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August 10, 2001
Article # 1 (Read about the series) - Download PDF
How to Choose a Strength and Conditioning Professional
by Craig Fava, PT, OCS, CSCS
What is a High School Strength and Conditioning Coach?
According to the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA),
a high school Strength and Conditioning Coach is typically a Certified
Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) who services all athletic teams
at the school. This individual is employed by the school and is often a
teacher or coach. She or he develops safe, sport-specific strength programs
for athletes that promote maximum strength, power, speed and endurance
in a minimum amount of time. This efficient training at school allows athletes
more time for academics or other non-sport related activities. The Strength
and Conditioning Coach works on an individual and/or group basis and together
with the head coaches, Athletic Trainers and other school personnel, develops
a program best suited for your needs. Strength and conditioning coaches
are not qualified or licensed to treat or rehabilitate an injury.
What is a Personal Trainer?
A Personal Trainer is also a fitness specialist, but is not employed
by the school. A Personal Trainer typically works one on one with an athlete
in a private setting. The athlete has to seek these services at a health
or fitness club. Personal Trainers carry certification such as the CSCS,
certified personal trainer (CPT), or Certified Strength and Training Specialist
(CSTS), by the International Weightlifting Association. They are also qualified
to develop sport-specific strength programs. These programs are developed
for improvement in all aspects of the athletes' performance including strength,
power, speed and endurance. Additionally, it is specific for the skills
of the athlete and demands of the sport. Personal Trainers are not qualified
or licensed to treat or rehabilitate an injury.
How to choose a Strength and Conditioning Professional and facility
outside of the School.
Your professional should typically have an undergraduate degree in
health or exercise science and/or a good knowledge of biomechanics (movement
science), anatomy, physiology, aerobic, anaerobic and resistance training.
It is best to seek someone with additional certifications such as a Certified
Strength and Conditioning Specialist by the NSCA or Certified Strength
and Training Specialist by the International Weightlifting Association.
He or she should be certified in CPR and first aid. Your professional should
be someone you trust, has good references, supervises your weight lifting
technique and does not push you through pain.
The exercise environment you select should be safe, clean, not overcrowded
and adequately equipped for your needs. The exercise facility should be
located close to home, work or school, because an easily accessible location
increases your ability and likeliness to attend sessions. You should research
pricing of different trainers and fitness centers to get the best financial
option for you. Finally, as when selecting any professional service, the
best means for selection is "word of mouth," a recommendation from several
people you and your parents know will be well worth it. Have fun developing
your strength, power, speed and endurance by selecting the professional
that best meets your needs! It can make a difference in your performance!
References
Baechle, T.R. Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning. Champaign,
IL: Human Kinetics, 1994.
Best, R. The High School Strength and Conditioning Professional: A
Job Description. Strength Cond J. 23(3) 7-10. 2001.
Information on
this website is from third party sources that we believe to be reliable.
However, we have not independently verified any of the claims, facts or
opinions contained in any such material. The owner of this website, and
its agents, employees, officers, directors and representatives therefore
disclaim any liability for any persons's reliance on this information,
and this information is presented without any warranty whatsoever. Before
making any change to training or treatment, or otherwise taking any action
in reliance on the information presented, an athlete should consult with
his or her parents, coach and physician.
For more information, or with questions, please email:
PaulR@PainRelief-PT.com
