This excerpt from NSCA's Guide to Tests and Assessments briefly discusses the method behind a lactate threshold test and the pretest considerations one might take prior to this test.
Personal trainersTSAC FacilitatorsCoachesTesting and EvaluationLactate ThresholdEnergy SystemsBlood LactateATP
Some research has found that static stretching can have detrimental effects on subsequent performance. This is not to say that static stretching should be eliminated from an athlete’s program, but it should be sensibly incorporated into the daily training regimen since chronic stretching can enhance the range of motion around a joint and potentially improve strength and power performance.
Personal trainersTSAC FacilitatorsCoachesExercise ScienceProgram designStretchingStatic Stretching
The loading intensity a person chooses depends on his or her goals and training status (i.e., whether the person is a trained athlete or a sedentary individual). Ultimately, the number of repetitions you can perform at a given intensity or load determines the effects of training on strength develop.
Personal trainersTSAC FacilitatorsCoachesExercise TechniqueProgram designIntensity1RMResistance Training
Traditional lower-body resistance exercise alone may not be an optimal means of developing agility. Further, the effectiveness of straight-sprint training on agility performance has not been well established. In contrast, jump training, including loaded jump squats and horizontal and lateral jumps, holds promise.
CoachesProgram designTraining for AgilityAgilityLifting for AgilityProgram Design
Periodization of training is based on the principle that different loads (e.g., light, moderate, or heavy) or power requirements recruit different types and numbers of motor units. Recruitment order is important from a practical standpoint for several reasons.
CoachesExercise Sciencekinetic selectstrength and conditioningstrength training
Periodization of training is based on the principle that different loads (e.g., light, moderate, or heavy) or power requirements recruit different types and numbers of motor units. Recruitment order is important from a practical standpoint for several reasons.
CoachesExercise Sciencestrength and conditioningstrength training
Osteoporosis and low bone mineral density (BMD) are conditions that affect millions of people, and the amount of people afflicted is on the rise. To potentially reverse this trend, personal trainers can provide group sessions of high-intensity progressive resistance training to increase BMD and prevent osteoporosis.
Personal trainersProgram designBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition and Disorder or DiseaseOsteoporosisBMDBone HealthGroup Training Sessions
NSCA Member Spotlight: Diane Homan shares her journey from club volleyball to coaching youth and professional athletes, built on NSCA credentials and community.
Personal trainersCoachesOrganization and AdministrationProfessional Development
NSCA Coach provides valuable takeaways for every level of strength and conditioning coach through quarterly, electronic issues. You can find scientifically based articles specific to a wide variety of your athletes’ needs with Nutrition, Programming, and Youth columns.
While a basic fitness assessment will always be a part of a comprehensive client assessment, there is an array of more sophisticated tests and measures that are available to the personal trainer today.
Personal trainersProgram designTesting and Evaluationfitness testinghow to measure fitnessFitness assessment