Successful performance in sport is a multifactorial process that includes a blend of technical, tactical, physiological, biomechanical, and psychological features interacting together to result in the desired performance outcome. The strength and conditioning (S&C) program, depending on the sport, can support performance by influencing the physiological and biomechanical components through direct and indirect avenues of impact. Performance planning to achieve identified objectives is typically a long-term process, ranging from a year in seasonal professional team sports to a four-year Olympic cycle. It is critical to develop and implement key strategic processes to ensure that the S&C program effectively supports performance at major competitions. Furthermore, it is essential to have clarity for the role of S&C within the overall sports training program. Having a clear approach to deconstructing and understanding performance from a human performance perspective, showing how and where the impact on performance can be made, and objectively demonstrating the contribution to performance variables is vital. The current article uses the author’s experience of working across a range of Olympic and professional sports to articulate a process for strategic planning and managing S&C support from a technical perspective. Examples from various sports have been used to illustrate critical strategic processes.

The NSCA credentials should always be presented using a standard format. Please review the guidelines prior to listing the credentials.

This page contains instructions for reporting copyright violations as well as errors that may require retraction or correction.

Prepare for your CSPS® with confidence. Explore study timelines and optional NSCA Exam Prep resources — like the textbook, study guide, and practice questions.

Explore 2027 NSCA Tactical Annual Training in San Antonio and online, August 23–26, for tactical strength and conditioning education. See 2026 highlights.

Welcome to the NSCA Global program where there are over 10,000 certified professionals found in over 50 countries. The NSCA is committed to empower international partners to advance world understanding of the NSCA’s mission. The NSCA Global community is motivated by educating first.

Learn about the various categories of CEU opportunities the NSCA will accept. The categories exist to ensure individuals gain knowledge in a variety of ways.

The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Headquarters features a 6,000 square foot state-of-the-art Performance Center designed specifically to train clients of all fitness levels—from youth and novice to tactical and elite. The NSCA Performance Center serves as a proving ground for the testing and application of scientific principles optimizing sport performance, and offers private, semi-private, and group training services for individuals and teams.

Access the video collection for the 2019 Perform Better 3-Day Functional Summit Live Stream