Why Strength and Conditioning Matters for Athletes
Industry-Recognised Qualification:
The UKSCA S&C Trainer qualification is an industry-recognised credential that provides credibility and enhances career opportunities for aspiring strength and conditioning professionals. It is highly respected across the UK and internationally, making it an essential qualification for those looking to excel in the field. Start your journey towards becoming a certified S&C professional today—contact us for more information and enrollment details.
Hands-On Learning:
Our programme emphasises practical, hands-on learning to ensure that participants gain real-world experience. Through workshops, coaching practice, and practical assessments, you will develop the necessary skills to apply strength and conditioning techniques effectively. Gain invaluable practical experience—get in touch to sign up and start learning today.
Expert-Led Instruction:
Our courses are led by experienced, qualified instructors who have years of expertise in strength and conditioning. They provide valuable insights and guidance, ensuring that students receive the highest quality education and are well-prepared for a career in S&C. Learn from the best in the field—contact us to book your place in the next cohort.
Guidance on opportunities within the S&C industry
As part of the S&C Trainer qualification, we offer tailored advice on career progression, job opportunities, and networking within the sports and fitness industry. Our support helps you navigate the various paths available, whether you choose to work with athletes, teams, or within fitness settings. Unlock career opportunities—reach out to discuss how this qualification can open doors for you in the S&C industry.
Ongoing CPD & Mentoring:
We offer continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities and mentoring to ensure that you stay at the forefront of the strength and conditioning field. Regular updates and guidance from experts will help you build on your qualification and continue to grow your expertise. Stay ahead in your career—contact us to learn more about our CPD and mentoring support.
How you are assessed on the course
02
03
04
05
01
Analysing Your Needs
Covering foundational S&C principles and applied coaching techniques: Candidates plan and deliver a 20-minute session focusing on foundational movements, coaching a minimum of three participants to enhance their technique in exercises such as running, jumping, pushing, pulling, squatting, hinging, rotating and bracing.
Coaching Safety
Learn how to keep your athletes safe during strength and energy system training: This assessment involves coaching six specific tasks, including barbell back squats and energy systems training setups, ensuring safe and effective execution in a training environment.
Strength-Based Training Coaching Session
Safely push your athlete to another level of performance.: Candidates conduct a 40-minute strength training session, incorporating a RAMP warm-up and coaching five prescribed strength exercises, demonstrating the ability to provide progressive challenges tailored to participants' needs
Holistic Improvement
Complete a Initial Consultation, Needs Analysis, Physical Assessment, and Programme Design: This assessment requires candidates to perform an initial consultation, conduct needs analyses and physical assessments, and design a tailored training programme for a real athlete or client, establishing SMART goals.
Case Study Presentation
Present your athletes progress and your reflections on the coaching process: Candidates present a comprehensive case study online, detailing their work with an athlete, followed by a discussion with assessors to evaluate their applied knowledge and practical coaching skills.
-
What should I eat before training or competition?The ideal pre-training meal depends on the timing, butgenerally includes carbohydrates for energy and protein for muscle support.
-
Can sports psychology help with pre-game nerves?Yes, we provide strategies to manage anxiety and enhance composure before competition.
-
Will lifting weights make me bulky?Not necessarily—our programs are designed to enhance functional strength without excessive muscle gain unless specifically targeted.
-
Does S&C help with injury prevention?Yes, structured S&C programs reduce the risk of injuries by improving muscle strength, joint stability, and movement mechanics.
-
Do I need a strict diet to improve my performance?Not necessarily—our approach focuses on balance, sustainability, and fuelling appropriately for your sport.
-
Do you provide advice on sports supplements?Yes, we offer evidence-based recommendations on supplements to ensure they are safe and effective.
-
How long does it take to see results?Many athletes notice positive changes in mindset and performance within a few weeks.
-
Is mental training only for elite athletes?No, athletes at all levels can benefit from improved focus, confidence, and resilience.
-
Do you offer sport-specific training?Absolutely. Our programmes are tailored to the unique demands of your sport and position.
-
How often should I do strength and conditioning training?The frequency depends on your sport and goals, but most athletes train 2-4 times per week.
-
How important is hydration for athletes?Hydration is crucial for performance, endurance, and recovery. We provide personalised hydration strategies.
-
Is strength training suitable for all athletes?Yes, strength training benefits all athletes, from beginners to professionals, across various sports.
-
Can S&C reduce workplace stress?Yes, regular exercise and strength training improve mental resilience and reduce stress.
-
Is workplace nutrition coaching just for weight management?No, our programmes focus on overall health, energy levels, and performance at work.
-
Can psychology coaching reduce workplace stress?Absolutely—our programmes provide proven methods to manage stress and increase resilience.
-
How can psychology training enhance leadership?By teaching decision-making under pressure, improving communication, and fostering confidence.
-
Do you provide training on meal preparation?Yes, we offer online cooking workshops to teach employees how to make nutritious, easy meals.
-
How do we integrate S&C into a busy work schedule?We offer flexible training sessions that fit into work routines without disrupting productivity.
-
Is S&C only for athletes?No, strength and conditioning benefit everyone, from corporate professionals to elite athletes.
-
Is sports psychology relevant for business professionals?Yes, mental skills training is just as effective in corporate settings as in sports.
-
Can better nutrition reduce workplace stress?Yes, proper nutrition helps regulate stress and improves mood and mental clarity.
-
Does the education include practical cooking skills?Yes, we can integrate practical cooking education to ensure well-rounded nutrition coaching skills, which can be done with or without the athletes! These can be great team building activities for the whole team.
-
Do I need prior coaching experience?No, the course is designed for individuals at all levels, from beginners to experienced trainers.
-
What qualifications do I need to become an S&C coach?Our UKSCA S&C Trainer qualification provides a recognised entry route into the profession.
-
What career opportunities are available after completing the course?Graduates can pursue careers in sports performance coaching, fitness instruction, or further professional development within elite sport.
-
Is practical coaching included in the programme?Yes, we focus on real-world applications to ensure well-rounded psychological training.
-
What qualifications do I need to work in sports nutrition?Our workshopsprovidean opportunity to debunk myths and provide coaches with the basics of sports nutrition and its impact on performance and recovery.
-
Do I need prior experience to enrol?No, our courses cater to all levels, from beginners to experienced coaches.
-
What qualifications do I need to become a sports psychologist?Our courses provide a structured pathway into the field of sports psychology but to become a sport psychologist you will need to complete a HCPC course or supervised experience.
-
Do I need prior nutrition experience?No, we cater to all levels, from beginners to those with prior nutrition or science backgrounds.
-
Can S&C be integrated into existing training schedules?Yes, we design our programs to complement your current training regimen without causing fatigue or overtraining.
-
Do you work with amateur and elite teams?Yes, we provide S&C coaching for teams at all levels, from grassroots to professional organisations.
-
How do you tailor nutrition for different positions in team sports?Nutritional requirements vary based on role-specific demands, and we adjust strategies accordingly.
-
How can mental training improve consistency in performance?By developing structured mental routines, players can maintain focus and execution under pressure.
-
Can you provide meal plans for entire teams?Yes, we offer structured team nutrition plans designed to support training loads and competitive schedules.
-
Do you work with entire teams or individual players?We offer both team-wide workshops and individual player support.
-
Can sports psychology improve team chemistry?Yes, our methods enhance communication and trust within squads.
-
Is hydration covered in team nutrition coaching?Absolutely—hydration strategies are integrated to maximise endurance and recovery.
-
How is training structured for different sports?We tailor each programme to the demands of the sport, considering movement patterns, energy systems, and positional requirements.
-
Do you work with small businesses to improve employee wellness?The quickest way to get support is to complete a contact us form on the website and we will be in touch to discuss your requirements and provide you with a bespoke proposal based on your needs.
-
I’m a sports coach looking for support for my team how do I get this?The quickest way to get support is to complete a contact us form on the website and we will be in touch to discuss your requirements and provide you with a bespoke proposal based on your needs.
-
Are all sessions face-to-face?No, we have a flexible model which can be completely online, totally face-to-face or a hybrid of both. We have AF branches in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Northern Ireland but have provided support for athletes as far away as Tasmania, Australia and San Francisco, USA.
-
Do Athlete Focused work with children/youth athletes?Yes, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide appropriate support for all athletes whatever their age, training experience and sport.
-
How do I sign up?If you are an individual athlete and know exactly what you need, go to our pro store and sign up for the service you require. If you are unsure, book a call and our support team can guide you on what will help you achieve your goals. If you are a sports coach, club administrator or a business executive then fill in a contact us form and we will be in touch as soon as possible.
-
Why would we subcontract our support services instead of employing our own staff?We are often asked this question and it’s simple really. When you use our team you don’t just get one or two individuals, you get a wide range of experts, our systems and processes, equipment and our internal CPD system. You don’t need to worry about administrative things like Tax or Personal Development Plans, as we have these covered. Both most of all we are experts in our field and have a full evidence based, proven system ready to place into your organisation.
-
What happens when I sign up?When you sign up you’ll get an email to organise your first meeting and initial consultation. This will be where you can explain your goals and we will start to develop your plan. You might be given some ‘homework’ so we can set some baselines or you’ll complete a face-to-fave profiling session to assess your strengths and areas to work on. After this process, you’ll get your programme and your journey to elite performance will really kick into gear!