New online Strength and Conditioning resource for volleyball players 

It is designed to help players who are new to structured physical training. 

Created by Joel Brannigan, TASS National Lead for Strength and Conditioning, this easy-to-access programme introduces players to the key movement patterns and athletic qualities that underpin long-term performance and injury prevention.

It is available through an interactive presentation that includes videos, explanations, and exercise examples that can be completed with little or no equipment. 

“Our aim was to make something that any player can use - at home, at school, or on court - to build the habits and movements that make them stronger, more stable, and more resilient,” said Brannigan (pictured above).

“This is about earning the right to progress. Once you can move well, you can train harder and more effectively.” 

Why it matters 

The resource was developed after Volleyball England identified that many emerging players had little or no previous experience with formal physical preparation.

Rather than jumping straight into gym-based weight training, this programme focuses on mastering movement, control, and consistency - the foundations that support future progress. 

Programme goals

The programme emphasises three goals: 

• Reducing injury risk by strengthening and improving landing and movement mechanics. 

• Aligning physical and technical skills so that athletes can move efficiently and execute volleyball techniques with better posture, balance, and control. 

• Building all-round athleticism, including jumping, landing, changing direction, and stabilising the body under load

Simple, flexible, and sustainable 

The exercises are bodyweight-based and can be incorporated into warm-ups or short off-court routines, lasting just 15 to 20 minutes.

Players are encouraged to complete them two to three times per week - or even more frequently in smaller doses - to develop consistent habits. 

Volleyball England Indoor Performance Director John Forman said: “This isn’t about elite-level lifting or complicated gym work. It’s a practical first step for any young player. The ones who stick with it will see the difference in how they move, how they jump, and how they perform.” 

Players, parents, and coaches are encouraged to explore the new Strength & Conditioning Athlete Resource and start building stronger, more resilient volleyballers from the ground up. 

How to access

You can access the programme by clicking here.

You can also access a recording of Joel discussing the programme with Pathway athletes and parents, in which he also answers questions.