What does a strength and conditioning coach do?

I'm passionate about fitness and considering a career as a strength and conditioning coach. What does their job involve, and are there specific certifications or education paths I should follow after high school?

A strength and conditioning coach is typically involved in the physical and performance development of athletes. They focus on improving an athlete's physical attributes such as strength, speed, agility, endurance, flexibility, and power to enhance performance in their respective sports. They also help athletes reduce their risk of injury and can work on rehabilitation following an injury.

To excel in this career, having a solid knowledge base of exercise physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and sport-specific training is crucial. These coaches typically design and implement training programs tailored to either individual athletes' needs or an entire team's requirements. They often work closely with athletic trainers and other healthcare professionals to ensure athletes are performing at their maximum capacity while maintaining a safe training environment.

Education-wise, most strength and conditioning coaches will have at least a bachelor’s degree in a field related to exercise or physical sciences, such as Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or Sports Medicine. It is increasingly common for professionals in this field to also hold a master's degree, particularly those working at the collegiate level or higher.

In terms of certifications, the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification administered by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is considered the gold standard certification for this profession. It requires a bachelor's degree and passing the CSCS certification exam. Additionally, the Strength and Conditioning Coach Certified (SCCC) certification offered through the Collegiate Strength and Conditioning Coaches Association (CSCCa) is another highly respected credential.

Do keep in mind that this is a highly hands-on role with an irregular schedule, often including early mornings, late evenings, and weekends to accommodate athletes' practice and competition schedules. If you’re passionate about helping others succeed in their athletics and enjoy the science behind physical performance, this could be a great path for you!