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

From $322 per night. Perks: Infinity pool, beach access, air conditioning, smart TV This two-bedroom home offers the best of both worlds: a living room set up with a movie-night-worthy projector and close proximity to the white-sand beach in view from the infinity pool. —Erika Owen, Architectural Digest, 7 May 2025

The clinic has several hyperbaric chambers and a team of neurologists, cognitive therapists, sports psychologists, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches were to meet every day to plan each step. —Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 7 May 2025

The switch from head strength and conditioning coach Eric Ciano after 15 years to assistant Will Greenberg is about implementing new concepts. —Tim Graham, New York Times, 2 May 2025

Son of an air conditioning repair man, Yasir’s work aims to explore the intersectionality of masculinity, migration, and identity in Muslim and working class communities. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 30 Apr. 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