Certificate in Strength & Conditioning

Course Content

The six modules completed in this course include:

Modules covered:

1. Functional Screening
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   Module 1: Functional Screening

   This module introduces the coach to functional screening. It examines different approaches or schools of thought in this area. It traces the development of the area through to current and what may be considered state-of-the-art concepts and then introduces a range of basic screens – showing the learner how to set-up, conduct, and interpret the screens. It discusses the issues of compensations, weak links and several other aspects of this fascinating area. In addition it examines the scientific support for functional screening and training. By the end of the module the learner will:

   • Display a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the principles underpinning Functional Screening
   • Conduct functional screening tests for one or more athletes/players
   • Design effective development programmes for their athlete/players based on the screening outcomes
   • Appreciate the diverse approaches to screening for both sporting and non-sporting individuals

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2. Resistance Training 1
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   Module 2: Resistance Training 1

   This module introduces the coach to the area of Resistance Training in general. It features a historical description of the development of the field of study. It then examines the key principles upon which Resistance Training is based. The many and varied methods used in stability, strength, power and muscle mass development are described. The student will also acquire a range of skills including knowledge, know-how and competence within the area of Resistance Training so as to become a specialist coach of Strength and Conditioning. The practical areas covered are many and varied and include traditional circuit training, core stability, kettlebell, medicine ball, chain and other Resistance Training modes. By the end of the module the learner will:

   • Display a broad understanding of the Principles of Resistance Training
   • Appreciate the many and varied methods used to build stability, strength, power and speed-strength
   • Demonstrate an ability to coach a variety of resistance training methods
   • Understand and apply the concept of Periodisation in planning

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3. Resistance Training 2
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   Module 3: Resistance Training 2

   This module introduces the coach to weight training and weight lifting. It places particular emphasis on establishing excellent coaching skills. The content looks at the health and safety issues relating to weight training while the student is exposed to a detailed understanding of the practical coaching skills in weightlifting and weight training for sport. The module covers the many methods of introducing and teaching weightlifting and weight training to participants at the recreational level through to the elite level. Additionally, both the theory and practice of weight lifting and weight training for children is considered. By the end of this module the learner will:

   • Develop practical coaching skills in delivering weightlifting and weight training to the beginner and elite player or athlete
   • Become proficient in the application of the principles of weightlifting and weight training when planning and implementing conditioning programmes
   • Be proficient in organisation and planning weightlifting and weight training programmes of development for their chosen sport
   • Exercise creativity in delivering a programme of development within their training environment

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4. Advanced Resistance Training
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   Module 4: Advanced Resistance Training

   This module aims to build upon the comprehensive knowledge gained in the previous two ‘Resistance Training’ modules . This module will cover a wide variety of topics related to advanced resistance training. The module will cover a number of training methods and modes such as power training methods, kettlebell training, blood flow restriction training, and many more. The module will also examine resistance training for special populations such as the youth, the elderly and people with chronic health conditions like obesity. Finally this module will provide some nutritional information around resistance training performance and adaptation from resistance training. By the end of this module the learner will:

   • Display a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of Advanced Resistance Training methods, fitness and conditioning
   • Apply the Principles of Coaching and Training in their chosen sport
   • Critically evaluate the needs of his or her player or athlete

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5. Speed Development
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   Module 5: Speed Development

   This module introduces the coach to the multi-faceted area of speed development and in particular to the various components of speed. It ensures that the learner has a deep understanding of all the components and elements related to speed. The methods used to develop and advance speed using a variety of approaches are described and discussed. The practical coaching of speed is also a key feature of this module’s work. At the end of this module the learner will:

   • Screen/evaluate the athlete or player and interpret and present the findings and implications
   • Outline and explain the background and principles in planning and preparing speed training programmes
   • Demonstrate practical coaching competency in administering a speed training programme
   • Exercise appropriate judgement in planning, design and supervisory functions

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6. Endurance Development
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   Module 6: Endurance Development

   This module introduces the coach to endurance development. It considers the various components of endurance and examines the principles underpinning endurance development. The module will also describe the physiological basis for the development of endurance and the impact of concurrent training for other fitness components. The student will also study best practice for developing various types of endurance in general but specifically how to develop endurance for their own sport. At the end of this module the learner will:

   • Outline and explain the background and principles in planning and preparing endurance training programmes
   • Critically evaluate the different modes used for endurance development
   • Display specialised knowledge and competence in administering a practical endurance based programme
   • Recognise the limitation of current knowledge in endurance training

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Graduates of our Diploma in Personal Training and S&C, and our Certificate in Fitness in Conditioning are exempt from Modules 1-3.