NASM Open Book Exam Vs NASM Proctored Exam | Is A Non-Proctored NASM Test A BAD Thing For Trainers?!
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- Опубліковано 15 лип 2024
- What are your thoughts on the new open book exam from NASM?
Is it a good, bad, or neutral thing for the training industry? Do you plan on taking it yourself?
Make sure to let me know in the video comments! I appreciate having your perspective as well!
In case you didn't know, NASM has recently released a new option for completing their personal training program. This new option is a 100 question, open book exam that will give you, what NASM calls a "certificate," vs what you get for completing their proctored exam, which is a CPT "certification." Does that sound a little shady? yeah, probably.
This "certificate" that you get from completing the open book exam, is not NCCA accredited. Personally, I could care less if a certification is NCCA accredited, but many gyms and insurance companies do not feel that way. A significant number of places will only hire you with an NCCA accredited certification, which has left some ISSA trainers in a tough spot upon completing their certification. (ISSA is also not NCCA accredited)
Speaking of ISSA, I think it's pretty clear that NASM's main reason for offering this certification is a direct response to ISSA. ISSA has grown in popularity significantly over the last 5 years, and in my opinion, a significant amount of that growth comes from the fact that their test is open book.
Anyways, in this video we discuss all of the previously mentioned stuff in more detail, and we break down the NASM non-proctored or open book exam vs the NASM proctored exam in more detail as well.
Thanks for the support everyone! It's very appreciated!
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My biggest issue is that there will undoubtedly be many trainers taking the open book path and not knowing that it isn’t accredited.
Honestly, this is a great point and I wish I elaborated more on that in the video. I’m gonna pin this comment to the top because you’re 100% right.
hi could you elaborate on this, i rlly appreciate the heads up
@@MrMui The lack of accreditation means that you'll have a harder time being hired by gyms, getting covered by liability insurance, etc. People will assume (instead of reading details) that because it's a NASM certification, that it will take care of their needs when that might not be the case.
@@justincollins2804 Ah I see thank you. Do you know how this affects the CEU's, do we still need to be recertified every 2 years if its not accredited
Honestly, I wouldn’t have know if I didn’t watch this video. I believe this open book test is being advertised as to look the same as the official accredited test I see nowhere informing you it is not.
I don’t understand why they won’t give you multiple chances with the proctored exam. I got through the material in a couple months and passed the non-proctored exam for practice twice using notes and once not using them and did multiple practice tests. I passed the proctored exam the first time but I didn’t feel like a lot of the language was different (on the non-proctored and practice exams it would say “hamstrings” but on the proctored test it listed individual muscles. I generally knew what they were so I could answer the questions, but I get why that would cause issues). It seems like instead of offering a certificate for the non-proctored exam and giving you 3 tries for that, they could offer 3 for the proctored exam.. I’m sure people would put the same effort in.. but feel less nervous as they took the test. I made sure I could get over 90 multiple times on the practice exams before I went in for the proctored exam. That was the main thing that helped me I think.
Congrats on passing! I’ve personally never taken a proctored exam that included more than one attempt. I’m sure it largely has to do with money as they have to pay someone to proctor it.
Thank you for this detailed video. I was trying to understand the two paths. Going for proctored.
Glad it was helpful!
I was certified with NASM for years, but let it lapse since my career changed paths. My wife and I were going to take the open book exam just to quickly get it done with to get back into the fitness industry. But, you made such a great point about insurance coverage that I’m now pivoting to the proctored exam.
Thanks for the support! Ya I think going for the proctored exam will make the most sense for most people. The open book exam might end up being a backup option for many.
@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation appreciate your insight on the subject. Probably saved me a lot of trouble down the line.
I'm glad you made a video on this and I just subscribed.
I tried to critique the PTC on the NASM/Axiom channels but they keep deleting my comment, which only fueled me to spread more awareness.
I don't necessarily agree with your entire video and would go as far as to say people who can't pass proctured exams shouldn't be training people. Anyone with AI can easily pass the non-proctured exam blindfolded, so that non-accredited certificate has no value but the market will become more saturated with PTCs (it's essentially pay-to-certify) and generally clients won't be able tell apart PTC and CPT qualifications, so it just brings down the standards and reputation for actual CPTs.
I didn’t think about the AI thing tbh! That’s an interesting point! Thanks for adding!
As far as trainers not being able to pass the proctored test and getting into training goes, ya I also have mixed feelings on that. I wasn’t necessarily trying to take a side, just trying to relay the information.
Many thanks for the in depth analysis of NASM training programs versus other training companies. (Huh, did not know about ISSA…) I am one of those who have a hard time testing. I have other certified accreditations, but I want my PT one back. Yes, employers require it, as they should. Worked hard to pass the test years ago, life got busy and I allowed my accreditation to expire. Huge mistake, of course. Getting my life together wanting to get my - certified - accreditation back. Was considering the open book test. After listening to this analysis, will go for the proctored test, for sure. Thanks for breaking it down. When the “salesperson/representative” breaks it down, they are - selling - the product, as is their job. But I need to hear it from an objective viewpoint. I need to process the information and not be rushed into a decision. Have “liked” the video and subscribed to your channel. Look forward to more content from you. Many thanks.
Glad you found the video helpful! Thanks for your support!
I love the video man and you make a great point! Couple thoughts on my end, I totally agree with the point about some people are "bad" test takers but would make great trainers. As I for one have been competing and coaching for powerlifting for quite sometime but didn't take the test for NASM for the longest time because I knew I was awful at test taking. But personally I think its important to have proctored exams because it shows the "standard" the each company upholds and what to expect from each trainer. I likened the analogy to getting into a top college, if there were no SAT's, gpa requirements anymore it lowers the barrier to entry(making it not a top college anymore) thus making it easier to obtain. From a short term and financial perspective its a win but the long term repercussions can be severe. Lastly from a morale perspective if one achieves something through hardship the victory is so much sweeter and one will feel more fulfilled! Those are just my thoughts but great video, appreciate the insights!
Good thoughts and thanks for sharing! I agree with pretty much all of that! Unfortunately, while I’m not opposed to the open book exams, I can see them causing some lingering term issues. That’s not good because training has a number of problems already.
I feel for those who study hard and can't pass the exam. The open-book test makes a lot of sense for them. But I also fear we'll have people who will briefly skim the book over a weekend and take the exam and pass simply because they know how to look up information quick. And the fact that they have 3 opportunities to take that exam is a bit scary as well. We might have people working as trainers and touting their NASM credentials when their total study time is shorter than an Adam Sandler movie.
All legit testing to gauge ones knowledge should be proctored.....and not all should be personal trainers. This is fact.👌
Unfortunately, I agree with everything you’re saying.
Ya I’m torn on how to feel about it, but I definitely respect that opinion
They won’t stay training if they are uneducated. It will weed out the ones who don’t take it serious and make more demand for those who are more educated.
I feel like the accreditated part is fair due to the points you've made about cheating. But also I believe its still fine for others to take this if they are not confident without open book due to the trend in online training being way easier for both the trainer and clients
I have put a lot of time into studying and taken the NASM exam twice and have failed both times. I really feel I know the information I have a friend who ask questions and reviews with me and I have the correct answers so I have some kind of block that I can’t pass the exam. I took the un proctored exam and passed
with only checking the book for just a couple things. So it has given me confidence that I do know the information and moving forward working in a gym and getting some experience will go a long way with learning and scheduling to take the exam again and pass.
I hear where you’re coming from! Sometimes that big test just doesn’t go in right direction! I think this open book option will be a good way for you to get working and get that hands on experience
Take the practice test ALOT! Get consistent 100% scores. You’ll pass.
Maybe this isn’t the field for you. You need brains and Braun to be a good trainer. You maybe be a better car salesman.😂 Knowing you took the exam twice and failed to score 70 without the open book should be a RED FLAG for clients. …
Did you get the job with open book certificate ? In which gym and where
I crammed in one day 😂, because I forgot my test was gonna expire , did 12 hrs of studying in one day and stressed my self out but I passed
thank you
You're welcome!
Hi I'm not the best test taker in the world, so the open book just opening the door is a God send.
I do think for quality control purposes, the open book test should be proctored, I think taking away your phone and just being able to bring your notes is a fair trade off imo
Also being able to get experience in field will really help people like me pass the accredited exam, almost done with Issa and I'm going back to finish ACE next 😁
Honestly, I like the idea of only being able to use your notes! That might have been a good middle ground.
Thank you for this video.
It’s very helpful to see the difference of both exams since it doesn’t really specify on the website.
Does this mean that with the open book receiving the certificate doesn’t officially make a personal trainer?
I want to know the same
I would say it still does make you a trainer if you pass the open book exam. Unfortunately, it will probably limit who will hire you though.
That’s kind of frustrating I’ve failed the NASM three time and just passed it my last go around I had some many different panic anxiety attacks trying to get this done and did contemplate taking the Issa dam I guess me going thru that feels less rewarding but fuck it. It’s done on to the next certificate
Ps thank you for all your study materials it help
Congrats on passing!
Hey Jeff
Amazing content Even better timing lol.
I only studied with ur videos & did my exam last week ,failed by 4marks(Needed 70 got 66😅) & that was Proctored.
Next attempt wat shud i do?
Home or Proctored?
Thanks for the support! Sorry about your exam! I would probably attempt the proctored exam again. Those two videos were meant to be used alongside NASM’s material. I would definitely make sure you’re doing their practice tests and all of the other stuff the provider alongside the two videos.
I think this is a great idea for people like me who are scared to take the exam in front of a proctor.... perhaps providing this option would help more people gain the confidence to take the open book first then the proctored after.
I agree! The open book exam will be very useful to people who are in your situation!
@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation so I plan on hopefully leveraging this along with my Nutrition Coach and Womans fitness specially to online training/coaching, do you think this is a possible route for me even though I don't have any experience?
There's xanax, hydroxyezine, CBD isolate .etc...you have options .anxiety might be a red flag in this field. I would not want to know that my trainer battles anxiety. If you have "test" anxiety, you have over all anxiety. You just blame anxiety as a blockage to achieving standard scores on test. Get some help. It would be bad if you forget your meds one day and have an negative altercation with a client. Get the right help of yourself first before coaching/training others. I would not recommended you as a mentally fit trainer. Good luck.
Could you please make a review on the NFE certification (Nordic Fitness Education)? I'm considering NASM/ISSA/ACE, but also read good reviews on NFE, which is accredited in Europe. It seems that none of the three certifications are doing a good job explaining the technique and resistance training, so I'm still searching for other relevant and accredited options. I live in Europe. Thanks for your videos!
I’ll have to look into that certification! I haven’t heard of that one yet. Thanks for the suggestion!
The Canadian Society Of Exercise Physiology was proctored. I was hoping for open book. It was kind of a hassle during COViD and the exam was tough. Insurance coverage is good though..
Nice! It sounds like you did well! Any proctored exam should be good enough for the insurance companies as far as I know. It’s just the open book ones that could be an issue
Becoming a personal trainer should follow the same process as someone who is training to be a hair stylist
I think that’s a fair take
It honestly comes down to NASM saw the money and students leave for ISSA; students with testing anxiety or medical/cognitive issues move to ISSA. It will always be about that dollar dollar bill. Others will follow, just give it time.
Ya I agree. ISSA really grew a ton in a short period of time. I’m sure ACE is working on their version as we speak
I mean I would imagine there are many people who sign up for the course because it sounds like a cool job to have. But are very good at school and taking tests and pass no problem but also have never worked out in a gym or even know how to perform any resistance training exercises.
Yup there are definitely people like that as well
Is the open book another option to pay for? Needing to get the test done quickly, and want to go this route so I have a little more time to study for the closed book. Not sure where to go to take the closed book on the website.
I wish I had more answers regarding this. Unfortunately, NASM has been pretty quiet about it. You’d have to talk to someone at NASM specifically. I think any version of the course comes with the ability to do the proctored exam. I don’t know if you have to pay extra for the open book version.
What if I have a bachelors in health science of Athletic training and Rehab science, do you think insurance companies would still require me to have the ncca certification or can I go with the open book option.
You’d probably be fine with that. It all comes down to employers and what they prefer
Do the retests only apply to the non-proctored one? I have a package that includes 3 retests but now I'm thinking that's not useful unless it's for the NCCA version.
Honestly, I don’t know that off the top of my head. NASM often changes their rules or stance on things like that too so I would definitely ask them before doing anything
I just took the non-proctored exam. I made a 93. I didn't use the book. I confirmed with Google about 6 questions before I submitted the answer since I was actually taking it as a learning tool. I'm curious how much less difficult it is than the proctored version. I scared 84 and 85 on two practice tests without looking up any answers or confirming anything before submission. If the proctored exam is the same content, I would test tonight if I could, haha. If it's more difficult, maybe I should re-evaluate. The names of actual exercises were my biggest struggle on this test. I have licenses and board certifications in a medical specialty so I'm accustomed to testing.
I think the difficulty level is pretty much the same tbh. The only difference is that one is open book and one isn’t
i signed on to receive my GFI certificaition through AFAA & after paying for it, i was emailed stating they pulled their NCCA accreditation. at this point, would it matter whether i took the open book or proctored exam?
thanks,
cheri
Do you already have a base training certification in addition to that GFI certification? If you already have a base cpt certification that’s NCCA accredited it wouldn’t matter at all.
If you don’t have a certification that’s NCCA accredited then that could make a difference in terms of being hired in certain locations or insurance coverage, but it likely still wouldn’t matter in many locations.
I passed the CPR course/test and the non proctored exam. Do I need an in person CPR certification class before taking the proctored exam?
Good question! You might! You’ll have to check with NASM themselves on that. I would definitely do that before signing up for the exam
Can you get both ? Say I get the uncredited version first to work and then over the next few months take the proctored one?
Yup you can get both! You’ll likely have to pay extra to take both exams though
I spoke with a NASM representative & they said that their packages comes with both test..
does the non accredited certificate mean we dont need to get the 2.0 CEU's?
From everything I’ve seen you’ll still need the same CEU’s to maintain the open book certificate. I’m not 100% on that though since NASM hasn’t talked about it much yet
If I am passing the practice exams comfortably, with no use of book or google, is there any reason for me not to opt for the proctored?
If you can do that with all of the practice exams I’d say you could be ready for the proctored test. It’s definitely the better option if you’re ready
Do you know if a place like F45 would accept the non-proctored cert?
Not sure about that honestly. It also could vary location to location so I’d ask the manager at the one you’re thinking of working at
Im curious what the certificate looks like compared to the NCAA accredited one. Do they look the same without the NCAA seal? Or does it look completely different?
Good question! I’m wondering as well
@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducationlet me know when you find out please. Worse case, maybe I’ll call and just ask NASM.
Thanks for ALL YOU do bro 🤝🏽
I am confused now should I ask gym first will they hire open book certificate or not
If you are planning on working somewhere specific, it might be helpful to ask about what specific certifications and accreditation they require.
You can do the open book and the proctored later for a fee or not?
That’s a good question! NASM doesn’t make that information easy to find. Unfortunately, you’d probably have to ask them
I still have to pass non proctored exam at home right?
No, you can take that one wherever. You just need a laptop or computer.
I already passed the proctored one . Should I take the online non proctored one too ?
If you passed the proctored one, there’s no need to take a non-proctored one.
I don’t understand why there isn’t an option to take both
You can take both. I’m not sure whether or not that costs extra money though
I want to purchase a sort of healthy hat (I like the black one)
Stay tuned! Coming soon!
ISSA has always had an open book test and unlimited time! Honestly, who would really prepare if they knew it was an open book test and you could Google information!? That destroys the credibility of that type of certificate😂🤭
Unfortunately, there’s a good amount of truth to what you’re saying. It’s definitely the main reasons that many people don’t take ISSA seriously
@@SortaHealthyTrainerEducation you are exactly right
I had the ISSA cert and their Specialist in Sports Nutrition add on, and they both were lots of extra work. It wasn't just about taking a test where you could use a book if needed. I probably used it very little as I had studied and learned the information. But, writing papers and citing references and doing meal plans for fictional people was way more hassle than just taking a proctored test.
@@mikeswift6969 open book basically unlimited time, how does you know who truly wrote the paper?🤔🤑
@@mauricejenkins2819 I'm not saying other people wouldn't cheat on the exam, but for the amount of work necessary to get the certification, a person should have not even needed the book to pass.