Guest Tony Moreno, Professor of Kinesiology at Eastern Michigan University, discusses the concerns of youth sport specialization, including overuse injuries, psychological burnout, ranking systems, and the importance of multi-sport participation for holistic development.
Youth sport specialization focuses on enhancing competitive ability through intense training and mastering specific sport skills.
Sport sampling during childhood is crucial for long-term sport performance, injury prevention, and psychological well-being.
Deep dives
Definition of youth sport specialization
Youth sport specialization refers to the process of focusing on one specific sport at an early age, with the intention of enhancing competitive ability and mastering specific sport skills, tactics, and psychological abilities. It involves structured and intense training to improve overall athletic performance.
Importance of sport sampling and multi-sport participation
Participating in multiple sports during childhood, known as sport sampling or multi-sport participation, is crucial for young athletes. It allows them to experience movement variability, learn fundamental motor skills, and develop a broader movement repertoire. Sports sampling helps promote long-term sport performance, builds confidence, reduces the risk of overuse injuries, and prevents psychological burnout. It helps athletes become well-rounded, adaptable, and continue participating in sports throughout their lifespan.
Concerns with early sport specialization
There are several concerns associated with early sport specialization. First, it limits exposure to movement variability and experiences, hindering long-term sport performance. Second, it increases the risk of overuse injuries due to intense training and inadequate recovery time. Lastly, psychological burnout can occur when young athletes face excessive pressure and lose enjoyment in the sport. These concerns highlight the need for a balanced approach to athletic development and the importance of considering individual growth and maturation.
Today's guest is Tony Moreno, Ph.D., CSCS*D USAW 1, a Professor of Kinesiology at Eastern Michigan University. Dr. Moreno teaches courses at EMU in biomechanics and sport performance training. He is a longtime member of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) where he has been involved in promoting the Long Term Athlete Development framework in a variety of settings. He has also instructed athlete development coursework for the graduate coaching education programs at West Virginia University and Michigan State University, and has helped create athlete development and coaches' education materials for USA Lacrosse, USA Ultimate, and the Michigan High School Athletic Association. We have an outstanding show for you today, shining a spotlight on the very important topic of Youth Sport Specialization.
Sport specialization is a structured and intense approach to enhance specific physical capacities and sport skills to elevate one’s competitive ability relative to one’s developmental stage. Dr. Moreno discusses potential concerns and considerations, and sport sampling on today's episode.