Anatomy of Strength and Conditioning

INTRODUCTION The aim of strength and conditioning training is to enable you not only to handle a heavier load but also to carry that load in a better way. This is achieved by improving your aerobic capacity through the grouping together of various types of exercise. In plain speak, we are talking about enabling greater performance through increased strength, speed, capacity and accuracy. It is only through the continual application and eventual mastery of these four skill sets that an athlete can achieve his or her best. Strength training and conditioning, though different in definition and result, are reliant onone another and complement each other perfectly. A strong athlete may be able to lift an enormous load, but this is of limited use if he or she doesn't also have the conditioningand requisite lung capacity to go the distance in a chosen discipline. It also follows that anathlete with great stamina but lacking explosive power will not reach his or her full potential. Generally speaking, a bigger muscle tends to be a stronger muscle; however, one need not be overly developed to showcase unparalleled strength. This is because the best, most rounded sporting performance depends on the application of four major elements: strength, speed, capacity and accuracy. Combining strength training with conditioning work allows an athlete to master these skill sets; he or she will not only be able to handle a heavier load but will also develop greater aerobic capacity.