02/21/2019
Youth training is becoming more popular. Parents & coaches are increasingly enrolling children in gym style programs. Although this is an excellent trend, it is important to identify what exactly youth should be doing. There is a lot of pressure from parents & coaches on kids & SC professionals to βwork them hardβ & βmake them sweatβ. As SC coaches, we know that sweat equity has little to do with athletic performance. Following a structured long term athletic development (LTAD) program, taking youth through the steps of proper movement competency, physical literacy & strength based training will enhance their overall performance & significantly decrease risk of injury (Lloyd, 2012). When looking at different models of LTAD, we may see slight variations but the structure remains the same. In Meadors model (figure 1) of LTAD, the basis is around ATHLETIC development, which begins w/ Functional Movement Skills (FMS) & progresses through Strength to the ultimate goal of Power. When looking at Lloyds model, the basis is more so around PHYSICAL development, for long term gain of the individual regardless of athletics.
Additionally, STRENGTH & FMS (balance, coordination, etc.) should be the pillar components of all training programs (Lloyd, 2012).
The notion that resistance training is bad on the prepubescent skeletal system has been debunked. See no further than the impact a child takes in hockey vs a routine strength based movement.
More to come on this topic π
To further enhance exercise & intensity prescription analyze research on (training age, biological age, etc.)- For info on LTAD & the importance of strength based training for youth, check out the NSCA resources from the likes of Rhodri Lloyd, Larry Meadors, Joe Eisenmann and more.
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Resources:
Lloyd, R (2012, June). The Youth Physical Development Model: A Mew Approach to... : Strength & Conditioning Journal. Retrieved from https://journal.lww.com/nsca-sch/Fulltext/2012/06000/The_Youth_Physical_Development_Model__A_New.8.apsx
Meadors, L. (2012, May, 28). Practical Application LTAD. Retrieved from https://www.nsca.com/education/articles/practical-application-for-long-term-athletic-development @ Peterborough, Ontario