Compared to older, teen athletes, adolescent and young teenage athletes require a different approach to youth sports performance training in order to build a strong base for future success.
At this age, it’s critical that kids enjoy their training and have fun; while learning the fundamentals of movement and proper functional form. It’s important to start with basic mobility and strength exercises that help the athlete develop control over their body and establish good movement patterns. This can be accomplished through games, obstacle courses, and partner drills that all involve dynamic movements.
In addition to physical skills, mental toughness is a key component of successful youth athletes. It’s best to keep things light and engaging, but also challenge the athletes to push themselves. This can be done through things like setting both long and short term training goals (and rewards for meeting them) or by trying out new exercises that are outside of their comfort zone, but still within their capabilities.
Overtraining is one of the biggest pitfalls in youth athletic training, so trainers need to strive to keep the kids engaged and motivated while still providing an appropriate balance of challenge, rest, and fun.
It’s crucial to nurture an environment of positive reinforcement and team camaraderie when training youth athletes. Making sure that the kids are comfortable with each other, and understand the importance of supporting one another during sports performance training, can go a long way in helping them stay motivated and engaged. And that ultimately leads to better performance and a greater appreciation for sports and gym work.
The Bottom Line on Youth Athletic Training
Ultimately, developing strong young athletes is about more than just lifting weights or running sprints. It’s about building the skills necessary for future success in physical performance and instilling a passion for fitness that will last a lifetime.
It can also help them learn the association between hard work and success—something that will benefit them for years to come.
Denver Youth Sports Performance Training
FAST Performance’s trainers are experts at helping youth athletes reach their sports goals. Our certified coaches and trainers in Denver specialize in working with athletes of all ages to teach them the fundamentals of good sports performance. Through movement and proper functional form, we aim to build a strong foundation for future success for our young clients.
Our small group training sessions provide a fun and competitive environment that encourages youth athletes to have a positive association with sports performance training. We focus on helping our athletes build strength, agility, balance and coordination while also instilling sportsmanship.
FAST Performance in Denver is dedicated to helping youth athletes of all ages achieve their sports goals and reach their fullest potential in a fun and competitive environment. Click here to register for youth sports performance training.
