In Essentials of Strength Training and Conditioning, the leaders in the exercise sciences explore the scientific principles, concepts, and theories as well as the practical how-tos of strength training and conditioning. For the first time, students and professionals can turn to a single source for up-to-date, comprehensive information on a full range of strength and conditioning topics. This definitive reference examines the principles founded in the exercise sciences and how they can best be applied in designing safe and effective strength and conditioning programs; explains the structure and function of body systems and how they adapt to training; discusses the necessary steps of testing for strength and conditioning, from selecting the most appropriate test to evaluating results; provides information and instruction on stretching, plyometrics and speed development exercises, and lifting and spotting; explains how to design an effective strength training and conditioning program; and addresses facility management, including equipment issues, facility policies and procedures, staff concerns, and emergency preparedness issues.