ISSA Strength & Conditioning study plan

Map every Domain 1 objective to a specific program-design decision (exercise selection, order, volume, intensity, rest) and write a one-line rationale for each

Define and correctly apply the acute variables: intensity as %1RM, volume load, rest interval, tempo, and frequency, with a worked numeric example for each

Distinguish the primary energy systems and match each to a realistic work-to-rest ratio for a strength, power, and conditioning session

Build a 4-week linear block for a hypothetical intermediate athlete, then justify each progression decision in writing

Compare linear, undulating, and block periodization and state one athlete scenario where each is the better fit

Apply the force-velocity curve to order exercises within a session and defend the ordering against a common objection

Explain the stretch-shortening cycle and translate it into concrete plyometric progressions with volume caps

Calculate a weekly volume load and identify the point at which the plan exceeds a stated recovery budget

Write speed and agility progressions that sequence acceleration, max-velocity, and change-of-direction work across a week

Design a concurrent training week that manages the interference effect between heavy strength and high-volume conditioning

Apply the principle of specificity and dynamic correspondence to select exercises that transfer to a named sport skill

Draft a deload week and justify the volume and intensity reductions with reference to fatigue and fitness curves

Select valid and reliable field tests for strength, power, speed, and endurance and state the measurement error you would tolerate for each

Compute and interpret relative strength ratios and left-right asymmetries from sample athlete data

Set up a simple progression rule (when to add load, when to hold, when to regress) and apply it to three weeks of mock data

Identify the most common testing errors and write a pre-test standardization checklist to prevent them

Interpret a mock athlete profile (test results, training age, injury history) and convert it into ranked training priorities

Practice reading trend data rather than single sessions, and write a short note explaining a plateau using the data

Define readiness monitoring metrics and specify the action threshold for each

Build a reassessment schedule across an 8-week block and justify each checkpoint

Write a client intake script that surfaces goals, constraints, medical red flags, and adherence risks in under 15 minutes

Adapt coaching cues for a visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learner and demonstrate each in a written transcript

Apply motivational interviewing moves (open questions, reflections, summarizing) to a resistance-to-change scenario

Draft a scope-of-practice statement covering when to refer out and how to document it

Design a behavior-change and adherence plan for a client with a realistic dropout risk factor

Write progress-review language that reports data without demoralizing the client, using two contrasting examples

Resolve an ethical scenario involving a client requesting an unsafe progression, documenting the decision path

Create a feedback loop that ties assessment data back into program adjustments the client can see

Integrate all four domains into one end-to-end case: assessment, program design, coaching, and progression

Timed self-test across all domains and log every missed concept by domain

Rewrite your weakest three explanations from memory without notes

Audit your notes against the domain weightings and close any remaining gaps in Domains 1 and 2