Why strength training for youth?
Early training programs lead to gains, not just in the gym.
Aside from the physical gains from resistance training, there are many reasons why it is beneficial for youth to begin a strength program as soon as they are ready. Here are a few examples:
Value of Work
Getting stronger and seeing gains takes effort and a lot of it—there are no natural shortcuts. Development of power and speed comes with hours of training and discipline. A youth athlete may be the best player on their team during little league, but competition continues to increase with each level. Those who train hard and appreciate the value of that work will have a foundation to build on as they move forward in their athletic career.
Strength is Universal
Childhood is the best time to explore and discover one’s interests. In athletics, regardless of whichever sports a child pursues, the value of proper strength training will carry across all disciplines. Generally speaking, athletes who train to run faster, jump higher, and perform with more agility and power can apply those traits to any sport they play.
Preparation for the Future
High school brings the first significant level of competition for youth. By that age, children are well along in their growth into adolescence, where their bodies and coordination become comparable with most of their peers. Student-athletes with a good grasp of strength training principles will have a distinct advantage over those without. These athletes will continue to develop and grow while the others attempt to catch up, if at all.
This is a partial list to stimulate thought about the value of strength training for playing sports. What other reasons have you seen where strength training has helped your child or youth you have worked with?