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

Athletes will be helped with injury prevention, injury recovery, nutrition, and strength and conditioning. —Jorge Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2023

Factors like cabin pressure, air conditioning, and alcohol a naturally dehydrating beverage) coupled with rising elevation can make the effects of alcohol more pronounced. —Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 14 Sep. 2023

The problem of not having air conditioning recently became all too clear. —Chris Hacker, CBS News, 14 Sep. 2023

Folks who use a good amount of hair products—gels, sprays, and serum oils—might need to add an extra shampooing and conditioning day a week. —Popular Science, 13 Sep. 2023

The original window sticker shows a long options list that includes air conditioning, an AM-FM stereo, six-way power seats, and the aforementioned electric sunroof. —Brendan McAleer, Car and Driver, 10 Sep. 2023

Read full article Related: Lacking air conditioning, school districts across state grapple with extreme heat Boston Public Schools students in grades 1-12 returned to school, amid a heat emergency marked by thick humidity and temperatures that soared into the 90s. —Naomi Martin, BostonGlobe.com, 7 Sep. 2023

District spokeswoman Monique Braxton said many schools need upgraded electrical systems to support air conditioning. —Sophia Tareen, Anchorage Daily News, 6 Sep. 2023

Neither had working air conditioning, according to the Tarrant County medical examiner’s office. —Noor Adatia, Dallas News, 2 Sep. 2023

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Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing conditioning

• classical conditioning
• operant conditioning

• classical conditioning
• operant conditioning

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