This article examines military-specific VO₂max testing protocols and how individualized assessments can improve fitness evaluation and combat readiness. Visit NSCA for latest sport performance and tactical athlete content.

Colorado Springs, CO - Lee Brown to receive the 2014 Boyd Epley Award for Lifetime Achievement at the National Strength and Conditioning Association's 37th National Conference on July 10-12, 2014 in Las Vegas, NV.

Considering the great popularity of eccentric-based training, the purpose of this review is to first provide the scientific rationale for its use; second, summarize the eccentric-based training modalities that can be used; and finally, offer practical recommendations on how to implement eccentricbased modalities to enhance sports performance. The molecular and neural mechanisms underlying eccentric actions are partially distinct from those of concentric and isometric actions. During eccentric actions, theories suggest a strain-induced modulation of actin-myosin interactions at the crossbridge level, activation of structural protein titin, and winding of titin on actin. Eccentric acute physiological responses differ from concentric exercise responses, including variations in neuromuscular, metabolic, hormonal, and anabolic signaling. Eccentric training elicits greater improvements in muscle strength, power, and stretch-shortening cycle function compared with concentric-only or traditional resistance training. Therefore, eccentric-based training can lead to unique neuromuscular (e.g., improved coordination of motor units) and morphological (e.g., increased muscle fascicle length and enhanced distal cross-sectional area) adaptations that could play a key role in sport performance. Practitioners may implement eccentric exercises with external loads, fully eccentric-based exercises (e.g., Nordic hamstring curl), accentuated eccentric loading, flywheel resistance exercise, and plyometrics to develop specific physical adaptations in line with their goals. Eccentric work (e.g., for hamstrings) can be obtained during other exercises such as downhill running tasks, decelerations, and sprinting activities. Practitioners need to be aware that no single “silver bullet” training modality exists; consequently, practitioners should use a combination of eccentric-based training approaches with their athletes to obtain the desired adaptations.

CASCE accreditation is designed to help your program recruit more high-caliber students and prepare them for fulfilling careers in the strength and conditioning industry.

Netball is a team sport played worldwide. High-risk landing events containing biomechanical potential for noncontact knee soft-tissue injury (STI) occur frequently. Subsequently, noncontact knee STI is common after knee abduction collapse during landing tasks. Lower-limb mobility, strength, balance, movement, and hop test characteristics (intrinsic, modifiable risk factors) are associated with high-risk landing biomechanics and noncontact knee STI events. Such risk factors should be considered in netball-specific noncontact knee STI prevention preparticipation screening. Corresponding training methods should be included as indicated in netball-specific multimodal noncontact knee STI prevention programs. This article provides insight into noncontact knee injury–related aspects of netball and gives detailed suggestions for injury prevention screening and programming.

Abstract submissions are open yearly from November to March (exact dates change annually). See the Abstract Submission and Presentation Guidelines for more information (below). Research abstract presentations are an opportunity to present current research findings to researchers and strength and conditioning professionals at the NSCA National Conference.

Acceleration and maximal velocity are two factors that are key for any position in football and can determine success in many situations out on the field. This article will review several aspects of sprint mechanics and training to enhance linear (straight-ahead) speed for football players.

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This PTQ article focuses on the use of the back squat along with innovative technology to measure velocity during lower body lifts. Visit NSCA online to read more on personal training news and athletic performance.