Strength & Conditioning the missing link in the chain
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Definition – What does Strength & Conditioning mean?
According to Physio-Pedia , Strength & Conditioning (S&C) is “the selection and development of dynamic and static exercises used to improve physical performance.” Physio-Pedia
The International Universities Strength and Conditioning Association (IUSCA) adds: S&C is “the professional application of scientifically sound training principles to make athletes and trainees stronger, more resilient, and more efficient.” iusca.org
This makes it clear: Strength & Conditioning is more than just fitness or strength training. It's a holistic approach that combines strength, conditioning, mobility, prevention, and performance—and thus the missing link in many traditional personal training concepts.
My first experiences with Strength & Conditioning
My first encounter with the term came in 2012 when I became a strength and conditioning coach for heavyweight boxer and undefeated champion Arnold "de Cobra" Gjergjaj . Although I already had extensive coaching experience at the time, I wasn't aware of the depth of the term "strength and conditioning ." It had long been established in English-speaking countries, but here it still seemed like a trend.
But I soon realized: Strength & Conditioning isn't a fad. It's the clear distinction between general fitness and true athletic performance optimization. As a Strength & Conditioning coach, my job is to develop athletes—or entire teams—in strength, maximum strength, conditioning, and athletic readiness, and to provide long-term support.
The interface between training and therapy
The collaboration with Corposana Basel and leading experts in physiotherapy, osteopathy, and TCM was particularly valuable for me. This taught me how closely S&C is linked to rehabilitation, prevention, and prehabilitation. Training should not stray too far from evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Many S&C principles originate from the ancient systems of Russian weightlifters or the successful models of Bulgarian athletes – and are still valuable today. At the same time, the field has evolved: A modern Strength & Conditioning coach integrates nutrition, supplementation, recovery, and lifestyle into their coaching. This is the only way to unlock an athlete's full potential.
Who needs Strength & Conditioning?
The answer is simple: anyone who wants more than just aesthetics.
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Those who simply want muscle mass and a flat stomach can achieve this with hypertrophy training and a calorie deficit. However, these goals are rarely sustainable and difficult to integrate into everyday life.
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Strength & Conditioning focuses on performance and body composition . A good S&C coach knows: Only those who are efficient, resilient, and at the same time in balance with muscle mass and body fat will be healthy, strong, and satisfied in the long term.
Performance is not in conflict with aesthetics—quite the opposite. A low body fat percentage and high performance complement and reinforce each other.
Conclusion – Strength & Conditioning as the missing link
Strength & Conditioning isn't a trend, but the missing link in the chain that completes many training approaches. It combines training, prevention, therapy, and lifestyle – for athletes, ambitious amateur athletes, and anyone who wants to stay healthy and productive in the long term.
At Squat School Basel , Strength & Conditioning isn't an add-on, but the core of our system. Here, you'll learn what real training looks like—holistic, evidence-based, and with one clear goal: your maximum performance.