Human Kinetics Publishers Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning (3, 2026) |

One of the most comprehensive strength and conditioning resources available. Developed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and now in its fifth edition, Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning is the single best resource for strength and conditioning professionals and students. This comprehensive text explains the key theories, concepts, and scientific principles of strength training and conditioning as well as their direct application to athletic competition and performance. The content of Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fifth Edition, has been updated to reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of a strength and conditioning professional in today's world. Addressing the core proficiencies tested on the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam , the evidence-based approach and unbeatable accuracy of this text make it an ideal resource to rely on for CSCS exam preparation. The fifth edition contains the most current research and applications, including the following: A new chapter on functional and nonfunctional overreaching, overtraining, and the overtraining syndrome Updated stand-alone chapters to expand on age- and sex-related differences New research on mental health and the psychological impact of injury in sport New information on vaping and smoking and the implications for aerobic training New content about the importance of activating the central nervous system before training Written by contributors who are leading experts around the world, the text is organized to lead readers from theory to program design and practical strategies for administration and management of strength and conditioning facilities. Key points, chapter objectives, and self-study questions provide a structure to help students and professionals conceptualize the information and to reinforce fundamental facts. Application sidebars provide practical application of scientific concepts that can be used by strength and conditioning professionals in real-world settings, making the information immediately relatable and usable . The online learning tools delivered through HK Propel provide students with 20 downloadable lab activities for practice and retention of information. Furthermore, both students and professionals will benefit from the online videos of 21 foundational exercises that provide visual instruction and reinforce proper technique. Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fifth Edition, provides the most comprehensive information on organization and administration of facilities, testing and evaluation, exercise techniques, training adaptations, program design, and structure and function of body systems. Its scope, precision, and dependability make it one of the most widely used preparation texts for the CSCS exam as well as a definitive reference for strength and conditioning professionals to consult in their everyday practice. Note: A code for accessing HK Prope l is included with all new print books.