For clients focused on weight loss, NASM emphasizes maximizing caloric expenditure within each session.
The vertical loading resistance training system organizes exercises by alternating between different body parts in succession (e.g., upper body push, lower body pull, core, etc.), cycling through them before repeating. This minimizes rest periods for any one muscle group while maintaining continuous movement, which elevates heart rate and increases total session energy expenditure. The CPT7 guide contrasts this with horizontal loading, where one exercise is completed for all sets before moving to the next, which generally involves longer rest and lower overall caloric burn.