International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

How should exercise intensity be measured to maintain cardiorespiratory fitness according to ISSA and ACSM?

1. 40% to 60% of VO2 max

2. 55% to 85% of VO2 max

3. 65% to 95% of VO2 max

4. 75% to 100% of VO2 max

The correct answer is: 55% to 85% of VO2 max

To maintain cardiorespiratory fitness, the correct range for exercise intensity is ideally set between 55% to 85% of VO2 max. This range corresponds to moderate to vigorous intensity levels and is recognized by both the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as effective for enhancing cardiovascular health and endurance. Exercising within this intensity range promotes optimal physiological adaptations, such as improvements in oxygen uptake, cardiovascular function, and overall endurance capabilities. Moderate intensity (55% to 70% of VO2 max) is accessible for most individuals and allows for longer durations of exercise, while vigorous intensity (70% to 85% of VO2 max) provides a greater challenge and is beneficial for those who have a higher fitness level. The other ranges provided do not align with the recommendations for maintaining general cardiovascular fitness in a broad population. The lower ranges would not adequately stimulate improvements in fitness for most individuals, while ranges approaching maximal effort could lead to overtraining and increase the risk of injury, especially for beginners or those not regularly engaged in vigorous exercise.