The Science of Strength
First taught in 2009 at the Summer Residential Governor's School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology, the Science of Strength encompasses a broad range of scientific and theoretical constructs applicable to the development of a sound strength and conditioning program. The program focuses on aspects of strength and conditioning that maximize an individual's athletic potential while reducing the risk of injury. Implementing a functional and sport-specific program provides athletes the underlying structure required to perform at their optimal level of play.
Areas covered in the course include muscle physiology, biomechanics, psychological components for optimal sports performance, nutrition, and various applications for fitness testing.
The Science of Strength class provides a radically different experience from each of the other classes offered at the Governor's School. The class is very action-based in that skills and theories learned in the classroom are put into practice immediately. In addition to traditional classroom learning in the fields of sport psychology and motor development, students spend time on the track and in the weight room learning strength and conditioning techniques that directly aid in sport performance. These hands on experiences also involve discussions about body mechanics and muscle physiology. Proper nutrition for health and physical fitness is also discussed.The Science of Strength is a favorite of the student-athletes at the Governor's School. However, students of all levels of physical fitness will enjoy the physical and academic rigor of the course.
