Less "Screen Time" - More Activity ! The Fine Margins in sport is a thin line BUT it's the difference between SUCCESS and FAILURE.
- Ian Young
- Feb 20
- 3 min read
In the world of “sports”, particularly for young athletes, the fine margins and competitive nature of match days / competition days are crucial for their development.
Without realising it there is a very thin line between success and defeat - take a sprinter or a swimmer for example - a winning margin of 0.01 secs, or a footballer even to steal half a yard of acceleration - those FINE MARGINS can define careers and impact lives! Recognising these subtle yet crucial elements is vital for athletes and their coaches, affecting not just performance but also the overall approach to training.
As competition intensifies it becomes increasingly important to introduce strength and conditioning programs to young athletes to help the progression and development further. Effective training can vastly improve physical abilities and cultivate mental toughness, allowing athletes to shine in high-pressure situations.
Yet, the challenge remains: how do we promote a more active lifestyle among today’s youth? Something I've been thinking about and had stern words with all my young athletes at the Peak Performance Academy last Sunday about their "screen time".
The Importance of Fine Margins in Sport
When every athlete reaches a similar skill level, what distinguishes the winners is the fine-tuning of their techniques and mental fortitude. For instance, in a recent study, 78% of successful athletes credited their regular training sessions for helping them achieve peak performance on competition days. Strengthening their skills, mental resilience, and overall fitness ensures that they capitalise on any advantage, however small it may be.
Introducing Strength and Conditioning to Young Athletes
Implementing structured strength and conditioning programs for youth athletes is 100% essential. These programs contribute to physical development, and they also impart valuable lessons about commitment and perseverance. Research shows that young athletes who engage in strength training report 30% fewer injuries during their growth years compared to those who do not.
It is also crucial to teach proper technique and age-appropriate practices. For example, a study found that athletes who focus on form during strength training experience a 50% reduction in injury rates. Instilling these principles early sets the stage for ongoing fitness and success in sports.
Encouraging Active Lifestyles in an Increasingly Sedentary World
With children spending an average of 7 hours a day on screens (last week I saw a screen time of over 10hrs in a day), promoting physical activity is more important than ever. This sedentary trend can lead to obesity and health issues. According to the World Health Organisation, 80% of adolescents worldwide fail to meet the recommended levels of physical activity - bad diets and less activity the stress that will be put on our health service in years to come will be astronomical!
To combat this, we as parents and adults must encourage movement and engage with children in active pursuits - be it walks, sport, fitness or sporting camps.
Setting a positive example is key.
Nurturing Tomorrow's Active Athletes
The significance of fine margins in sports is immense. Equipping young athletes with tools for success through strength and conditioning programs can profoundly influence their performances. At the same time, promoting active lifestyles is essential in a world where screens increasingly dominate children’s attention - and I'm talking from first hand experience here as a father to a 13 year old!
By focusing on both effective training and encouraging active living, we can pave the way for the next generation of athletes. They'll be better prepared for competitions and equipped to lead healthier, more balanced lives. The responsibility lies with us to guide and support these young athletes.
There is a only a handful of spaces left in the Peak Performance Academy - if you want to secure one then click the link below or feel free to send me a message if you have any questions.
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