International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

Which of the following factors does the FITT principle not include?

1. Intensity

2. Time

3. Type

4. Target heart rate

The correct answer is: Target heart rate

The FITT principle is a foundational concept in designing exercise programs and stands for Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type. Each of these components plays a vital role in outlining a comprehensive physical training regimen. Intensity refers to how hard a person is exercising and is critical for determining the effectiveness of an exercise regime, impacting cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance. Time denotes how long the exercise session lasts, which is essential for meeting individual fitness goals and ensuring adequate workout duration. Type directs the choice of the activity being performed, whether it is aerobic, strength training, flexibility exercises, or others, and serves to meet the specific goals and interests of the individual. Target heart rate, however, is not one of the primary factors included in the FITT principle. Instead, it is often used as a guideline under the 'Intensity' component, helping individuals determine how hard they should be exercising to achieve specific health and fitness outcomes, such as improving cardiovascular fitness or burning fat. Therefore, while target heart rate can be an important measure for intensity, it itself is not one of the core components that make up the FITT principle.