This article focuses on standards specific to Domain 3: Physical Preparation and Conditioning of the National Standards for Sport Coaches (NASPE, 2004b). It discusses program design concepts that coaches can apply to prepare athletes for the demands of their sport, and is based on both research and best professional practice. Sport preparation has evolved beyond simple fitness- or exertion-oriented training. Many strength and conditioning professionals take a comprehensive "sport-performance" approach with their athletes, in which movement skill acquisition is a priority. These strategies are productive, but also challenging, because the practitioner's competencies must include sport and exercise science (i.e., anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition, motor learning, and physiology) as well as education. A common set of principles emerges when the big picture is considered. The principles are interdependent and straightforward for the most part, although strategic decisions must be made to resolve certain trade-offs. Collectively, these principles are the basis of periodization strategies used to design training programs. (Contains 1 table and 1 figure.)