Dr. Claire Brady: Insights into the World of Strength and Conditioning
Background and Qualifications
My professional journey in sports science and strength and conditioning (S&C) is rooted in a solid academic foundation and extensive practical experience. I hold a BSc in Athletic Therapy & Training from DCU, where I developed a keen interest in the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries. I further honed my expertise with an MSc in Sports Performance from UL, a program that provided me with in-depth knowledge across various domains. My academic pursuits continued with a PhD funded by the Irish Research Council from UL and with the support of the Sport Ireland Institute. This opportunity allowed me to delve deeply into biomechanics, specifically focusing on strength and power diagnostics and sprint kinematics. My research output includes 11 peer-reviewed publications, 6 conference proceedings, and a notable abstract shortlisted for the Doctoral Award at the National Strength and Conditioning Association Conference (NCSA). Finally, I am an accredited NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
Current Role and Responsibilities
Currently, I work as a Strength and Conditioning Consultant at the Sport Ireland Institute, where I work with Olympic and Paralympic athletes. My primary responsibilities include designing and delivering tailored S&C programs, conducting specialist testing in strength and power diagnostics and speed development, and collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team of physiotherapists, nutritionists, psychologists, physiologists, medical and life skills staff. I am the lead S&C coach for the senior international badminton players, endurance track and field athletes, and a clay pigeon shooter. In the past, I have worked with the senior women’s hockey team, that competed in the Tokyo Olympic Games as well as various track and field athletes across junior, senior, and Paralympic levels. My role involves regular communication with coaches, managers, and performance directors, developing testing protocols, and creating reporting systems to monitor and enhance athlete performance. Part of my role involves disseminating research findings to colleagues which drives our coaching and testing methodologies. This research-informed approach ensures that our practices are grounded in the latest scientific evidence, enhancing the effectiveness of our training programs.
Advice for Aspiring S&C Professionals
For those aspiring to enter the field of S&C, my advice is to cultivate a strong academic foundation while actively seeking practical experience. Some key tips:
Pursue Relevant Education: obtain a degree and certifications that provide a comprehensive understanding of sports science, biomechanics, and physiology.
Engage in Research: stay alongside the latest research and contribute to the scientific community through publications and conference presentations.
Gain Practical Experience: work with diverse athlete populations to develop a versatile skill set and ask plenty of questions. Internships can provide invaluable hands-on experience.
Foster Multidisciplinary Collaboration: work closely with other professionals such as physiotherapists, nutritionists, and psychologists to adopt a holistic approach to athlete development.
Continuous Learning: the field of sports science is ever-evolving, commit to lifelong learning through professional development courses, workshops, and seminars.
By integrating these practices, you can build a successful career in S&C, contributing to the performance and well-being of athletes at all levels.