This course is an introduction to force plates and performance testing. This course covers the basics of setup and calibration of force plates, and then walks through several fundamental performance tests including squat jumps, countermovement jumps, drop jumps and loaded jumps. Two versions of the isometric mid-thigh pull as well as an isometric squat are also covered in the course. Real-time data collection from the software is also shown as the athletes are performing the tests. A module on data analysis rounds out the course, which includes five metrics collected from the force plate, as well as calculations from this data, including relative strength index - modified, and dynamic strength index.
Join the 2026 NSCA Power Sports Performance Summit in Plainfield, IN, Sept. 26. Build explosive qualities with cueing, loading, + sport transfer. Earn 0.8 CEUs
This article from NSCA Coach explores how beet juice and nitrate supplements can enhance athletic performance. Learn more about nutrition and exercise physiology online at NSCA.com.
Exercise ScienceNutritionProgram designTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition, Disorder, or Disease
Learn 7 ways that strength & conditioning professionals can recognize mental health concerns, respond effectively, & provide support while staying within scope.
Personal trainersTSAC FacilitatorsCoachesOrganization and AdministrationSafetyEmergency ProceduresProfessional Development
Concussion is a concerning injury and recovery can last days, weeks, or even months. Becoming familiar with post-concussion symptoms and the ensuing health-related sequelae is essential for those aiming to optimize the physical performance of tactical athletes.
TSAC FacilitatorsSafetyBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition, Disorder, or Disease
This Kinetic Select excerpt from the Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fourth Edition describes the results from electromyography (EMG) studies on the neural adaptations to anaerobic training.
Personal trainersTSAC FacilitatorsCoachesExercise Science
This article in NSCA Coach shares a research-driven framework for dryland training in competitive swimming. Visit us online to learn more on sport performance and exercise science.
CoachesExercise ScienceExercise TechniqueProgram designTesting and EvaluationClient Consultation|AssessmentSafetyProfessional Development
This article explores the use of velocity-based training (VBT) apps and how measuring movement velocity during strength training can enhance program design, performance monitoring, and training outcomes. Visit NSCA online to learn more about sports performance and strength training.
CoachesExercise TechniqueProgram designOrganization and AdministrationTesting and EvaluationBasic Pathophysiology and Science of Health Status or Condition, Disorder, or DiseaseProfessional Development
This award is a recognition given to NSCA members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to and effectiveness in Equity, Leadership, Empowerment, Visibility, Access, Training, and Excellence within Strength and Conditioning.