SAI Organises Sports Science Workshop For Combat Sports Coaches

SAI organises sports science workshop for combat sports coaches (Image Source: IANS)

Honourable Union Sports Minister Dr: The Sports Authority of India (SAI) on Wednesday launched a four-day Sports Sciences Workshop for combat sports coaches at its Sports Science Division in New Delhi.

The workshop was attended by SAI coaches from key combat sports disciplines including Boxing, Wrestling and Judo, and aims to strengthen the integration of sports science into daily coaching practices.

Designed as an immersive and hands-on programme, the workshop focuses on applying scientific principles to training methodologies, with special emphasis on strength and conditioning models specific to combat sports.

The coaches are being trained in functional strength training, plyometrics, periodised resistance training programmes, and core principles of exercise physiology relevant to elite performance.

“Honourable Union Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Secretary (Sports) have consistently emphasised the need to encourage coaches in sports science so these principles are applied in day-to-day training,” said Dr. Bibhu Kalyan Nayak, director-cum-head, sports science division, SAI.

“Such focused engagements with coaches, supported by sports scientists, will positively contribute to India’s medal prospects. Our vision is athlete-centric, coach-led, and backed by sports science,” he added.

The workshop also addressed prevention and management of common combat-sport injuries, particularly shoulder-related conditions, through evidence-based warm-up protocols, strength and stability training, and scientific load-management strategies.

Dedicated modules on sports nutrition, recovery science, anti-doping awareness and applied sports psychology further reinforce a holistic approach aimed at long-term athlete performance and career longevity.

The inaugural session was addressed by Prof. Deepak Joshi, director, Sports Injury Centre (SIC), Vardhman Mahavir Medical College & Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.

Prof. Joshi emphasised that coordinated integration of sports science, sports medicine, and injury management can fundamentally alter an athlete’s career trajectory.

“This collaboration will be a boon for India’s sports ecosystem. Athletes referred by SAI will receive priority treatment, continuous clinical management, and a seamless pathway back to training and competition,” he added.

Prof. Joshi emphasised that coordinated integration of sports science, sports medicine, and injury management can fundamentally alter an athlete’s career trajectory.

Under the proposed framework, SIC will handle advanced sports medicine and surgical interventions, while SAI will manage applied sports science rehabilitation and return-to-play protocols, ensuring priority care and safe return to competition for Indian athletes.

Article Source: IANS