JoeBrain…

I haven’t written an assignment, test or exam since my college days way back in 1992. And at that time, I was likely thinking/hoping/praying that I would never have to write another one. Ever again.

Today I wrote my Personal Training Specialist (PTS) certification exam. I have been studying occasionally, then sporadically, then intensely, then desperately, since completing my in-class PTS course in January.

I was given three hours to finish. The exam was made up of 100 multiple-choice questions, and a rather lengthy written case study analysis and evaluation. Since January, I had been dreading the written portion. Oh, I can write, but I was worried about the content, it’s format, and my base of knowledge, being rather new to the whole health and fitness industry.

My instructor suggested I write some sample case studies and submit them for his review prior to the exam. I did half of one, but was told my analysis was excellent, with no corrections required. Okay, that took a huge load off, allowing me to relax on that portion, and focus on nitty-gritty details like calculating training zones, cardiac output and body mass, memorizing names of muscles and bones, familiarizing myself with bio-energetics and cardiovascular systems.

For a girl who has historically seized up at the thought of an exam, I prepared myself very well, from Day One of the course. I considered every morsel of information an opportunity to grow and learn, remaining focused toward my intention and purpose. I encouraged my subconscious mind to absorb the information, such that it was available when I needed it.

And today, the information was available.

I soared through the case study in half the allotted time. Then tackled the multiple choice portion, struggling with fewer than a dozen of the 100 questions. I was mightily impressed with my memory and knowledge, and left the exam room 45 minutes ahead of schedule, feeling confident that I exceeded even my own ridiculously high expectations.

Stay tuned for my results.

[ Oh, it’s not over yet. I still have to receive my final case study, then write, prepare and execute my practical training exam accordingly. Now THAT will be fun! ]