ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What principle does SAID represent?

1. Systematic Adaptation in Daily Exercise

2. Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands

3. Similar Activities in Daily training

4. Standardized Assessment of Individual Development

The correct answer is: Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands

The correct answer, Specific Adaptation to Imposed Demands, refers to the principle that outlines how the body adapts specifically to the demands placed upon it through exercise. This principle emphasizes that the adaptations in the muscular, cardiovascular, and metabolic systems will closely match the type of stress those systems undergo during training. For instance, if an individual consistently performs resistance training, they will experience improvements in strength and muscle mass due to the specific adaptations to the demands of that resistance exercise. Conversely, if the training focus shifts to endurance activities, such as long-distance running, the body will adapt accordingly, enhancing aerobic capacity and muscular endurance. This principle is fundamental in designing exercise programs that aim to achieve particular performance outcomes or fitness goals, making it essential for personal trainers to apply this knowledge in their programming for clients.