The Definition of Strength and Conditioning

What is the role of the strength & conditioning coach in MMA?

I commonly speak to athletes who have an incorrect view of this role and what the s&c coach can do for them. My opinion is that the s&c coach is responsible for all physical training/programming not covered in the technical or mma skills coaching. In the purest form the s&c coach is there to condition the athlete for performance.

This conditioning should be adapted to the sport and the individual athlete. This means programming appropriate activities and exercises. I think strength & conditioning has been given something of a bad reputation in MMA - too many coaches have been utilising ineffective programming e.g. over reliance on powerlifting movements, isolation training, split routines urghh...

For MMA athletes the focus should certainly be on:

• Power
• Power endurance
• Agility
• Flexibility/mobility

These are proven performance improving elements that will shape the outcome of competition.

If you are still lifting weights and don't know why contact me