Strength Training – A Definition

Frans Bosch in several of his presentations has defined Strength Training – as coordination training with resistance. I think that is a good starting point. My adaptation of that definition is as follows: Coordination training with the resistance and mode that is appropriate for the sport or activity trained for. I think this definition gets us away from chasing numbers in terms of maximums and put the focus on the application of strength rather than strength you can measure.

Comments

[Timothy Clark]

Thanks for the thoughts Vern. This is a helpful definition in terms of thinking about athletic development. Optimal application stands out as the goal more than big numbers.

[Kristof]

Vern,
I really like your take on Bosch's views of strength training. A couple of things to add or consider maybe:

In his books, Ulrich Jonath from the German Track Association, talks about strength/resistance training as 'inter- and intra-muscular coordination' training, which I think is in line with you and Bosch, but may help elaborate and clarify with the "mode and resistance" that you mention in your definition.

Also, couldn't 'appropriate for the sport or activity trained for' be considered "task-specific"

[Sul]

Vern, high touch vs. high tech is right on! 18 yrs ago I taught 6-8 yr olds how to skate if anyone has ever tried to ice skate you will realize it can be a frighten process.

I find High tech is great fun a new side to the art but if I don't know how, why, when and who I am applying it to I can get lost and side track on the journey. This was one of my mistakes. Thank you for the signs!

[Squat king]

I think that strength training, should be funtional, that it should purely tie in with the needs of the sport you are training for.