By: Ty Cardwell
Does your child’s sport involve…. Running, Acceleration, Explosive power off the mark, Speed between 10-100 yards, or Changing Directions? If so then chances are they will one day have to become involved in a structured performance training program in order to be competitive.
Speed is NOT just about genetics. With the right training methods using techniques that top sports scientists have discovered and confirmed even “slow” athletes can become quick. Modern day sports are becoming more and more about speed. Right or wrong, if you’re quick and powerful you can often compensate for a lower skill level. Whatever your talent, nothing will impact your game (or that of your athletes) like a noticeable gain in speed and fitness. I created my own speed, agility and fitness program 13 years ago and I’m proud of the impact it’s had on my Athletes games.
I don’t think parents, players or coaches realize the importance and impact that a proper sport specific speed and fitness program can have. It will literally transform a player’s game. It can take a nervous, inconsistent and mediocre player and turn them into a confident, game-changing leader.
It’s controversial to say fitness is more important than skill but remember that a player’s talent can only be expressed within the limits of their fitness. No amount of natural ability can overcome fatigue. Athletes can lack skill, but their pace and strength can still tear the opposition apart. The only con to training is…. it’s not cheap. But if you’re serious about your athlete’s sport, then it’s worth every single penny.
