In youth development, exercise plays a pivotal role in shaping physical health and fostering mental wellbeing, discipline, and a sense of teamwork. As young individuals navigate the challenges of adolescence, integrating regular physical activity into their routine becomes essential. This blog explores the significance of exercise in youth development and the importance of pre-season sports preparation for teens. It also highlights the specialized programs offered by Maroondah Osteo and Sportscare for teenage athletes.  

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXERCISE IN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Physical Health – Regular exercise is crucial for the physical development of young individuals. It helps build strong bones and muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy body weight (Hind & Burrows, 2007). Engaging in physical activities during adolescence sets the foundation for a lifetime of good health (Smith et al., 2020).   

Mental Wellbeing – Exercise has been linked to improved mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Physical activity serves as a natural stress reliever and mood enhancer for teenagers dealing with the pressures of academics and social dynamics (Mandolesi et al., 2018).  

Discipline and Routine – Incorporating exercise into a routine fosters discipline, time management, and goal-setting skills. These habits developed during adolescence lay the groundwork for a structured and balanced approach to life.  

PRE-SEASON SPORTS PREPARATION FOR YOUTH 

Enhanced Performance – Preparing for the sports season is about physical conditioning and honing specific skills required for the chosen sport. A well-structured pre-season program can significantly enhance an athlete’s performance on the field.  

Injury Prevention – Teenagers, especially those engaged in competitive sports, are prone to injuries. A pre-season sports preparation program addresses muscle weaknesses and imbalances, reducing the risk of injuries during the season.  

Team Building – Pre-season training provides an opportunity for team building and camaraderie among athletes. It fosters a sense of unity and shared goals, contributing to a positive team dynamic during the competitive season (Sani et al., 2016).  

MAROONDAH OSTEO AND SPORTSCARE’S TEEN GYM AND SPORTS PERFORMANCE PROGRAMS

Teen Gym Classes – Maroondah Osteo and Sportscare offer a specialized Teen Gym program for 12–16-year-olds. With a low 1:6 class ratio, these weekly 45-minute classes focus on sports performance, weakness development, and injury prevention through semi-individualized programming. Specific sports and disciplines are addressed as needed.  

 Program Details  

• 45-minute weekly classes  
• 45-minute initial appointment for $115  
• 8 class pack for $200  

Sports Performance Program – The Sports Performance Program at Maroondah Osteo and Sportscare is tailored for adolescent athletes. This program includes individually crafted strength training and nutrition plans to enhance sports performance. It also prioritizes injury prevention by targeting common muscle weaknesses in growing athletes.  

Program Details  

• 45-minute initial EP appointment  
• 45-minute initial Dietitian appointment  
• 5 x 30-minute individual gym sessions  
• Total cost: $550  

Maroondah Osteo and Sportscare’s specialized programs provide a structured and supportive environment for young athletes, emphasizing performance enhancement, injury prevention, and overall wellbeing. Enrolling in these programs ensures that teenagers are equipped with the physical and mental tools needed to excel in their chosen sports and confidently navigate adolescence’s challenges.  

References  

Hind, K. & Burrows, M. (2007). Weight-bearing exercise and bone mineral accrual in children and adolescents: A review of controlled trials. Bone, 40(1), 14–27.   

Mandolesi, L., Polverino, A., Montuori, S., Foti, F., Ferraioli, G., Sorrentino, P. and Sorrentino, G. (2018). Effects of physical exercise on cognitive functioning and wellbeing: Biological and psychological benefits. Frontiers in Psychology, 9(9).   

Sani, S.H.Z., Fathirezaie, Z., Brand, S., Pühse, U., Holsboer-Trachsler, E., Gerber, M. and Talepasand, S. (2016). Physical activity and self-esteem: testing direct and indirect relationships associated with psychological and physical mechanisms. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, [online] Volume 12(12), pp.2617–2625.   

Smith, J.D., Fu, E. & Kobayashi, M.A. (2020). Prevention and Management of Childhood Obesity and Its Psychological and Health Comorbidities. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, [online] 16(1), pp.351–378.