The Written Simulation…Gone With the Wind

That’s right…the written simulation has retired. It has left the building. Cashed out. However you want to say it, beginning May 1^st, the ACE Personal Trainer Certification Exam will consist solely of a 3-hour exam with 150 multiple-choice questions.

(Note: if you are taking the GFI, LWMC, or AHFS certification exam, then you can skip this post as the information only applies to those candidates taking the Personal Trainer certification exam)

But what does that mean?

Well, if you are currently studying for your personal trainer certification exam and have been preparing yourself to take the written simulation (doing sample problems, figuring out the technical approach etc.) then you can relax – that part of the exam no longer exists. If you are a candidate who is just starting to study for the personal trainer certification exam and have never heard of the written simulation…you can quit reading and use this time as a study break instead!

So why did we make this change? The exam’s multiple-choice questions were/are designed to test your ability to apply knowledge to determine the most appropriate course of action in a variety of personal training scenarios. We wanted to see if you knew what to do with a client, why you do it, and if it is a good decision.

The written simulation questions were developed to test your ability to apply what you have learned. I usually referred to them as your practical application section. With the written simulation you would use bits of information you’d learned to answer questions that related to the real life give and take of a client.

When ACE discovered was that the 150 multiple-choice questions on the certification exam already test your ability to apply your knowledge in practical situations. Not to mention that the technical aspect of taking the written simulation was challenging for both candidates and ACE.  So… we decided that the written simulation problems were no longer necessary.

But what if you still have a written simulation sample problem? (One of those booklets that come wrapped in plastic with a highlighter type marker.) Should you throw it away now?

Of course not! The written simulation sample problems are a great way to practice your understanding of the material. Remember how I always talk about comprehending the material rather than just memorizing it? You can use your written simulation sample problem to do just that.

But what if you never got a written simulation sample problem? Should you call in for one now? Nope. These are now discontinued items, meaning no longer available. But don’t worry, there are plenty of opportunities for practice questions.

Questions? Confusion or concern? Just give us a call and speak with one of our Education Consultants at 1-888-825-3636 x782.