When working with and designing a strength program for youth athletes (ages 13 and under), the goal is to keep it as simple and appropriate as possible for their needs but also to keep it fun and engaging to challenge the kids and encourage their hard work. This balance creates a successful training session, program, and relationship with the athletes.
Strength training is a crucial aspect of the development of a youth athlete. Although this is one of the most debatable topics in the field, an appropriate, structured strength training program has been proven to have several physical benefits. Strength training has been shown to improve bone mineral density and the development of tendon and ligament strength to help better prepare the athlete for the physical demands of sport.