NSCF Certified Personal Trainer Practice Exam

The greatest determinant of the intensity of a strength exercise is closely tied to how the exercise is performed and the load lifted, rather than the aspects highlighted in the other options. Intensity is fundamentally defined as the amount of weight used or the degree of effort exerted during an exercise. Safety considerations, while critically important in the execution of strength training, do not directly influence the intensity itself.

Volume of training refers to the total amount of work performed (repetitions and sets), which can impact training effects but does not inherently define the intensity of the individual exercise session. Similarly, the type of exercise can influence muscle engagement and overall effectiveness but does not serve as a direct measure of how intensely an exercise is performed. Lastly, duration of exercise relates more to the length of the workout rather than the intensity at which the exercises are conducted.

In summary, while safety is paramount in strength training to prevent injury and ensure effective performance, the actual intensity is primarily determined by the load lifted and the effort put forth in a strength exercise.