A common theme that you hear frequently nowadays is that young trainees need to get strong.  And while I can definitely get behind that thought process, it has to come in due time.

In his book Science and Pratice of Strength Training, Zatsiorsky recommends up to three years of general preparatory work before getting into more specialized means.

What does this mean to the general trainee?  You probably need at least 3 years of “base” work before getting too focused on anything.  Even if you want to be a powerlifter, you need time working on your movement foundation before specializing in the squat, bench and deadlift.  This is a great time to broaden your horizons – learn a ton of lifts, understand how your body moves in space, etc.  You have plenty of time to specialize later on.

Along those same lines, youngsters need to develop strength in the connective tissues (joint surfaces, tendons, ligaments, etc.) before progressing into heavy loading.  Over the course of those three years you can progressively work towards heavier and heavier lifts (5 RM’s, 3 RM’s, etc.)

Too often, people read an article about getting stronger and immediately start to implement advanced methods like barbell speed work, maximal effort methods, etc.  I believe it was Christian Thibadeau who stated that you should use a program that’s in-line with your current level of development.  If you’re a newbie, follow a newbie program.  There’s no sense in using an advanced program when you’re a beginner.

If you work with young athletes, do your best as a coach to give them a solid movement and training foundation.  Early specialization is a sure-fire way to hamper their long-term development.

Stay strong
MR