Strength & Conditioning

Smarter Strength Training

Student athletes are supported throughout the year in our Redhawk Strength and Conditioning program. Redhawks have access to high-quality training that is designed to increase peak performance, whether the student is new to exercise or has experience.

"Our strength and conditioning program raises each athlete's peak- the weight they can move, how fast they can sprint, how high and far they can jump. When we raise that ceiling, everything else becomes easier." -Brandon Peterson, Strength and Conditioning Coach

Minnehaha's caring community extends to our strength and conditioning program. We strive to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone, no matter where they are on their journey.

What Student-Athletes Gain

Training that happens in our program is personalized and focuses on safety, form, and technique. Each student-athlete follows a structured plan, and learns how to make adjustments based on their skills and abilities.

We recognize that every body is different.Beginners are taught foundational movement patterns before progressing in intensity.

Student-athletes have access to an app where they can view their personalized training plan, watch a video of the proper exercise form, and track their progress.

Efficient training sessions keep training focused and purposeful so student athletes never feel like they are wasting time.

Safety & Developmentally Appropriate Training

When students participate in sports, their bodies experience a high level of force. Smart strength training in the weight room gives us the opportunity to help the body deal with the rigors of athletics.

Safety is critical in the weight room, and there are a number of factors in place to reduce injury:

• Movement Over Maxing: Athletes are prescribed weights based on their training max versus one-rep max. This helps students move with good form, lowering the injury risk and creating sustainable gains.
• Strategic Design of Space: The strength and conditioning coach can easily see all of the activity in the weight room at a glance
• Coaching on Proper Form and Technique: Clear demonstrations and continued coaching on form
• Foundational Movement Patterns: All teens are developmental athletes and they are early in their athletic career. They are guided by our highly trained coach who understands proper skill development.
• Age Appropriate Progression: There is a place for all students—from those new to strength training to experienced athletes building advanced capacity.

Training Throughout The Year

Redhawk athletes are encouraged to train year-round.

During their competitive season,teams typically train twice per week during practice time. Throughout the rest of the school year, student-athletes are encouraged to participate in the strength and conditioning program 3 times a week. Summer sessions are offered throughout the day, and athletes are encouraged to train four days per week.

• In-season: Goal is 2 days per week with team,high school teams (free for current students)
• Off-season: Goal is 3 days per week, grades 9-12 (free for current students)
• Off-season summer: Goal is 4 days per week, grades 7-12 (small fee)

Strength training at Minnehaha is not about short-term gains—it’s about building durable, disciplined athletes prepared to compete and grow for years to come. When student-athletes leave the program they are stronger and have skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Coach Information

The Strength and Conditioning Program is led by Brandon Peterson. Brandon holds multiple certifications, including Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and U.S.A. Weightlifting.