[j1992s]

I am a long-time fitness enthusiast who has decided to change primary careers from the financial services industry to work in this field full-time (I have worked in the fitness profession on a part-time basis for years now). I have attained some of the (apparently) lesser-respected fitness certifications along the way, but have always known that if I wanted to take this up a notch, I would really need to acquire certification(s) through organizations like NSCA, NASM, etc.

Here's my issue: My long-term goals and interests as a fitness trainer are in the area of sports-specific conditioning and strength-building. That suggests to me that I might be smarter to pursue the CSCS designation. However, I'm in need of some candid advice...from those who know...if the CSCS materials and exam can be mastered by an otherwise-bright, dedicated person without a degree or strong background in health/physical sciences (my degree is in psychology). I just don't want to order the materials only to find out that a devotion to regular studying is not enough, and that I really needed to be well-schooled in, and have a good working knowledge of, biology, physiology, etc. at the outset to even have a decent shot at passing the CSCS exam.

I apologize if this question seems a little silly to some, but as I am still a bit "on the outside looking in," I have to rely on the sage advice of others for some guidance.

Thanks so much in advance!

Jeff