23/06/2021
Great article once again Eric Cressey
I'm often asked when the best time is for young baseball players to start a strength and conditioning program, and my answer is simple: yesterday!
This 2019 study is proof that even a very conservative intervention (an improved warm-up) reduced the incidence of shoulder and elbow injuries in 9-11 years old by 45% over the course of a year. Just imagine if you added something more individualized and comprehensive.
The problem is that training - especially at that age - is not as sexy as playing. But it's the seat belt you need if you want to ride in a car. And it becomes even more and more important as the speed of the car (or arm) increases in the subsequent years.
Parents/coaches: don't wait until kids are 15-16 years old with lengthy injury histories before you start mandating good warm-ups and quality training to prepare bodies for the stress of throwing.
