Training Method Education

            In my previous blogs, I talked about the conjugate, concurrent, 5:3:1, and sequential method. I gave information on what sports are best for each method. Where are these methods, strength and conditioning, and resistance training learned? In this blog, I am going to explain where these things are learned and practiced.

            Along with related majors at a university for strength and conditioning and personal training, there are also certifications for each. When you become certified, you strengthen your expertise. For example, the CSCS (certified strength and conditioning specialist), is a nationally recognized certification. These specialists are professionals who apply scientific knowledge to train athletes for the primary goal of improving athletic performance. They conduct sport-specific testing sessions, design and implement safe and effective strength training and conditioning programs and provide guidance regarding nutrition and injury prevention. Recognizing that their area of expertise is separate and distinct, CSCS consult with and refer athletes to other professionals when appropriate.1 This is one of the many nationally recognized strength and conditioning certifications.

            Another way to learn strength and conditioning methods and proper resistance training techniques is through personal training certifications, such as the ACE (American Council on Exercise) Personal training certification. Earning an ACE certification means meeting a standard accepted by other leaders in the healthcare industry. ACE goes above and beyond when it comes to taking care of our professionals. They advocate on your behalf every day—among policy makers and  partners who share our vision of eliminating the obesity epidemic, and among employers exploring workplace wellness solutions.2 With this certification, you can practice your skills with one on one or group personal training sessions.

            In addition to educating yourself with certifications, a lot can be learned from practicing your craft on your own. Trying different methods can help you determine what works best for your goals and others. This will allow you to succeed in your profession because you will be able to use that knowledge to help others toward their goals. There are cons and pros to all methods, so do not limit yourself to just one method. Mix it up, research, and find things that work for your goals as well as the goals of others.

1Bringing Together Top Strength and Fitness Professionals. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2016, from https://www.nsca.com/

2Personal TrainerCertification. (n.d.). Retrieved November 17, 2016, from https://www.acefitness.org/