Husky Athletics Strength & Conditioning Belt System
The ECN Strength Belt System is a movement hierarchy system used for multiple purposes with the goal of improvements in overall athleticism and decreases in rate of injury. The belt system allows us to classify athletes by ability levels and deliver individualized training programs that are best suited for them. An athlete’s belt status will also dictate their eligibility for our competitions throughout the year, ensuring safety and developmentally appropriate testing protocols. The system incorporates 10 different movement categories that athletes are striving to improve: clean, squat, hinge, push, pull, single leg strength, power, jumping, stability, and mobility. Specific exercises and weights are assigned to each belt to ensure developmentally appropriate progressions for our athletes. Exercises and goals for each belt will change periodically as the program evolves. There are 4 belts athletes can earn, but an athlete’s journey begins with our Developmental program.
Athletes learn how to perform basic human movements with proper form while introducing them to the concepts of strength training. An athlete must demonstrate proper form with light weights before they are able to progress to heavier loads. Bodyweight movements such as push-ups, inverted rows, and TRX single leg squats are a focal point of the program. Additionally, light kettlebells and dumbbells are used for squats and hinges to ensure proper form for the movements.
An athlete must perform all 10 movements with proficiency to earn their White Belt. All movements are tested out and verified by a qualified coach. After an athlete earns their White Belt, barbell training is introduced.
The Gray Belt is the second belt for athletes continuing to build strength and athleticism. Utilizes various barbell and bodyweight exercises with weight goals for each movement category. Athletes are required to achieve eight out of the ten movement criteria to earn their Gray Belt. For Gray Belts and up, estimated maxes are used as their goals (athletes are NOT testing their one rep max to achieve ANY of the belt system criteria).
The Black Belt is the goal belt for many upperclassmen and varsity athletes. At this point, the athlete is making significant progress in their strength and overall athleticism. Again, an athlete needs to achieve eight out of the ten criteria to earn their Black Belt. When an athlete earns their Black Belt, we move to a more advanced program to ensure continued progress for each athlete.
The Blue Belt is the highest and most elite belt. It is only achievable by incredible athletes. Signifies an elite level of strength and athleticism. When an athlete earns their Blue Belt, more advanced protocols and training tactics are implemented.
How does an athlete earn a belt?
Athletes naturally work to achieve their belts as they follow our workout programs. We utilize an app called Teambuildr to monitor and track an athlete’s progress. To officially earn the belt, the athlete must take the appropriate Húsafell stone sandbag around our big rig while the other athletes cheer you on and celebrate your accomplishments.
Click the links below to view the list of all athletes who have currently earned a belt at North.