Strength and Conditioning Career Path

What are the steps to a career in this field?

A key in gaining a job in this profession is developing a background and knowledge of athletics. Having played sports and been a part of a team before is important. Having a hands-on and didactic education in lifting and training techniques is key.

What are some current hot topics in this field?

The biggest current topic discussed in this field is requiring licensure for S&C professionals. While licensure is not currently required, many people want to standardize this profession by requiring a licensure. It is important to educate the general public and gain recognition of the fact that there is a proper pathway, education and credentials involved in becoming a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Other “hot topics” in this field include discussion of the spread and prevention of performance enhancing drugs.

Learn more about strength and conditioning certification.

What advice for someone wanting to pursue this field

It is important to know going into this field it is something you do because you love the work, sports, and being a part of a team. It is Strength and Conditioning Career Path

not the type of job you go into to earn high wages or gain recognition. This job involves playing more of a “behind the scenes” role. No one looks to congratulate the S&C coach when a game is won but oftentimes like to place blame on this professional when the team doesn’t perform well.

What opportunities exist for career advancement?

Typically at larger universities individuals enter this field as an assistant to a head S&C coach, either assisting with a large sport like football, or working with the smaller teams. From that position advancement to the head strength and conditioning specialist is possible with time and experience. In a clinical setting these professionals can advance to the head of a certain area. For instance, there may be a group of S&C professionals in a clinic who focus solely on speed. There is one individual who is the head of S&C for speed. Beyond that there may be a clinical director position available for advancement.

Learn more about strength and conditioning schools.

It is more common for professionals in this field to jump from one college or university to a larger institution as a way to advance rather than advancing within their current employment setting.

Do most people stay in this field or use it as a stepping-stone to another job?

Strength and conditioning professionals enjoy training athletes so typically do not wish to move to another career. To many people in this profession, it is the next best thing to being the athlete.