Exercise is increasingly recognized as an effective, nonpharmacological approach for managing both acute and chronic pain. However, accurate pain assessment methods tailored to different exercise settings and populations are essential. This review evaluates existing pain assessment techniques, highlighting self-report measures such as the Visual Analog Scale and Numerical Rating Scale, as well as quantitative measures, such as Pressure Pain Threshold and Conditioned Pain Modulation. These techniques provide valuable insights into the neurophysiological mechanisms behind pain reduction. Although exercise commonly produces a temporary reduction in pain sensitivity known as exercise-induced hypoalgesia (EIH), the effectiveness of this response depends on various factors, such as exercise intensity, psychological state, and pre-existing pain conditions. In addition, exercise itself can sometimes lead to short-term discomfort due to muscle fatigue or delayed-onset muscle soreness. This review offers strength and conditioning providers, as well as researchers, a clear framework for (a) selecting appropriate pain assessment tools, (b) designing research protocols, and (c) customizing exercise interventions for specific populations and pain conditions. By examining self-report and quantitative assessment techniques, along with considerations for data analysis and practical application, this review helps strength and conditioning professionals interpret the literature surrounding EIH and apply practical pain monitoring strategies to guide training and recovery in various populations.

The NSCA Jerry Martin Strength and Conditioning Scholarship Fund provides support to students planning to pursue careers as strength coaches. Named in honor of Coach Jerry Martin, longtime strength coach and recipient of the NSCA’s 2015 Boyd Epley Award for Lifetime Achievement, the Jerry Martin Strength and Conditioning Scholarship Fund was created in order to support NSCA members who are in college and intend to pursue a career in strength and conditioning coaching.

Readership Survey Results

NSCA has a network of volunteer leaders who direct NSCA’s efforts at the state and provincial level. NSCA’s Northeast Regional Coordinator provides oversight and training to local state and provincial directors. Members in the Northeast Region can connect at local and regional events as well as on Facebook to others in this area.

The NSCA is committed to providing its members with new resources. Here, NSCA Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Scott Caulfield provides his review of the Volt© Athletics web-based platform.

The NSCA Foundation is seeking 1 individuals to serve on the Investment Committee for 3-year terms (2023-2026). The Investment Committee assists review the NSCA Foundation investments and work with the Board of Directors and Investment Manager to ensure appropriate stewardship of all funds. All work is done virtually and no in-person meetings are required.

The JSCR Editorial Excellence Award is presented to members of the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research (JSCR) Editorial Board in recognition of their service to the NSCA.

This sample job description is intended to be used as a starting point for creating a job description that is appropriate for your situation.

The NSCA Foundation is seeking 1 individuals to serve on the Investment Committee for 3-year terms (2023-2026). The Investment Committee assists review the NSCA Foundation investments and work with the Board of Directors and Investment Manager to ensure appropriate stewardship of all funds. All work is done virtually and no in-person meetings are required.

The NSCA Foundation is seeking 1 individuals to serve on the Investment Committee for 3-year terms (2023-2026). The Investment Committee assists review the NSCA Foundation investments and work with the Board of Directors and Investment Manager to ensure appropriate stewardship of all funds. All work is done virtually and no in-person meetings are required.