Part 1: This session begins by addressing the growing responsibility placed on PE teachers and youth coaches to lead resistance and strength training programs—often without formal training. Participants will explore why strength and conditioning must be educational, student centered, and developmentally appropriate, rather than exclusively performance focused. Emphasis is placed on grounding instruction in scientific principles, student interests, and long-term physical development and enjoyment. Key topics include effective class management and organization, establishing a safe training environment, embedding technique instruction into lessons, and promoting physical literacy through clear routines, progressions, and expectations. Structured resistance training is framed as a tool for learning, confidence building, and engagement—not just physical outcomes.
Part 2 focuses on practical strategies for implementation within PE and youth sport settings. Participants will examine how to individualize programming, manage diverse ability levels, and integrate S&C into a physical literacy pathway and developmental framework that supports competence, motivation, and lifelong physical activity. The session will highlight how poorly structured or age-inappropriate training contributes to injury and student disengagement—and how intentional organization and inclusive practices can counter these risks. Time will be dedicated to self-program evaluation, allowing participants to reflect on their current practices, identify strengths and gaps, and develop actionable next steps to improve instruction, safety, and meaningful participation for all students.
