conditioning

1 of 2

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

conditioning

2 of 2

present participle of condition entry 2

Synonyms of conditioning

Noun

• activity
• exertion
• exercise

Examples of conditioning in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

Temperatures are expected to rise to around 15 degrees above average, creating potentially life-threatening conditions for those without access to air conditioning. — Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 2 Oct. 2026

This included building new restrooms, upgrading old fire alarm systems and the elevator, installing air conditioning and responding to other health, safety and accessibility issues, according to previous reporting in The State Hornet. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026

When temperatures soar, the city’s recreation centers welcome residents who lack air conditioning. — Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

In 2018, Maryland football player Jordan McNair suffered an exertional heatstroke during a football conditioning workout. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 30 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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