OVERTRAINING IN YOUNG ATHLETES

In Brief LEARNING OBJECTIVES The primary learning objectives are: • To recognize the risks of intensive training in young athletes • Describe concerns associated with early sports specialization • Provide training recommendations for children and adolescents that emphasize enjoyment, safety, and personal improvement. Millions of boys and girls participate in organized and recreational sports in the United States. However, there appears to be an increasing number of young athletes who specialize in just one sport starting at a young age or compete on multiple teams year-round without adequate time for recovery between sport seasons. Learn more about the risks of overtraining and age-appropriate conditioning guidelines for the young athlete.