SAI Launches Sports Sciences Workshop for Combat Sports Coaches

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has launched a four-day Sports Sciences Workshop for combat sports coaches at its Sports Science Division in New Delhi. The initiative aims to deepen the application of sports science principles in routine coaching and athlete preparation. Coaches from key combat disciplines such as Boxing, Wrestling, and Judo are participating in the programme, reflecting SAI’s focus on performance-driven and evidence-based training systems.

Focus on Scientific Training Methodologies

Designed as an immersive and hands-on programme, the workshop emphasises translating scientific knowledge into daily coaching practice. Core modules include functional strength training, plyometrics, periodised resistance training, and applied exercise physiology. Special attention is given to strength and conditioning models tailored to the physical and tactical demands of combat sports, with the objective of improving elite-level performance and consistency.

Policy Push for Sports Science Integration

Brig. (Dr.) Bibhu Kalyan Nayak, Director-cum-Head of the Sports Science Division at Sports Authority of India, highlighted that the initiative aligns with policy directions from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. He noted that Hon’ble Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and the Secretary (Sports) have consistently stressed the need to encourage coaches to adopt sports science in day-to-day training. According to SAI, such focused engagements are expected to enhance India’s medal prospects through athlete-centric and coach-led systems supported by scientific expertise.

Injury Prevention and Holistic Athlete Care

The workshop also addresses prevention and management of common combat-sport injuries, particularly shoulder-related conditions. Coaches are being trained in evidence-based warm-up routines, strength and stability protocols, and scientific load-management strategies. Additional modules on sports nutrition, recovery science, anti-doping awareness, and applied sports psychology reinforce a holistic framework aimed at long-term athlete performance and career longevity.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• SAI operates under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
• Combat sports place high biomechanical stress on shoulders and core musculature.
• Periodisation is a systematic planning of training cycles to optimise performance.
• Sports science integrates physiology, nutrition, psychology, and injury management.

Collaboration with Sports Injury Centre

The inaugural session was addressed by Prof. (Dr.) Deepak Joshi, Director of the Sports Injury Centre (SIC) at Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital. He emphasised that coordinated integration of sports science, sports medicine, and injury management can significantly alter an athlete’s career trajectory. Building on this collaboration, SAI and SIC are set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding under which SIC will provide advanced sports medicine and surgical care, while SAI will oversee applied rehabilitation and return-to-play protocols, ensuring priority treatment and safe return to competition for Indian athletes.