Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA) Practice Exam

What conditions must be met before recommending the Valsalva maneuver during resistance training?

1. The client will perform the bench press exercise

2. The client has exercise technique experience

3. The client does not have hypertension

4. The client is resistance trained

The correct answer is: The client does not have hypertension

The Valsalva maneuver is a technique commonly used in resistance training where an individual attempts to exhale forcefully with a closed mouth, thereby increasing intra-abdominal pressure. This maneuver can help stabilize the torso and provide support during heavy lifts. However, certain conditions must be met to ensure it is safe to recommend for a client. It is critical that the client does not have hypertension, as the Valsalva maneuver can significantly increase blood pressure temporarily. For individuals with hypertension, this increase could pose serious health risks, including increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Therefore, ensuring that a client is free from hypertension or any cardiovascular issues is essential before recommending the use of this technique. On the other hand, while the other options may seem relevant, they do not address the primary concern of safety associated with the Valsalva maneuver. Awareness of exercise technique or familiarity with resistance training is beneficial but does not mitigate the health risks for clients with elevated blood pressure. Likewise, the specific exercise being performed, such as the bench press, can influence the effectiveness of techniques but does not encompass the overall health considerations that should dictate the recommendation.