conditioning

con·di·tion·ing

noun \-ˈdi-sh(ə-)niŋ\

Definition of CONDITIONING

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

Examples of CONDITIONING

1. the team's excellent physical conditioning
2. With the proper conditioning, the horse will learn to trust and obey its handler.

First Known Use of CONDITIONING

1861

Related to CONDITIONING

Synonyms

activity, exercise, exertion

Related Words

training, warm-up, workout; toning, trimming; aerobics, athletics, bodybuilding, body mechanics, calisthenics, gymnastics, isometrics, plyometrics, slimnastics, weight lifting; physical therapy

conditioning

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Process in which the frequency or predictability of a behavioral response is increased through reinforcement (i.e., a stimulus or a reward for the desired response). Classical, or respondent, conditioning, which involves stimulus substitution, is based on the work of Ivan Pavlov, who conditioned dogs by ringing a bell each time the aroma of food was presented. Eventually the dogs salivated when the bell rang, even if no food odour was present; salivation was thus the conditioned response. In instrumental, or operant, conditioning, a spontaneous (operant) behaviour is either rewarded (reinforced) or punished. When rewarded, a behaviour increases in frequency; when punished, it decreases. Operant conditioning was studied in detail by B.F. Skinner.