Speed Training & The Youth Athlete

One of the most common questions we get from athletes and parents alike is: “How can I get faster?” Whether it's running down the field, changing direction quickly, or reacting faster during play, speed is a game-changer across all sports.

But here’s the important part—speed training for youth athletes isn’t just sprinting over and over again. True speed development starts with fun, age-appropriate drills and games that help build coordination, strength, and confidence. When it’s done right, speed training doesn’t just make kids faster—it makes them better all-around athletes.

What Does Speed Training Look Like for Youth?

Speed training at the youth level uses a wide variety of activities to build the foundation for athletic success. These aren’t rigid or overly technical drills. They’re designed to develop movement, explosiveness, and body control in a way that’s engaging and sustainable.

Here are a few key areas:

🔁 Short Sprinting Activities

• Think chasing games, relay races, resisted runs with bands or sleds, and even sprints in place.

• These activities help kids learn to accelerate, decelerate, and change direction with purpose.

• In tight spaces, tools like low boxes or lines on the floor can create effective speed drills without needing a full field.

🦘 Jumping Exercises

• Jumping is one of the best ways to build explosive lower-body power.

• It also sharpens neuromuscular coordination, balance, and stamina.

• Hops, bounds, jump circuits, and plyometric games are all great tools here.

💪 Strength Training

• Strength and speed go hand in hand. But for young athletes, it starts with mastering bodyweight.

• Activities like climbing, crawling, hanging, and balancing develop core strength and stability.

• As kids progress, they can move toward more traditional strength training with proper technique and guidance.

The Bottom Line

Speed training for youth is about more than just running fast—it’s about building better movers. Through games, structured play, and age-appropriate challenges, kids develop the tools they need to excel not only in speed but in sport and life.

Want your child to get faster? Start by helping them move better, have fun, and build a foundation of strength and coordination. Speed will follow.