Central College will launch a new strength and conditioning major beginning in Fall 2022. Strength and conditioning majors are a new undergraduate option to address changes in the health and wellness industry.

“Central is a leader in offering this specialized major for strength and conditioning coaches,” says Dave Pavlat, associate professor of kinesiology. “A primary focus for students will be working with athletes to improve sports performance and decrease risk of injury. Graduates of Central’s program will be able to build a training atmosphere that supports athletes to perform at their best ability.”

A bachelor’s degree with a strength and conditioning major prepares students for entry-level strength and conditioning coaching positions in public and private settings. This major under the kinesiology department will give students hands-on, classroom and clinical experiences that develop and enhance their skills by working with Central’s student-athlete teams.

“Adding this major was a logical next step as we prepare future coaches. Our program builds upon our excellent athletics, kinesiology and education programs,” says John Roslien, associate professor of kinesiology and kinesiology department chair. “Students will be learning and experience coaching on a daily basis with college-level athletes.”

The strength and conditioning program will provide experiences for students and outcomes that align with the Council on Accreditation of Strength and Conditioning Education necessary to be competent, professional entry-level strength and conditioning coaches.

“Recently, Central transitioned to kinesiology and has retired the term and major of exercise science. Kinesiology looks at whole body mechanics,” Roslien says. “Rather than just exercise science, the kinesiology curriculum focuses on the whole body for performance, rehabilitation and education. It’s part of the pre-professional health tracks like physical therapy, occupational therapy and strength and conditioning.”

American Kinesiology Association defines kinesiology is an academic discipline that involves the study of physical activity and its impact on health, society, and quality of life. Central is a member of the AKA.