A Survey of the Scientific Data and Training Methods Utilized by Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent to which scientific research influences college strength and conditioning coaching practices and to determine the training methods utilized. A total of 321 surveys were mailed to Division I strength and conditioning coaches, and the response rate was 42.7% (137 of 321 surveys). Results indicate that all subjects held a baccalaureate degree, the majority in a human performance-related field, and that 75% were Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certified. The respondents' most widely utilized professional resources were the Strength and Conditioning Journal (94%) and other collegiate coaches and programs (93%). Forty-seven percent of respondents indicated that other collegiate coaches and their programs were the most important sources of knowledge outside of formal education. The majority indicated that they used a periodization protocol (93%) utilizing multiple sets (97%), plyometrics (90%), explosive movements (88%), and Olympic lifts (85%). Respondents tend to rely on sources of information that may not be defined as scientific, as evidenced by the low priority given to peer-reviewed literature. Respondents also tend to employ the methods they utilized as athletes. Reliance on these sources may not take advantage of advances made through scientific research in exercise physiology, biomechanics, and more specifically the area of strength and conditioning.

Rationale and resources for teaching the mathematical modeling of athletic training and performance

“…While evidence-based exercise prescription is a noble goal, achieving it in practice is challenging. Collegiate strength and conditioning coaches, for example, rely relatively little on the scientific literature when devising their training programs (29). Resistance to evidence-based practice stems partly from many coaches and fitness professionals lacking the education to critically evaluate the scientific literature (37).…”

“…Therefore, the scientific literature inadequately addresses critical aspects of training planning such that knowledge must be derived from other means. Such means include anecdotes and experiences of other coaches or trainers, the internet, textbooks, past experience, and trial and error (29). None of these forms of knowledge pass through the rigors of peer review such that their veracity is less assured.…”

Survey of Utah High School Football Strength and Conditioning Coaches

“…With continued research done in the area of sport performance there has been a need for coaches with certification and a more extensive educational background. A minimum of a bachelor's degree in physical education or exercise science is occasionally preferred for high school positions and a master's degree is preferred for the collegiate and professional [5,7,8].…”

“…USA Weightlifting offers a sport performance certification and the CSCCa (Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association) also have their own certification that is specific to college coaches. The practices of high school strength coaches are greatly influenced by their college and professional counterparts [8]. With this guidance from college and professional coaches, the assumption would be that high school strength coaches would also have the same certifications and educational backgrounds.…”

“…Plyometric training, Olympic lifting, and Periodization are a few of the training techniques a coach may use. Many high school coaches gather their information on advanced techniques and methods from college and professional coaches and/or the Strength and Conditioning Journal, published by the NSCA [8].…”