NETA Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What is the last skill in the OARS framework?

1. Affirming

2. Reflective Listening

3. Open Ended Questioning

4. Summarizing

The correct answer is: Summarizing

The OARS framework is a vital communication tool often used in motivational interviewing, particularly in health and fitness settings. In this framework, the last skill, summarizing, plays a crucial role in helping clients consolidate their thoughts and feelings about their goals and progress. Summarizing involves restating or paraphrasing what the client has discussed during the conversation. This skill helps to ensure the client feels heard and understood, which can enhance their motivation and commitment to their goals. By summarizing, the trainer can also clarify key points, highlight the client’s strengths, and reinforce the direction of the conversation. This skill wraps up the discussion, provides a comprehensive overview, and encourages the client to reflect on what they have learned and how they can apply it moving forward. The other skills in the OARS framework, such as affirming, reflective listening, and open-ended questioning, each serve specific purposes within the conversation but do not conclude the interaction as strongly as summarizing does. Summarizing serves as a powerful closure that can ultimately lead to actionable insights for the client.