Specificity of training involves an analysis of physiological, anatomical, and psychological needs for an activity. This article explains how to create a well-designed program that takes exercise specificity into account.

One of the most important skills for tactical facilitators to have is the ability to influence others. One way tactical facilitators can improve their influence is through education, observation, and participation.

Manual resistance training (MRT) can be an effective, low-cost, and easy-to-perform training modality. It can be performed in many situations regardless of space, equipment availability, and performance level.

This video demonstrates optimal joint kinematics at the shoulder complex for overhead lifting tasks as well as a screening process to provide coaches with a tool to assess an athlete’s suitability for overhead lifting.

Nick Clayton, Personal Training Manager at the NSCA, shows key coaching points and progressions for single-leg squat and lunge movements.

Strength coaches build resilience in others, but sometimes life puts their own to the test. Katie Guillory, now Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at her alma mater, Louisiana State University (LSU), faced that test after a summer accident led to a below-knee amputation. As a former LSU softball captain with extensive knee and hip surgeries, Guillory explains her strong foundation for physical and mental recovery. For her, that means showing up and getting after it, even on hard days. Guillory encourages others to “act yourself into existence for a second,” believing that small, consistent steps — especially when motivation is low — are what build strong mindsets. Supported by the LSU community, she reflects on balancing relentless drive with vulnerability, accepting help, giving herself grace, and finding strength in connection. Her experience underscores that resilience is a lifelong mindset, reminding listeners that the same habits that build athletes can also rebuild their coach. Reach out to Katie on Instagram: @steel_guil and X/Twitter: @steel_guil | Find Eric on Instagram: @ericmcmahoncscs and LinkedIn: @ericmcmahoncscs Answer Bryan Mann’s “call to arms!” Many volunteer applications are open now through December 15. Step up and give back to your strength and conditioning community at NSCA.com/Volunteer.

In this session from the 2015 NSCA National Conference, Greg Myer discusses current concussion prevention strategies as well as possible innovative strategies of the future. By learning how nature may provide a key piece of information to reduce concussion injuries, the strength and conditioning professional may be able to help prevent sports related concussions.

This article is the first of a continuing series of tactical strength and conditioning (TSAC) research reviews. It is designed to bring awareness to new research findings of relevance to tactical communities.

This excerpt from the Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, 4th Edition gives a quick glimpse into some of the implements used in strongman training.