What is Strength and Conditioning
All industries have a level of incomprehensible jargon. Where the area of Health, Fitness and Nutrition is different is that there are so many interchangeable terms, misused buzzwords and crackpot theories.
Strength and Conditioning (aka S&C) is one of those oft-misused and misunderstood ideas.
Let's break it down.
What is the difference between a Personal Trainer and a Strength & Conditioning Coach?
Personal trainers tend to work with individuals in a commercial gym setting. S&C coaches or specialists typically work with athletes either as teams or individuals.
These disciplines have a lot of crossovers - both need to have basic certifications, a good knowledge of training and the ability to teach. They need to be able to develop programs for the individual and have in-depth knowledge of the anatomy and nutrition theory.
The minimum certification for PTs in the UK is Level 2 - Fitness Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer qualifications. In Australia, it's Cert 3 and Cert 4.
Grace with the Aussie 7s squad, 2013 | Grace Brown Fitness London
S&C requires a minimum certification from UKSCA in the UK, ASCA in Australia, and NSCA in the US, but higher levels of education, such as sports science degrees or a Masters in S&C are common.
S&C coaches who work with athletes in a professional setting are likely to have at least a bachelors, if not a masters.
Are S&C coaches "better" than PTs?
Not necessarily. Just because a PT hasn't worked with athletes or have UKSCA qualifications doesn't mean they don't employ current scientific principles, like an S&C coach.
Do I need an S&C coach?
If you compete in sports (even if it's just recreationally) or are thinking about it, it might be good for you to work with someone who has worked with athletes before. A lot of the theory in S&C focuses on pre-hab and rehab and recovery to prepare you for your particular sport. Having said that, an experienced PT could be just as good.
How do I know if my trainer or coach is legit?
Check their qualifications - they should have the minimum certifications and ideally evidence of continuous education. Check the vibe you get from them - are they confident in their knowledge, are they asking questions and listening to you. Do have a consultation before you commit - even with all the qualifications in the world, if you don't feel comfortable with them, find someone else.
