We often get asked how we’re different from other services or, more specifically, what strength and conditioning is. In an attempt to answer this, below is a high level overview of what strength and conditioning is, how we implement core concepts, and why we do it the way we do.

To start, strength and conditioning is an application of research backed sport science. It is meant to enhance movement, prevent injury, and increase general health. Though this training is most often seen and implemented in higher-level athletics, everyone can benefit from a well-designed strength and conditioning program.

With that, the program (exercises, sets, reps, percentages, etc.) is a key component to success. Effective programming focuses on progressive overload, specificity, and variation, which will improve overall performance and quality of lifestyle activities.

There are several physiological things that we would expect to see with a well balanced program:

• When resistance exercises are performed, similar to our strength and conditioning days, the body is placed under physiological stress where the nervous, immune and musculoskeletal systems are all working together–this causes adaptations to occur which will increase strength, power, and muscle mass.

• When higher intensity exercises are performed, similar to our metabolic workouts, the cardiorespiratory and cardiovascular systems are stressed thus improving heart health, overall. This type of exercise also has positive effects on bone, muscle, and the associated connective tissue.

At SLC Strength & Conditioning, these exercises (with varying sets, reps, and percentages) are programmed methodically into your workouts throughout the week. If attending a healthy balance of S&C vs. Metabolic Circuit days, the neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, endocrine, and cardiovascular functions that are stressed in the workouts, all contribute to increased muscle strength, power, hypertrophy, muscular endurance and motor performance; all of which will increase your overall performance or quality of life.

The scientific evidence behind strength and conditioning is important and abundant. If you’d like to continue reading up on this topic, links to research articles were included in your newsletter, or you may also reach out to any of the coaches; they have devoted their education to this material and would be happy to nerd out with you.