One of the most comprehensive strength and conditioning resources available. Developed by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and now in its fifth edition, Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning is the single best resource for strength and conditioning professionals and students. This comprehensive text explains the key theories, concepts, and scientific principles of strength training and conditioning as well as their direct application to athletic competition and performance. The content of Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, Fifth Edition With HKPropel Access, has been updated to reflect the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of a strength and conditioning professional in today's world. Addressing the core proficiencies tested on the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) exam, the evidence-based approach and unbeatable accuracy of this text make it an ideal resource to rely on for CSCS exam preparation. The fifth edition contains the most current research and applications, including the following:A new chapter on functional and nonfunctional overreaching, overtraining, and the overtraining syndromeUpdated stand-alone chapters to expand on age- and sex-related differencesNew research on mental health and the psychological impact of injury in sportNew information on vaping and smoking and the implications for aerobic trainingNew content about the importance of activating the central nervous system before trainingWritten by contributors who are leading experts around the world, the text is organized to lead readers from theory to program design and practical strategies for administration and management of strength and conditioning facilities. Key points, chapter objectives, and self-study questions provide a structure to help students and professionals conceptualize the information and to reinforce fundamental facts. Application sidebars provide practical application of scientific concepts that can