The use of exercise interventions to maximize athletes’ performance is a common practice in competitions. This systematic review aimed to compile research that explored the effectiveness of priming strategies to maximize physical performance in track and field. The literature search was conducted from PubMed and Scopus. One hundred eighty-two studies were assessed against the inclusion criteria: (a) minimum 1-year participation/competition experience; (b) randomized controlled trials with pre-post intervention outcomes; and (c) studies involving exercise interventions applied #6 hours before outcome measures were collected. Fifteen studies satisfied the criteria and were categorized according to the exercise interventions used (i.e., resistance training, plyometric/ ballistic training, resisted sprints, and modified warm-ups). Heavy-loaded resistance training (i.e., .85% 1 repetition maximum) and resisted sprints increased subsequent sprint performance. Plyometrics/ballistic training also positively impacted subsequent jumping (i.e., long jump) and throwing performance (i.e., shot put). Modified warm-ups (i.e., high-intensity sprints and heavier throwing implements) also improved subsequent running and throwing performance. Overall, exercise interventions performed at high intensity and low volume augment subsequent physical performance as close to 4 minutes before the event. However, a sufficient recovery interval must be considered for a positive performance response.

Castle View High School Strength and Conditioning Coach says science is leading to safer training methods being used in high school weight rooms.

Adam Feit, PhD, CSCS*D, RSCC, offers practical insight on understanding and motivating human behavior in Autonomy-Supportive Coaching: A New Perspective on Training Athletes. After this engaging video, you will be able to: Review the benefits of satisfying athletes’ and coaches’ basic psychological needs. Explain how specific coaching behaviors can help or hinder athlete and coach performance. Understand how to create an autonomy-supportive training and coaching environment.

Acclaimed Wisconsin-area high school strength and conditioning coach advises parents to ask these 10 important questions.

This system is designed to make it easier for you to develop effective and periodized exercise programs for your athletes and clients. From pre-formatted Excel spreadsheets with drop down options, to Quick Tip exercise videos with coaching cues, Program Design Essentials is your partner for professional-level training and coaching. Be sure to watch the video tutorial below and consult NSCA’s Foundations of Fitness Programming before beginning the process.

Joe Denk, a strength and conditioning instructor for the Navy SHAPE Program, discusses ways to integrate autoregulatory training and recovery systems into your training programs.

Looking to exhibit at an NSCA conference? Find all the information you need to know about NSCA National Conference, Coaches Conference, Tactical Annual Training, Personal Training Virtual Conference, and more.

Join the 2026 NSCA Training for the Endurance Athlete Summit in Tempe, AZ, on March 28. Explore endurance training performance, learn hands-on, + earn 0.8 CEUs.