise equipment

Determine safe and effective exercise programs to achieve desired outcomes and goals for apparently healthy clients and those with controlled disease

Implement Cardiorespiratory Exercise Prescriptions

Recommended FITT principle for cardiorespiratory fitness developmentExercise intensity measurement methodsAbnormal responses to exerciseMetabolic calculationsCaloric expenditure of exercise sessionsAnaerobic training principles

Implement cardiorespiratory exercise prescriptions based on current health status, fitness goals and accessibility

Implement Exercise Prescriptions for Flexibility, Muscular Fitness, and Neuromotor Skills

FITT principle for flexibility, muscular fitness, and neuromotor skillsSafe and effective muscular strength and endurance exercisesResistance training programs and modalitiesAcute and chronic training variablesTypes of muscle actionsSkeletal muscle fiber characteristics and sliding filament theoryStretch reflex and proprioceptorsPlyometric trainingContraindications and risks of muscular conditioning activitiesPeriodization conceptsProgramming intensity methods for resistance training

Implement exercise prescriptions for components of physical fitness based on current health status, fitness goals and availability

Establish Exercise Progression and Modification Guidelines

Basic principles of exercise progressionAdjusting FITT in response to conditioning changesPeriodic reevaluation to assess fitness changes

Establish exercise progression and modification guidelines for cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular fitness, and neuromotor skills for apparently healthy clients and those with controlled disease

Implement General Weight Management Programs

Exercise prescriptions for weight-related goalsEnergy balance and basic nutritional guidelinesWeight management terminologyCommon ergogenic aidsFuel sources for aerobic and anaerobic metabolismHydration before, during, and after exerciseRisky or ineffective weight loss aids and behaviorsKilocalorie levels of macronutrients and alcoholWeight classification position statements

Implement a general weight management program for apparently healthy clients and those with controlled disease as indicated by client goals and health needs

Implement and Monitor Exercise Programs for Clients with Controlled Disease

Preparticipation screening and FITT for clients with diseasesContraindications for exercise and test termination criteriaPathophysiology of diseases and conditions relevant to exerciseEffects of diet and exercise on blood glucose in diabetics

Implement and monitor exercise programs for clients with controlled disease and work closely with clients' health care providers, as needed

Prescribe and Implement Exercise Programs for Healthy Special Populations

Maturational changes across the lifespanFITT for children and adolescentsFITT for older adultsExercise recommendations for pregnant clients

Prescribe and implement exercise programs for healthy special populations (older adults, children, adolescents, pregnant clients)

Modify Exercise Prescriptions Based on Environmental Conditions

Effects of environmental conditions on physiologic responsesPrecautions and modifications for environmental exerciseRole of acclimatizationFluid intake during exercise in various environmental conditions

Modify exercise prescriptions based on various environmental conditions (altitude, variable ambient temperatures, humidity, air quality)

3

Exercise Counseling and Behavior Modification

20%

Optimize Adoption and Adherence Through Effective Communication

Verbal and nonverbal behaviors for positive reinforcementGroup leadership techniquesLearning preferencesCueing techniques for intrinsic and extrinsic focus

Optimize adoption and adherence of exercise and other healthy behaviors by applying effective communication techniques

Optimize Adoption and Adherence Through Behavioral Strategies and Motivation

Behavior change models and theoriesMotivational interviewing principlesBehavioral strategies for health behavior changeBehavior modification terminologyRole of affect, mood, and emotion in exercise adherenceBarriers to exercise adherenceIntrinsic and extrinsic motivation techniquesHealth coaching principles and lifestyle managementStrategies to increase non-structured physical activity

Optimize adoption and adherence of exercise and other healthy behaviors by applying effective behavioral strategies and motivational techniques

Provide Educational Resources for Healthy Lifestyle Adoption

Relationship between physical inactivity and chronic diseasesInterrelationship between fitness, body composition, stress, and healthStress management and relaxation techniquesCommunity-based exercise programs

Provide educational resources to support clients in the adoption and maintenance of healthy lifestyle behaviors and improve health literacy

Provide Support Within Professional Standards and Refer as Indicated

Side effects of common medications affecting exercise abilitySigns and symptoms of mental health conditions requiring referralTest anxiety and its effects on physiological responses

Provide support within the current industry and professional standards of practice and refer to other health professionals, as indicated

4

Risk Management and Professional Responsibilities

7%

Understand and Enforce Risk Management Guidelines

Safe handling and disposal of body fluids and employee safetyInsurance coverage for health fitness industryPreparticipation screening, medical release, and liability waiversEmergency action plan (EAP)Legal implications of safety procedures and documentationProfessional conduct and ethical practice standards

Understand and enforce risk management guidelines for a health fitness facility to reduce member, employee and business risk

Implement Emergency Policies and Procedures

Emergency procedures in health fitness settingsFirst aid for exercise-related injuriesResponsibilities and legal implications for emergency proceduresPotential exercise complicationsBasic life support, CPR, and AED techniques

Implement emergency policies and procedures

How do I earn this certification?

Passing ACSM-EP earns the ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) certification. It sits in the Exercise Science / Exercise Physiology track.

Next Level Options
ACSM-CEP - ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise PhysiologistWorks with patients who have chronic diseases and conditions using prescribed exercise and behavioral interventions

Practice with Precision

The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.

Launch Simulator

How to study for this exam?

The most effective way to prepare for ACSM-EP is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.

What's changed on this exam?

Current Status
  • ACTIVE
  • Last content update: 2025-07-10

Who should take this exam?

Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, Exercise Physiology, or Kinesiology from a regionally accredited institution
Current Adult CPR/AED certification
  • Review of ACSM's Resources for the Exercise Physiologist, 3rd edition
  • Review of ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 12th edition
  • Practical experience in fitness assessment and exercise prescription
All ACSM practice tests

Your Complete Exam Solution

Best-In-Class Practice Tests

Exam-style questions that match the format and difficulty of the real exam, updated regularly. Original material — not recycled dumps.

Topical Breakdown

Study by domain, pinpoint weak areas, and focus your time where it matters most. Every topic mapped to the official syllabus.

Flashcard Mode

Rapid-fire review to reinforce key concepts. Flip through questions and answers at your own pace before exam day.

See How You Compare Against Yourself

✕
✕
✕

Other Exam Prep

  • Outdated question dumpsRecycled, often inaccurate material
  • No explanationsMemorize answers without understanding
  • Static PDF filesNo interactive practice or feedback
  • Subscription feesRecurring charges, access expires
✓
✓
✓

PlanetCert

  • Verified, current questionsUpdated weekly to match live exam objectives
  • Expert-written rationalesUnderstand every concept, not just the answer
  • Session tracking & exam progressTrack every attempt, see your growth over time
  • Lifetime access, one pricePay once — updates included forever
CERTIFIEDACSM-EP

Study Naturally, Study Responsibly

Practice with exam-style questions and detailed explanations until you're ready.

Try Free Demo
Secure Checkout Lifetime Access

Common Questions

What is the ACSM-EP certification and who is it for?
The ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) certification is a professional credential from the American College of Sports Medicine designed for individuals with at least a bachelor's degree in exercise science, exercise physiology, or kinesiology. ACSM-EPs work with apparently healthy clients and those with medically controlled diseases to conduct fitness assessments and develop exercise prescriptions that enhance cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength and endurance, balance, and r
How many questions are on the ACSM-EP exam and how long do I have?
The ACSM-EP exam consists of 140 multiple-choice questions with a seat time of 210 minutes (3.5 hours). Of the 140 questions, 125 are scored and 15 are unscored pretest items that are randomly distributed throughout the exam and do not count toward your final score. You cannot bring any outside materials; a calculator and metabolic equations are provided within the exam.
What score do I need to pass the ACSM-EP exam?
You need a scaled score of 550 out of 800 to pass the ACSM-EP exam. ACSM uses a scaled scoring system where your raw score (number correct) is converted to a standardized score ranging from 200 to 800. This method accounts for slight difficulty differences between exam versions. You will receive your results immediately upon completing the exam via email from Pearson VUE.
How much does the ACSM-EP exam cost?
The ACSM-EP exam costs $460 for non-members and $350 for ACSM members. Retest fees are $235. ACSM also offers bundle options: the Prep Bundle (exam + prep course) is $459 for members ($649 non-members), and the Prep Bundle Plus (exam + prep course + practice test) is $509 for members ($699 non-members). Joining ACSM for the member discount can save you over $100 on exam fees alone.
What are the prerequisites to take the ACSM-EP exam?
To take the ACSM-EP exam, you must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in exercise science, exercise physiology, or kinesiology from a regionally accredited institution, plus a current adult CPR/AED certification. Starting in 2027, First Aid certification will also be required, and effective August 15, 2027, candidates will need to graduate from a CAAHEP-accredited academic program.
What is the pass rate for the ACSM-EP exam?
The national pass rate for the ACSM-EP exam was approximately 70% in 2024 according to the ACSM Certification Annual Report. Pass rates can vary significantly by institution; some university programs with focused preparation report pass rates of 90-100%. Thorough preparation using ACSM's official resources, including the Resources for the Exercise Physiologist textbook and the exam content outline, is key to success.
How do I maintain my ACSM-EP certification after passing?
After passing the ACSM-EP exam, you must earn 60.0 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) every 3 years, pay the applicable recertification fee, and maintain a current CPR/AED certification throughout your certification cycle. CECs do not carry over between cycles. ACSM accepts CECs from recognized fitness organizations such as ACE, NASM, and NSCA. You should retain all CEC documentation for at least one calendar year following renewal in case of audit.
What topics are covered on the ACSM-EP exam?
The ACSM-EP exam covers four performance domains: Health and Fitness Assessment (33% of scored questions), Exercise Prescription and Implementation (40%), Exercise Counseling and Behavior Modification (20%), and Risk Management and Professional Responsibilities (7%). The exam is based on the job task analysis found in ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 12th edition, and tests knowledge at three cognitive levels: recall, application, and synthesis.
What is the difference between the ACSM-EP and ACSM-CEP certifications?
The ACSM-EP (Certified Exercise Physiologist) works primarily with apparently healthy clients and those with medically controlled diseases, requiring a bachelor's degree. The ACSM-CEP (Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist) works with patients who have chronic diseases or conditions using prescribed exercise and behavioral interventions, requiring either a master's degree with 600 hours of clinical experience or a bachelor's degree with 1,200 hours of clinical experience. The ACSM-CEP is the
What changes are coming to the ACSM-EP exam in 2025?
Effective July 10, 2025, the ACSM-EP exam will align with the 12th edition of the Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (GETP 12). Key changes include broadened resistance training principles, guidance on identifying cardiac and pulmonary limitations during cardiopulmonary exercise testing, new sections on transgender individuals, POTS, SCAD, and ME/CFS, and expanded content on behavioral theories. Additionally, commonly used metabolic equations will be provided during the exam starti

Student Reviews

I had a very good experience with PlanetCert. The study material was well structured, easy to understand, and closely aligned with the exam topics. The practice questions were especially helpful in improving my understanding and building confidence before the exam. The overall process was smooth, and the quality of the content was good. I would definitely recommend PlanetCert to professionals looking for well-organized certification preparation material.
Jimmi T. Oct 2026 · via Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)
Perfect, very fast and useful
David F. Aug 2026 · via Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)
Really happy with this platform so far. Instead of just giving you the answers to memorize like most old school brain dumps, they actually explain the reasoning behind the correct choices. The exam simulations and flashcards have been super helpful for my study routine.
Sharanjit S. Jun 2026 · via Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)
User friendly, accessible! I love it.
Jenn K. Oct 2026 · via Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)
Most of the correct answers were answer 1 or A. It should be mixed up or at least have the option to randomize the order the answers appear. It did help me pass the exam without being a dump of the exam questions.
Scott S. Sep 2026 · via Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)
Really useful simulator, it's not as good as the official resources but still allows for multiple retakes, flash cards were useful, and allowed me to see my progress over time. Questions were challenging as well with detailed explanations
Mark R. Jun 2026 · via Trustpilot (opens in a new tab)