Last week, I wrote about key considerations for youth weight lifting. You can review that article HERE

I concluded by noting that while resistance training is important, three other core components of training should be prioritized for young athletes (ages 5-12).

These three components are speed, movement competency, and reactivity.

First, let's talk about speed training. Why? Because nearly every sport benefits from faster athletes. From a technical standpoint, the earlier good patterns are established, the better. Additionally, even if an athlete isn't required to utilize linear speed, the qualities gained through speed training still have considerable benefits, such as improving fast-twitch muscle fiber recruitment, enhancing overall power, and learning how to generate maximum effort force.

Next is movement competency, which is straightforward. The goal is to establish proper movement patterns and develop kinesthetic awareness. This includes understanding fundamental athletic positions, center of gravity, footwork, mechanics, and proper form.

Finally, young athletes should have focused and dedicated time allocated to improving reactivity. Why? Because this skill is much easier to learn at an early age compared to teenage or adult years. Reactivity drills come in various forms and should be structured to include visual, auditory, and cognitive-based reaction training. Moreover, they should be fun, as adherence to programs is much easier when they are enjoyable.

If you have a young athlete at home, consider regularly exposing them to these three training components to help lay the groundwork for healthy athletic development.