Long-term athletic development- part 1: a pathway for all youth

J Strength Cond Res. 2015 May;29(5):1439-50. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000000756.

Abstract

The concept of developing talent and athleticism in youth is the goal of many coaches and sports systems. Consequently, an increasing number of sporting organizations have adopted long-term athletic development models in an attempt to provide a structured approach to the training of youth. It is clear that maximizing sporting talent is an important goal of long-term athletic development models. However, ensuring that youth of all ages and abilities are provided with a strategic plan for the development of their health and physical fitness is also important to maximize physical activity participation rates, reduce the risk of sport- and activity-related injury, and to ensure long-term health and well-being. Critical reviews of independent models of long-term athletic development are already present within the literature; however, to the best of our knowledge, a comprehensive examination and review of the most prominent models does not exist. Additionally, considerations of modern day issues that may impact on the success of any long-term athletic development model are lacking, as are proposed solutions to address such issues. Therefore, within this 2-part commentary, Part 1 provides a critical review of existing models of practice for long-term athletic development and introduces a composite youth development model that includes the integration of talent, psychosocial and physical development across maturation. Part 2 identifies limiting factors that may restrict the success of such models and offers potential solutions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Athletic Performance
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Motor Skills
  • Physical Conditioning, Human / methods*
  • Physical Education and Training / methods*
  • Physical Fitness
  • Sports / physiology*