FAQs

What is Strength & Conditioning?

Strength and Conditioning Coaches not only deliver the physical and physiological preparation of athletes, but also complete comprehensive plans and reviews to optimize specific sports performance outcomes.

To accomplish this, S&C Coaches will complete in-depth needs analysis’ of the specific physiological characteristics and biomechanical requirements needed for success in a given sport. This process then informs the planning of interventions necessary to maximize their opportunities for technical practice and competition success. 

What is Sport Science?

Sport science is the study of sport using scientific methods of inquiry, with the specific aim of inducing adaptations to human functional capacity to maximize sporting performance in competition. This is accomplished by converting data into information that supports decision making that may influence an athlete’s performance performance. Unlike exercise science, the fundamental objective of sport science is to maximize the performance potential for athletes to increase their likelihood of success.

How does one become a qualified S&C Coach and/or Sport Scientist?

Strength & Conditioning Coaches are typically required to have successfully completed a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology (or other related field) and a certification exam from a recognized governing body, such as the NSCA, UKSCA or ASCA. Many coaches are now required to complete a Master’s or PhD program to work at certain levels of sport. Sport Science is beginning to follow a similar route with certifications being provided by similar governing bodies, but has also been available as a specific stream in undergraduate and graduate programs.