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Notice: The NSCA website is scheduled to undergo system maintenance from 12:00 AM - 2:30 AM EST. During this time, there may be short service interruptions across the site and some parts of the site may not be accessible. We apologize for any inconvenience while we work to improve the website experience and security.

Progressive Strategies for Teaching Fundamental Resistance Training Movement Patterns

by Merrick Lincoln, PT, DPT, CSCS, Kaitlyn Ill, and Matthew Ibrahim, MS
Personal Training Quarterly August 2023
Vol 10, Issue 2

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This article provides the personal trainer with sample exercise progressions for teaching resistance training movement patterns along with practical strategies for instruction and reinforcement of proper technique.

Common resistance training exercises are loaded variations of generalizable multi-joint movements known as “movement patterns.” Proficiency in common movement patterns via resistance training may reduce injury risk, as poor technique is considered a risk factor for training injuries (10,12,21). Moreover, movement pattern proficiency allows for progressive overload via gradual addition of load or volume, which is key to the ongoing effectiveness of resistance training. Teaching fundamental resistance training movements to novice clients can be challenging. After pre-exercise screening and consideration of the client’s needs, the teaching process consists of selecting and instructing appropriate exercises, monitoring performance, and providing feedback. The process may be repeated for progressively more difficult exercise variations. The result is “learning,” or permanent improvement in movement pattern skill (1). This article provides the personal trainer sample exercise progressions for teaching resistance training movement patterns along with practical strategies for instruction and reinforcement of proper technique.

This article originally appeared in Personal Training Quarterly (PTQ)—a quarterly publication for NSCA Members designed specifically for the personal trainer. Discover easy-to-read, research-based articles that take your training knowledge further with Nutrition, Programming, and Personal Business Development columns in each quarterly, electronic issue. Read more articles from PTQ »

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Merrick Lincoln, DPT, PT, CSCS

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Merrick Lincoln is an Assistant Professor of Kinesiology at Saginaw Valley State University and a physical therapist in Midland, MI. He holds a Doctor ...

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Kaitlyn Ill

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Kaitlyn Ill is a Bachelor of Science Rehabilitation Medicine Major student at Saginaw Valley State University. She plans to attend a Doctor of Physica ...

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Matthew Ibrahim, MS, CSCS

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Matthew Ibrahim is an experienced Strength & Conditioning Coach, leader and educator with a demonstrated history and proven track record since 2007. C ...

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