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
• exertion
• exercise

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

Even after the air conditioning was fixed, the restaurant remained closed because of staffing issues. —Jenna Thompson, Kansas City Star, 9 Sep. 2025

On a recent Tuesday, Crummel and Gault lifted weights, worked on their balance, and increased their heart rate in a strength and conditioning class that featured lots of Madonna on its playlist. —Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Sep. 2025

After getting kicked out of Sul Ross in 1971, Flynt worked as a strength and conditioning coach over the next decade with Nebraska, Oregon and Texas A&M and then spent more than 25 years in the fitness industry while living in Tennessee and raising his three children. —Tim Casey, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

To house the extra dogs, Miami-Dade is using its old shelter in Medley, which lacks air conditioning. —Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing conditioning

• classical conditioning
• operant conditioning

Rhymes for conditioning

• auditioning
• commissioning
• partitioning
• petitioning
• positioning
• transitioning
• decommissioning
• preconditioning
• reconditioning
• repositioning
• requisitioning

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