Kim Wood, the first ever full-time strength coach in the history of the NFL, has died at the age of 80 following a brief illness.
Wood spent 27 years with the Cincinnati Bengals and worked with countless NFL stars to meet the physical demands of the league.
His impact was summed up legendary Bengals linebacker Reggie Williams, who posted an emotional statement on Facebook about Wood.
‘Sadly, I was told that Cincinnati Bengals Strength and Conditioning Coach Kim Wood passed away,’ Williams wrote.
‘No other one person is responsible for turning an Ivy League prospect into a 14 year starting linebacker in the NFL than Kim Wood.Â
‘If he demanded one more rep, I would give him two. Absolutely no steroids! Just 8-12 perfect reps to failure, three times a week, keep a chart, don’t cheat yourself, and always improve, every workout, no matter where you are on the planet.Â
Kim Wood, the first ever full-time strength coach in the history of the NFL, has died
‘Pain is your friend. Only appears when making you stronger. Rest In Eternity my friend.’
Hall of Fame left tackle Anthony Munoz revealed how Woods would judge the strength of players on how they shook his hand.
‘He believed in the hands, the forearm, and the grip. He was on the cutting edge of core work and arm strength,’ Munoz said.
‘He understood the game so well. He understood what part of your body needed to be really emphasized to be the best.’
Another ex-Bengals hero, Tim Krumrie, mourned his passing by saying to the Bengals website: ‘I’ve lost a great friend, great coach, great guy.’
He leaves behind four children and nine grandchildren. Â
Share or comment on this article:
Pioneering NFL coach Kim Wood, who transformed how players prepare for games, dies