Final Practical Test

Requirements for Participation in the Test

To participate in the practical test, participants must have successfully passed the online test prior to the start of the course. Participant eligibility is verified before the DNS-ST3 course via the database.

Practical Test Format

Testing is performed in pairs. Each participant has approximately 15 minutes. The practical test is divided into three parts:

• Assessment
• Corrective Exercise Prescription
• Application to Strength Training

1) Assessment

The participant randomly draws the name of an assessment. Their task is to explain what the test assesses, what they are observing, and then perform the test on their partner. During the test, the participant must describe their observations. 

Possible assessments include:

• Seated Diaphragm Test
• Supine IAP Test
• Arm Elevation Test
• Quadruped (Sit-Backs, Rocking, and Rocking into 6 Months Prone)
• Bear Position
• Squat Assessment
• Seated Hip Flexion Test
• Differentiated Bear Assessment
• 1/2 Kneeling Assessment
• 1/2 Kneeling to Stand Assessment
• Single-Leg Squat
• Tripod Assessment

2) Corrective Exercise Prescription

Based on the findings, the participant will prescribe DNS corrective exercises. The participant must also choose different exercises (positions) than the one used in the drawn assessment. The participant then performs the corrective exercise with their partner.

3) Application to Strength Training

In the final part, the participant proposes a strength training / training exercise that reinforces the previously corrected movement pattern. This includes an explanation of why that variation was selected and what modifications or cues will be used to ensure correct execution.

Additional Questions

During testing, additional questions may be asked focusing on practical and theoretical knowledge (e.g., options for modifying movement for a client with back pain, etc.).

Evaluation

The goal of the practical test is to assess whether course graduates can demonstrate:

• understanding of the principles of the drawn assessment,
• ability to describe what the assessment evaluates,
• recognition of basic (significant) findings,
• ability to correctly set up an appropriate DNS corrective exercise.

Unsuccessful Result

An unsuccessful result may occur if the participant:

• does not know the principles of the drawn assessment,
• cannot determine what the assessment evaluates,
• prescribes an inappropriate DNS exercise or performs it incorrectly.

Perfection or a “master” level is not required; however, a safe and competent level of knowledge and skill is expected.

Preparation Recommendations

To successfully pass the test, it is recommended to:

• become familiar with all assessments used in the course,
• practice performing the assessments with colleagues,
• be able to explain what each assessment evaluates and know typical DNS corrective exercises,
• develop the ability (in real client practice) to select appropriate strength and functional exercises for transfer into training,
• review the study materials and notes for DNS-ST3 before the course.