The importance of physical fitness is never greater than when lives are at stake. Specifically, professionals in law enforcement, fire/rescue, and the military need fitness and tactical athleticism to efficiently respond to calls and complete missions regardless of the obstacles, mixed terrain, interference, and dangerous environmental conditions involved

National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Fellows are an accomplished group of professionals whose frequent and sustained contributions to the profession have promoted the goals and activities of the NSCA. The purpose of the Fellowship is to promote excellence and leadership within the NSCA by recognizing high standards and extraordinary professional development.

The steps on this page will help you select the right certification that fits your career goals.

Colorado Springs, CO – The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) is proud to announce a new partnership with the National Basketball Strength and Conditioning Association (NBSCA). The agreement establishes a mutually beneficial relationship between the two associations that will support each organization’s mission to improve athletic performance and fitness.

Congratulations to the NSCA's 2025 awardees for their dedication and contributions to the NSCA and the field of strength and conditioning.

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.

In July 2018, the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) announced that by 2030 (target date) the eligibility for the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) examination will require candidates to graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in a strength and conditioning related field, from a program accredited by an NSCA-approved accrediting agency. The development of the NSCA approved accrediting agency is currently underway and is expected to be fully functional by 2021, with the first program targeted to be accredited in 2022.