conditioning

Definition

The process of training your mind or body to respond a certain way through repeated exposure—Pavlov's dogs knew this instinctively, and now your fitness instructor won't shut up about it. It's behavioral modification wearing a gym membership.

Example Usage

The athlete underwent intensive conditioning to build explosive power for the upcoming season.

Source: Psychology and sports science terminology

Related Terms

Beginner

contraction

In fitness terms, what your muscle does when it's actually working—shortening under tension to create movement. Not to be confused with economic contractions (your wallet getting lighter) or labor contractions (a completely different kind of pain), though all three can make you sweat profusely.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Intermediate

Antagonist Pairing

Alternating between opposing muscle groups (chest/back, biceps/triceps). Training efficiency while one muscle recovers.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Beginner

beach muscles

Muscles emphasized for aesthetic appearance rather than functional strength—typically chest, arms, and abs—that look impressive shirtless but contribute minimally to actual athletic performance or real-world utility.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Beginner

pronated grip

A hand position where palms face away from the body, also called an overhand grip. The standard grip for pull-ups that makes biceps sad and forearms scream.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Advanced

time under load

The total time your muscles spend under tension during a workout session or specific exercise, measured by people who apparently have the mental bandwidth to count seconds while their muscles are screaming. Related to 'time under tension' but encompasses the full training session.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

Intermediate

race pace

The target speed you aim to maintain during a competition, typically practiced in training to build familiarity and confidence. Hope disguised as a number.

⚽ Sports / Fitness

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