Too Much Sport for Teens and Not Enough Physical Development

We've been hearing from parents about the number of excessive hours teens are training and playing for their sport. Whilst we support them being active, there is a fine line that can be crossed where the sport itself becomes demotivating, monotonous, increase the likelihood of injury and decrease performance.

The maximum hours teens should train and play varies on the individual but there are warning signs which include:

• Not eating as much as they normally do

• The enjoyment of training and playing is no longer the same

• They're getting injured frequently

• They become sick after a long period (months) of high volume training and competition<

• Their sleep is inconsistent/of poor quality

• Poor performance in the classroom

Here's what you can do to improve the situation:

• Give them periods of active recovery throughout the year. So they're not doing anything structured for 2 weeks ie: bike riding, shoot hoops with mates etc.

• Increase their protein intake from animal-based products. Protein is necessary to fight off illness, assist in recovery, and support overall growth/development.

• Incorporate strength training into their routine. This will allow them to do something different and improve their ability to cope with the stress of their sport's training.

• Lastly, monitor any changes in behaviour and the effect of the solutions put in place.

And you know yourself that if you work too much, you become tired, irritable, rundown and frustrated easily. This also applies to your teen.<

If you need help to get your teen on track, please reach out and contact us.

Trent Pirihi
Founder and Head Strength Coach
Inner Athlete Aus