Conditioning, which can be described as all forms of training apart from those specifically designed to improve strength and technique, lies at the very heart of the athlete's training programme. Written by an acknowledged expert, Conditioning for Athletes describes and analyses the physical elements of conditioning, their use within the training programmes, and explains how each is used and applied, not only to improve general fitness, but also to enhance performance. It considers the following and much more: - Why an athlete needs conditioning training - The physical elements of conditioning - Core stability and medicine-ball work - Aerobic and anaerobic conditioning - Circuit and stage training - Power and speed conditioning, and basic strength training