Strength and Conditioning
Strength and conditioning is a specialist applied science concerned with the development of physical performance through systematic exercise training. It draws on the principles of exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning and sports psychology to design and implement training programmes that enhance strength, power, speed, endurance, agility and injury resilience in athletes and physically active individuals. Strength and conditioning coaches work with elite and amateur athletes, sports teams, military personnel and increasingly in clinical and rehabilitation settings, applying science to the improvement of human physical capacity.
At the University of Bedfordshire, this three-year programme develops your understanding of the science and practice of strength and conditioning. You will study the physiological adaptations to training, principles of periodisation, nutrition for performance, movement analysis, testing and assessment, and the psychological dimensions of performance. The programme combines academic study with practical application, developing the ability to design and deliver training programmes and to monitor and adjust them in response to athlete needs and responses.
Bedfordshire's sports science provision has been recognised for the quality of its teaching.
Graduates in strength and conditioning work with professional and amateur sports teams, national governing bodies, sports institutes, military and defence organisations, universities and increasingly in clinical strength and rehabilitation settings. The role of the strength and conditioning coach has become well established across sports from football and rugby to athletics, gymnastics and combat sports. Many graduates pursue accreditation with the UK Strength and Conditioning Association or the National Strength and Conditioning Association, which are the recognised professional credentials in the field.
Postgraduate study in strength and conditioning, sports science or exercise physiology is a common route for those seeking academic or research careers in performance science.