NSCA.COM
Q: What do facilities offering these
workouts need to be aware of? Do these
workouts inherently present more liability
risk to coaches and fitness professionals?
What does the NSCA recommend when
considering this type of programming?
A: Training facilities should be aware of the
important information previously discussed
and the following key considerations:
Pre-training evaluation – Anyone
undergoing high-intensity exercise
should possess a sufficient foundation of
strength, speed, coordination, balance, and
technique/skill before engaging in higher
intensities.
Technique – The exercise professional
must be able to demonstrate and have the
participant likewise demonstrate proper
technique in order to maximize the benefits
of the exercise and also to minimize the
risk of injury.
Progressive warm-up – Progressive warmups should be utilized for every session.
Strength – The participant should
demonstrate a sufficient level of strength
before engaging in activities such as
plyometrics.
surface with shock absorbing properties
(but not excessive thickness), such as a
level grass field or non-slip rubber, are
essential to reduce injury risk.
Speed – Many high-intensity exercises
occur at higher speeds with additional
weight such as a barbell; however, before
any load is added, it is important for the
participant to be able to demonstrate they
can move efficiently through the activity,
first slowly, then progressively more
rapidly, before adding any resistance.
Training area – Be cognizant of the amount
of space needed to complete the exercise
and allow a safe environment for multiple
people to be moving at any one time. Do
not forget to check your ceiling height
before initiating any jumping or pull-up
exercises.
Balance – Oftentimes, high-intensity
activities require coordination and
balance for safe and efficient execution.
Progressively difficult balance tests are
recommended before initiating highintensity exercise to provide information on
the ability to maintain balance through the
exercise. Examples include standing single
leg, quarter squat, double leg, or single leg.
Landing surface – High-intensity activity
such as plyometrics can have very high
impact forces that are transferred to the
body of the participants. Having a landing
Equipment – Equipment, such as boxes,
should have a non-slip base and top
surface and be of a sturdy wood or metal
frame.
Q: Is a specialty certification necessary
to help professionals lead this type of
training? Why or why not?
A: No, a specialty certification is not
needed if the professional has an
independently accredited certification
that provides appropriate coverage of the
subject matter.
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