When William Kraemer first entered the field, strength and conditioning was, as he puts it, “primordial.” There were few standards, limited research, and little shared understanding. As one of the most influential figures in strength and conditioning, Kraemer recounts how the profession grew from humble beginnings into a science-driven discipline. That history still holds weight for coaches today. He explains why coaches are often drawn to new ideas, but progress comes from building on proven principles. Workout logs are central to his approach, and he notes how analyzing training over time can improve decision-making. He also emphasizes alignment across the performance ladder to support innovation and athlete development. As the Senior Advisor for Sports Performance and Sports Science at The Ohio State University, he shares his perspective on where the field is headed next. Apply his wisdom to stay grounded in solid principles, evaluate training with greater precision, and better serve your athletes.
Reach out to Dr. Kraemer by email: Kraemer.44@osu.edu | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs and LinkedIn: @ericmcmahoncscs
This PTQ article shares strategies for personal trainers about the treatment and prevention of the female athlete triad. Visit NSCA online to read more on youth fitness and health news.
Personal trainersExercise ScienceNutritionTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition and Disorder or DiseaseProfessional DevelopmentDepressionSports ScienceNutritionFemale AthleticsHigh-intensity interval trainingMenstrual HealthBone HealthFatigue
The “priority training system” is one method first responders can use to ensure adequate exercise while not overexerting to the point that they are too fatigued to perform their jobs.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceProgram designSafetyover trainingfatiguerecoveryfirst responderspriority training system
This article seeks to explain the differences between males and females in training and adaptations, as well as provide actionable guidelines to improve performance.
Nearly all fitness professionals are forced to address low back pain (LBP) to some extent, regardless of the age or population with which they work. The purpose of this article is to shed light on contemporary research surrounding LBP.
Personal trainersProgram designMobilityLower Back PainMobility for Lower BackStabilityStability for Lower Back
This Personal Training Quarterly article shares hospitalitydriven approaches to help personal trainers build connections with clients. Visit NSCA online to read more on fitness, hospitality and health news.
Personal trainersProgram designOrganization and AdministrationTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentProfessional DevelopmentEncouragementEmpathyPositive MindsetContextual AssociationsClient SuccessMotivationGroup Fitness TrainingHospitality
Part 2 of this series on allostatic load theory will focus on how monitoring personnel holistically can contribute to a well-rounded health and performance model supporting the tactical athletes.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceProgram designTesting and EvaluationAutonomic Nervous SystemProgram DesignTesting and Evaluation
This article from the TSAC Report outlines key considerations for developing rehabilitation programs for individuals with minor traumatic brain injuries. Visit NSCA online to learn more about muscle recovery, rehabilitation strategies, and tactical fitness.
TSAC FacilitatorsExercise ScienceExercise TechniqueProgram designTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentSafetyBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition and Disorder or DiseaseProfessional DevelopmentRehabilitationFitness Assessment ToolsConcussionLaw Enforcement Professionals (LEPs)mTBI (mild traumatic brain injury)