Neeru Jayanthi

Dr. Neeru Jayanthi, a leading expert in youth sports and former medical director at Loyola, discusses the dangers of early sport specialization and its link to injuries. He emphasizes the importance of multi-movement experiences for young athletes and how diverse training can prevent overuse injuries. Jayanthi also highlights the need for supportive environments for kids, where emphasis is on fun rather than winning. He shares insights on growth spurts in youth, the role of physical literacy, and the potential shift towards community-based, multi-sport clubs in youth sports.

Dr. Neeru Jayanthi, Director of Emory Sports Medicine and a renowned injury prevention expert, shares valuable insights on youth sports specialization. He discusses the risks of high-intensity sports on young athletes’ bodies and the fine balance of early specialization versus multi-sport participation. Jayanthi emphasizes the importance of free play to foster creativity and enjoyment, while offering practical load management advice tailored to age. His research highlights the significant differences in injury propensity between male and female athletes, advocating for a thoughtful approach to training.