Nicole Rodriguez always knew she wanted to pursue strength and conditioning, but the extent of her journey — spanning 44 countries and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games — is nothing short of inspiring. During her time at Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning, Rodriguez recognized the value of experience and environment, later joining the EXOS International Program to coach globally. Eager to test her skills and help standardize coaching education, she sought out developing countries to advance their sport infrastructure. Rodriguez outlines key differences between U.S. and European approaches: while the U.S. excels in strength methodology, Europe enhances sport-specific application through tactical periodization. Additionally, she highlights Europe’s emphasis on rehabilitation and an “inverse relationship” between time in the weight room versus pitch-side with sport coaches. Rodriguez also describes her work with Poland’s Ministry of Sport and Tourism to pursue NSCA Global Chapter status, aligning with her passion for improving strength and conditioning education and implementation worldwide. Connect with Nicole by email: nicole@coachnicolerodriguez.com and online at: coachnicolerodriguez.com | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs and LinkedIn: @ericmcmahoncscs Learn more about NSCA international programs mentioned in the episode at NSCA.com/Global.

Explore why Dr. Jay Dawes has been selected as the 2026 NSCA Foundation Legacy Scholarship Honoree for his lasting impact on tactical strength and conditioning.

This purpose of this article is to supply personal trainers with resistance training techniques, progressions, and cues that can assist their clients in overcoming sarcopenia and to eventually press to the overhead position pain free and with confidence.

The aim of this article is to review the research into the knowledge of personal trainers, their misconceptions, and to provide evidence-based strategies to help correct any misconceptions.

The NSCA Bylaws outlines how the organization operates and is governed. The current bylaws have been amended and restated as of July 10, 2020.

What does a typical day look like for a sports performance coach? Nicole Shattuck shares her experience working with women’s lacrosse at Duke University, where ample resources fuel athlete outcomes. Start by examining her comprehensive approach to readiness that raises awareness for both athletes and coaches. Guided by data, Nicole uses insights to adapt workouts, manage physical and mental stress, and deepen the athlete-coach relationship. New to lacrosse? Nicole breaks down a detailed needs analysis, outlining workload management for different position groups. Plus, as the Chair of the NSCA Lacrosse Special Interest Group, Nicole provides opportunities for lacrosse professionals to connect. Follow her unique path from a background in business and the private sector to finding her calling in collegiate coaching. Driven by a desire to build a Duke University sport science department, Nicole also recently earned her Certified Performance and Sport Scientist® (CPSS®) credential and reveals how it empowers her relationships with allied health professionals. Connect with Nicole on Instagram at: @nicole_lilia or by email at: nicole.shattuck@duke.edu | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs or LinkedIn: @ericmcmahoncscs Join the NSCA Lacrosse Special Interest Group (SIG) online on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Instagram! Plus, get together in person at the Lacrosse SIG Meeting at the 2024 NSCA National Conference in Baltimore, MD. REGISTER NOW at NSCA.com/NSCACon

The purpose of this article is to bring awareness and provide an overview of emerging areas within strength and conditioning and sport science.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Foundation Board of Directors recognizes Joseph P. Weir, PhD, FNSCA, as our prestigious 2025 Legacy Scholarship Honoree.

CASCE accreditation is chosen by programs looking to be seen as a leader in strength and conditioning education.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its 2024 Research and Coaching Advancement Grants. This cycle, the Foundation will distribute more than $162,000 in grants and resources to 11 deserving NSCA Members within the strength and conditioning community. These grants fulfill the Foundation’s mission of supporting the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) by funding educational and research endeavors that enhance the practical application of strength and conditioning.