The youth or adolescent athlete goes through many changes in life and in sport through the growth and development process. Many crucial decisions for long term athletic development are made during this time period. With the trend towards early sport specialization becoming more prevalent in the youth athlete, it is important to ensure that individuals are competent in a broad spectrum of movements so that they are well rounded and able to perform their sports activities in the safest manner possible. Strength and conditioning training can provide a stable foundation for a lifetime of movement.

When speaking with parents of youth athletes about strength and conditioning, the conversation typically begins with a process of reassurance that age appropriate programming is suitable for a developing athlete.