How youth athletes can reduce risk of injury by up to 50%

Last week we discussed the goal of sport-specific training and the importance of strength training for young athletes.

But with busy sports schedules…

Is there still time to keep strength training in their routine?

It’s tempting to cut out strength training when your child’s sports schedule is packed.

It happens way more than you think, and it seems logical. (there are only so many hours in the day right?)

But here’s the truth…

Pulling your child out of strength training to fit in more practices or games is a huge mistake.

Skipping strength training is like sending your child into battle without armor.

Every time they hit the field or court, their bodies are under so much pressure,

And without building the resilience that comes from strength training, they increase their chances of getting hurt.

So why do parents pull their kids out of strength training when they get busy with sports?

It’s simple… yet unfortunate…

Many parents are led to believe that playing more of the sport itself is the only way to improve.

But while extra practice is important for young athletes' physical development, think about this…

What’s going to help keep your child on the field–more drills or a body resilient enough to handle them?

Would you rather have them miss a few extra sport training sessions,

Or spend a month sidelined with an injury that strength training could’ve possibly prevented?

Strength training helps keep your child on the field longer by reducing the injury risk.

It builds the muscles, tendons, and ligaments they need to handle the rigors of their sport without breaking down.

In fact,

Studies even show overuse injuries can be reduced by up to 50% with proper strength training.

So next time you’re looking at the schedule and something has to be replaced…

Try to avoid taking out all strength training sessions. 

It’s important for your child’s long-term success.

Have a great day,

Liam.

If you’re interested in learning more about youth athletic developement you can check out my podcast below!