conditioning

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ 

1

: the process of training to become physically fit by a regimen of exercise, diet, and rest

also : the resulting state of physical fitness

2

: a simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response

Synonyms

• activity
• exercise
• exertion

Examples of conditioning in a Sentence

the team's excellent physical conditioning

With the proper conditioning, the horse will learn to trust and obey its handler.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Broncos also made some tweaks to their strength and conditioning staff, as former assistant Shaun Snee was promoted to director of the club’s strength program, with head strength coach and longtime Payton associate Dan Dalrymple still maintaining his former title. —Luca Evans, The Denver Post, 6 Mar. 2025

Strong safety Jaquan Brisker missed most of the season with a concussion, but that’s not a strength or conditioning issue. —Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2025

The Stanley Cup’s journey began in the Florida Keys with vice president of sports performance Chris McLellan, the first Australian to have his name etched into the Cup, taking general manager Bill Zito and head strength and conditioning coach Mike Joyce for a fishing trip in the Florida Keys. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2025

The extra conditioning was necessary after Thomas’ first NBA action in nearly two months. —Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing conditioning

• classical conditioning
• operant conditioning

Rhymes for conditioning

• auditioning
• commissioning
• partitioning
• petitioning
• positioning
• transitioning
• decommissioning
• preconditioning
• reconditioning
• repositioning
• requisitioning

Medical Definition

conditioning

noun

con·​di·​tion·​ing kən-ˈdish-(ə-)niŋ 

1

: the process of training to become physically fit by a regimen of exercise, diet, and rest

Good shoes and proper conditioning are the best bets for avoiding shin splints.

—Current Health

He also got serious about his physical conditioning with a regimen that includes Pilates, weights and cardio training.

—Alan Shipnuck, Sports Illustrated

also : the resulting state of physical fitness

Triathletes maintained their aerobic conditioning while developing new skills and strengthening neglected muscles.

—Marlene Adrian, Shape

2

: a simple form of learning involving the formation, strengthening, or weakening of an association between a stimulus and a response

According to the theory, learning or conditioning is the process by which behavior is systematically and lastingly changed.

—Harvard Mental Health Letter

… aversive conditioning to tie undesirable actions to unpleasant stimuli and thereby break habits.

—The New York Times Magazine

see classical conditioning, operant conditioning