ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies the gender-specific physiological and anatomical considerations that a coach or strength and conditioning professional should consider before designing a training program. Coaches should assess the needs of each athlete, male or female, individually, and train that athlete accordingly. The chapter provides the nutritional considerations specific to women and explains the effect of the menstrual cycle on athletic performance and physical activity. There are many points to reflect upon when attempting to understand the social stigmas that women encounter when considering whether to begin and adhere to a strength training program. The chapter outlines the factors that affect an exercising pregnant woman and explains strength and power relationships as a function of gender and age. It helps the reader to understand the effect of strength training on bone mineral density in women and older adults. Training programs for older adults should include resistance training, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory endurance.
