Raising the Bar: Educational Strength and Conditioning Programs in PE

As strength and conditioning (S&C) becomes important in PE and youth sports, many teachers and coaches are expected to lead programs that are safe and educational without formal training or qualifications. This session emphasizes the need for a purposeful and student-centered approach to S&C that's grounded in scientific principles, responsive to student interests and developmental needs, and guided by the belief that programs should foster learning, not just performance. Participants will explore strategies for managing the training environment, teaching proper technique, and promoting physical literacy through individualized programming. The session will highlight how S&C can be embedded within a long-term athletic development framework, helping students build competence, confidence, and motivation for lifelong physical activity. Presenters will also examine how the lack of structured and developmentally appropriate training in schools and youth sports contributes to injury and disengagement and will share actionable strategies to improve instruction and promote inclusive, meaningful participation.