How To Make Your Training Sessions More Alive - Youth Athlete Training Talk With Dr. Ben Pullen
Nov 18, 2024
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In this conversation with Dr. Ben Pullen, a PhD in Youth Strength and Conditioning, and a pro at youth athlete training on Instagram, the focus is on injecting creativity into training sessions. Ben emphasizes the importance of play in developing young athletes and shares insights on game-based training. He discusses how adaptive and engaging methods not only encourage participation but also foster genuine relationships between coaches and athletes. Additionally, Ben highlights the need for a supportive, inclusive competitive environment to enhance athletic development.
Engaging young athletes through gamified activities and creative challenges significantly enhances their productivity and skill development during training sessions.
Coaches are encouraged to adapt their teaching methods based on the environment and athlete needs, fostering a more effective and responsive training experience.
Incorporating structured play and informal competition within training not only promotes individual growth but also builds camaraderie among athletes, enhancing motivation.
Deep dives
Introduction to Yoakam Strength Insider
The Yoakam Strength Insider is an online training platform designed to implement the concepts discussed in the podcast, focusing on enhancing movement quality. The initiative aims to help individuals transition from their current physical state to improved mobility and strength in a holistic manner. Subscribers gain access to a comprehensive program along with an app that includes exercise tracking, instructional videos, and direct communication with trainers. Additionally, a detailed PDF covering nutrition and lifestyle guidelines is provided to support overall wellness.
Engaging Young Athletes
Effective training for young athletes requires a shift in approach to keep them engaged and motivated. Traditional methods like treadmills and repeated sets can lead to boredom and disengagement, prompting trainers to incorporate fun and inspiring activities. Observations show that when sessions include gamified elements or creative challenges, athletes are more productive and responsive. By understanding the importance of making training enjoyable, coaches can foster a positive environment that enhances skill development.
The Role of Coaches and Mentorship
Coaching is often shaped by mentors who emphasize the importance of adapting teaching methods based on the environment and the needs of the athletes. A significant learning moment can arise from challenging situations where the coach must innovate to engage unresponsive athletes. Many coaches must move away from rigid structures and embrace creativity to better meet the needs of their students. This adaptive approach leads to more effective and engaging training experiences for both coaches and athletes alike.
Creating a Culture of Play in Training
The podcast highlights the necessity of structure intertwined with fun in training sessions, particularly for younger athletes. A system of informal competition, where skill challenges yield success, promotes individual growth and fosters camaraderie. Encouraging athletes to experience diverse roles within training helps prevent pigeonholing and cultivates healthier competition. By shifting the focus from traditional metrics to more inclusive measures of success, all athletes benefit, creating a culture of enthusiasm and motivation.
Structural Flexibility in Training Regimens
Adapting training structures, while maintaining key developmental pillars, offers a versatile approach to enhancing athletic performance. Coaches can implement varied tools and challenges that align with specific training goals, ensuring that athletes engage in diverse and effective movements. This approach encourages the development of strength and mobility without the fatigue that often accompanies rigid programs. By allowing flexibility in training sessions and focusing on improving weaknesses in a fun and engaging way, athletes can achieve better overall performance and satisfaction.
On this episode of the podcast we have Ben Pullen - Ben has a PhD in Youth S&C and Psych and runs the instagram account Young Athlete Training which is a gold mine for parents and coaches everywhere looking for drills/lifts and movement challenges for their teams and kids!
Today Ben takes us down the rabbit holes of creativity in training - how to progress movement challenges and why he thinks play is key to development
Thank you for listening - Keep Chopping Wood