ABSTRACT
Australian Football is the most popular football code in Australia, heralded internationally as a pioneer in player preparation because of the athleticism and fitness required to compete at the top levels of the sport. This chapter provides a background needs analysis and explanation of the training and competition demands of the sport; explores the organization of the preparation and the individual questions that must be addressed by the strength and conditioning coach working within the sport, or any other sport; and provides practical examples of how to problem-solve the competing the demands placed upon the program. The chapter provides further insight into the specific, special exercises and movements that can enable further athletic development beyond traditional strength training methods. The aim of this chapter is to provide expert commentary for the strength and conditioning coach working with Australian Football and to importantly reiterate the importance of a strong coaching skillset and ability to consider the entire program beyond the individual physical demands placed upon the players.
