Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA) Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of an outcome goal?

1. "I want to do 60 situps in one minute."

2. "I want to do my best to not eat before going to bed."

3. "I want to be the strongest bench presser in my gym."

4. "I want to lose 10 pounds of body fat."

The correct answer is: "I want to be the strongest bench presser in my gym."

An outcome goal is focused on the end result of a particular endeavor, rather than on the process or the specific behaviors that lead to that result. In this case, the statement about wanting to be the strongest bench presser in the gym clearly defines a specific achievement that reflects a final status or accomplishment. It emphasizes the overall outcome of increasing strength relative to others in a social setting, which is a primary characteristic of outcome goals. In contrast, the other statements illustrate different types of goals. One involves a performance goal that quantifies a specific task (like completing sit-ups) rather than the outcome itself. Another proposes a behavioral goal about nutrition habits, which focuses on a pattern of behavior rather than an end result. Lastly, while the statement about losing body fat does pertain to an outcome, it specifies a measurable target rather than a comparative achievement like the strength goal mentioned. Therefore, the emphasis on achieving a superior status among peers identifies the correct choice as an example of an outcome goal.