ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ACSM Personal Trainer Certification Exam with interactive quizzes and comprehensive study aids. This quiz experience enhances your understanding of fitness concepts, exam structure, and key information you need to succeed.

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What waist-to-hip ratio indicates abdominal adiposity in women?

  1. Greater than 0.80

  2. Greater than 0.85

  3. Greater than 0.86

  4. Greater than 0.90

The correct answer is: Greater than 0.86

The waist-to-hip ratio is a significant indicator of distribution of body fat and is particularly useful in assessing risks associated with abdominal adiposity. For women, a waist-to-hip ratio greater than 0.86 suggests a higher risk for conditions associated with obesity, such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This measurement takes into account the waist circumference relative to the hip circumference, with an increase in the ratio indicating a wider waist relative to the hips, which is often associated with greater visceral fat accumulation. In contrast, a ratio above 0.80 or 0.85 does suggest an increased risk of health problems as well, but the threshold of 0.86 has been established as a more specific cutoff indicating elevated abdominal adiposity in women. Therefore, the significance of the 0.86 threshold exacerbates the health risks and reflects a more defined classification regarding health outcomes related to body fat distribution among women.