Iowa State Cyclones: A Summer of Strength and Conditioning
At a recent Cyclones Tailgate Tour event in West Des Moines, Iowa, Iowa State’s head football coach Matt Campbell shared his thoughts on the critical offseason period. This event took place at MidAmerican Energy RecPlex on May 9, 2024. © Nirmalendu Majumdar/Ames Tribune / USA TODAY NETWORK
As the summer approaches, so does the important strength and conditioning period for the Iowa State Cyclones football team. The familiar clinks and clanks of weight plates echo in the Mount Union’s weight room as the team prepares to grow stronger and tougher under the guidance of head coach Matt Campbell.
Matt Campbell’s Approach to Offseason Training
Campbell believes in the power of hard work and dedication during the offseason. He often shares with his players that summer is the perfect time to separate themselves from the competition. He believes that every team has access to the same training block, but not all use their time as effectively. Hence, the emphasis on rigorous offseason training under his leadership.
The Cyclones are looking forward to utilising this summer’s strength and conditioning period to their advantage, much like Campbell did during his time as a player for the Division III Purple Raiders.
Looking Forward to the Upcoming Football Season
The Cyclones are returning with 19 starters from last season’s team that achieved an impressive 7-6 overall and 6-3 in Big 12 play. They’ll be seeking to build on this performance in the upcoming season, potentially contending for a conference title for the first time since 2000.
Campbell sees the team’s hunger for success as an encouraging sign. The team is eager to take the necessary steps to move forward and separate themselves from other teams such as those in Lawrence, Kansas, or Stillwater, Oklahoma.
The summer conditioning session is an opportunity for players to increase their muscle mass and adhere to a detailed nutrition plan. Such efforts typically pay off in the form of fewer injuries, greater depth, and the ability to stay fresh for four quarters. This, in turn, should translate into more wins and memorable seasons.
The Importance of Physical Growth in Young Players
Campbell emphasises the importance of physical growth in young players. As a young team last season, the Cyclones have plenty of room for physical development. This summer provides a crucial 12-week period for the team to grow physically before the start of the season in August.
Following the spring semester, most of the Cyclones players have some time off before returning for the intense summer workout routine. This pre-season preparation is a key element in building momentum for one of the most anticipated seasons in recent history of ISU football.
Even players like Rocco Becht, who earned Big 12 freshman offensive player of the year honors last season, are looking forward to improving further. Becht is known for his self-critique and is dedicated to building his confidence in the upcoming season.
Anticipating a Favorable Season Schedule
The Cyclones’ Big 12 schedule for the upcoming season is quite favorable. Five games will be held at Jack Trice Stadium and only three will be on the road. The team will also benefit from two bye weeks, allowing the coaches to have more flexibility in planning for the season.
The scheduling allows the team to approach the season in strategic blocks, with opportunities to reevaluate and plan for future games. Campbell and the team are excited about the prospects and look forward to building on the experience gained from the previous season.
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