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Dr. Chris Brooks
Seventy percent of kids drop out of sports before their high school graduation. Only 15% leave because they feel they are not good enough. Almost 70% leave because they were not having fun, or due to problems with the coach. Injuries cause 30% to give up sports. This course is packed full of practical sports science information that provide youth coaches and parents with the practical pediatric sports science insights to successfully retain young athletes and develop their sport potential while avoiding injury and overtraining. We begin by examining the multidimensional nature of coaching, the relevant sport motor performance abilities, the impact of growth and development on motor skills, the gene versus practice controversy, and briefly overview the body structures strengthened through training. Then we explore the athlete's energy supply, where this energy comes from, and how it matures along with the athlete. Finally, we examine the development of strength, power, anaerobic capacity, coordination and flexibility through the life span.
Read more
Seventy percent of kids drop out of sports before their high school graduation. Only 15% leave because they feel they are not good enough. Almost 70% leave because they were not having fun, or due to problems with the coach. Injuries cause 30% to give up sports. This course is packed full of practical sports science information that provide youth coaches and parents with the practical pediatric sports science insights to successfully retain young athletes and develop their sport potential while avoiding injury and overtraining. We begin by examining the multidimensional nature of coaching, the relevant sport motor performance abilities, the impact of growth and development on motor skills, the gene versus practice controversy, and briefly overview the body structures strengthened through training. Then we explore the athlete's energy supply, where this energy comes from, and how it matures along with the athlete. Finally, we examine the development of strength, power, anaerobic capacity, coordination and flexibility through the life span.
Read more
Seventy percent of kids drop out of sports before their high school graduation. Only 15% leave because they feel they are not good enough. Almost 70% leave because they were not having fun, or due to problems with the coach. Injuries cause 30% to give up sports. This course is packed full of practical sports science information that provide youth coaches and parents with the practical pediatric sports science insights to successfully retain young athletes and develop their sport potential while avoiding injury and overtraining. We begin by examining the multidimensional nature of coaching, the relevant sport motor performance abilities, the impact of growth and development on motor skills, the gene versus practice controversy, and briefly overview the body structures strengthened through training. Then we explore the athlete's energy supply, where this energy comes from, and how it matures along with the athlete. Finally, we examine the development of strength, power, anaerobic capacity, coordination and flexibility through the life span.
The optional text manual for this course is available at: http://www.learnitez.com/HighPerformanceScience/manuals/
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/1690dl/the
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1: Introduction to the young athlete
Youth coaches who have a sound understanding of pediatric sports science are essential to the successful development of a young athlete’s sport potential. In this section you are introduced to the multidimensional nature of coaching, and how an athlete’s motor abilities of endurance, strength, speed, coordination and flexibility are affected by growth and maturation. The manual is available in the Resource Section.
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Syllabus
Week 1: Introduction to the young athlete
Youth coaches who have a sound understanding of pediatric sports science are essential to the successful development of a young athlete’s sport potential. In this section you are introduced to the multidimensional nature of coaching, and how an athlete’s motor abilities of endurance, strength, speed, coordination and flexibility are affected by growth and maturation. The manual is available in the Resource Section.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Addresses the critical needs of youth coaches and parents by providing practical pediatric sports science insights
Focuses on helping participants understand the fundamental principles of sports science as they relate to young athletes
Emphasizes the importance of developing motor skills in young athletes through physical activity and training
Provides a comprehensive overview of sports science, covering topics such as nutrition, injury prevention, and training methods
Suitable for a wide range of learners, including youth coaches, parents, and anyone interested in the development of young athletes
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Reviews summary
Science-backed training for youth
According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the science of training young athletes. It effectively translates complex research into practical strategies that are highly valuable for coaches and parents. The curriculum covers crucial topics like growth, maturation, injury prevention, and energy systems with clear explanations. While widely seen as a great starting point that delivers highly applicable knowledge, some reviewers suggest it might lack depth for those with extensive prior experience and note that the optional manual can enhance the learning experience.
Optional text manual enhances understanding and depth.
"I felt like I needed the optional manual for full context on some topics."
"The course felt slightly incomplete without buying the recommended text."
"Recommend getting the manual if you want more in-depth detail."
"Some parts weren't fully clear just from the videos/readings alone."
Complex topics are explained in an understandable way.
"The instructor broke down difficult scientific concepts well."
"Material was presented logically and was easy to follow."
"Made seemingly complex topics approachable for non-scientists."
"Lectures and readings were clear and concise."
Provides a strong base in youth sports science fundamentals.
"Offers a good overview of growth and maturation effects on training."
"Explained the energy systems involved in sports clearly."
"Helped me understand why certain training methods work at different ages."
"Builds a solid base in the relevant sports science principles."
Translates scientific principles into actionable steps.
"I learned science I can actually use with my team right away."
"Translates complex research into actionable tips for training."
"Gives concrete strategies for coaching young athletes effectively."
"The information is directly applicable for both coaches and parents."
Great intro, but may be basic for experienced individuals.
"This is a great starting point, but I felt I needed more advanced information."
"As an experienced coach, I found parts of it a bit basic for my needs."
"Felt like it only scratched the surface on some of the topics."
"Wish there was more detail on programming specific drills or techniques."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in The Science of Training Young Athletes with these
activities:
Review musculoskeletal anatomy
Show steps
Reviewing musculoskeletal anatomy will help you understand the structures and functions of the human body, which is essential for coaching young athletes.
Browse courses on
Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Show steps
-
Start by reviewing the major bones, muscles, and joints of the body.
Course Materials Review and Organization
Show steps
Establish a strong foundation by reviewing, organizing, and familiarizing yourself with all course materials, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the scope and expectations.
Show steps
-
Review the course syllabus, readings, and assignments.
-
Create a system for organizing notes, handouts, and other materials.
-
Identify any gaps in your knowledge or areas where you may need additional support.
Skill Refresh: Research Techniques
Show steps
Strengthen your ability to locate, evaluate, and use research effectively for this course and beyond.
Show steps
-
Review the basics of research methods.
-
Practice searching databases and finding relevant sources.
-
Refresh your knowledge on how to evaluate the credibility and reliability of information.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Identify Mentors in the Field
Show steps
Seek out individuals with expertise and experience in youth sports science to provide guidance and support on your journey.
Show steps
-
Research potential mentors who align with your career goals.
-
Reach out to mentors and introduce yourself.
-
Set up regular meetings or communication channels for guidance and support.
Journaling: Tracking Key Points
Show steps
Reinforce new knowledge by taking notes, summarizing important concepts, and reflecting on personal applications.
Show steps
-
Identify a topic from the course material.
-
Write a brief summary of the topic.
-
Reflect on how the topic applies to your own experiences or goals.
Practice Problems: Calculations
Show steps
Test your understanding of the mathematical concepts and formulas presented in the course, improving your problem-solving skills.
Show steps
-
Review the relevant formulas and concepts.
-
Solve practice problems that apply the formulas.
-
Check your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Peer Review: Presentation Practice
Show steps
Enhance your communication and presentation skills by rehearsing with peers, receiving feedback, and refining your delivery.
Show steps
-
Prepare a presentation on a topic related to the course.
-
Present your work to a group of peers.
-
Receive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Action Plan: Youth Athlete Development
Show steps
Apply the principles learned in the course by creating a plan to enhance the development of young athletes, fostering their potential and minimizing risks.
Show steps
-
Identify the specific goals and objectives for youth athlete development.
-
Research and incorporate evidence-based practices into the plan.
-
Develop a structured training program that addresses the physical, psychological, and social needs of young athletes.
-
Include strategies for monitoring progress, evaluating outcomes, and making adjustments as needed.
Online Tutorials: Advanced Concepts
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of complex topics by exploring online tutorials, videos, or articles that provide additional explanations and examples.
Show steps
-
Identify a specific topic you wish to delve deeper into.
-
Search for reputable online resources that provide tutorials on the topic.
-
Watch or read the tutorials, taking notes and practicing exercises.
Review musculoskeletal anatomy
Show steps
Reviewing musculoskeletal anatomy will help you understand the structures and functions of the human body, which is essential for coaching young athletes.
Browse courses on
Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Start by reviewing the major bones, muscles, and joints of the body.
Course Materials Review and Organization
Show steps
Establish a strong foundation by reviewing, organizing, and familiarizing yourself with all course materials, ensuring you have a clear understanding of the scope and expectations.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the course syllabus, readings, and assignments.
- Create a system for organizing notes, handouts, and other materials.
- Identify any gaps in your knowledge or areas where you may need additional support.
Skill Refresh: Research Techniques
Show steps
Strengthen your ability to locate, evaluate, and use research effectively for this course and beyond.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the basics of research methods.
- Practice searching databases and finding relevant sources.
- Refresh your knowledge on how to evaluate the credibility and reliability of information.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Identify Mentors in the Field
Show steps
Seek out individuals with expertise and experience in youth sports science to provide guidance and support on your journey.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research potential mentors who align with your career goals.
- Reach out to mentors and introduce yourself.
- Set up regular meetings or communication channels for guidance and support.
Journaling: Tracking Key Points
Show steps
Reinforce new knowledge by taking notes, summarizing important concepts, and reflecting on personal applications.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a topic from the course material.
- Write a brief summary of the topic.
- Reflect on how the topic applies to your own experiences or goals.
Practice Problems: Calculations
Show steps
Test your understanding of the mathematical concepts and formulas presented in the course, improving your problem-solving skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the relevant formulas and concepts.
- Solve practice problems that apply the formulas.
- Check your answers and identify areas for improvement.
Peer Review: Presentation Practice
Show steps
Enhance your communication and presentation skills by rehearsing with peers, receiving feedback, and refining your delivery.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Prepare a presentation on a topic related to the course.
- Present your work to a group of peers.
- Receive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Action Plan: Youth Athlete Development
Show steps
Apply the principles learned in the course by creating a plan to enhance the development of young athletes, fostering their potential and minimizing risks.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the specific goals and objectives for youth athlete development.
- Research and incorporate evidence-based practices into the plan.
- Develop a structured training program that addresses the physical, psychological, and social needs of young athletes.
- Include strategies for monitoring progress, evaluating outcomes, and making adjustments as needed.
Online Tutorials: Advanced Concepts
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of complex topics by exploring online tutorials, videos, or articles that provide additional explanations and examples.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific topic you wish to delve deeper into.
- Search for reputable online resources that provide tutorials on the topic.
- Watch or read the tutorials, taking notes and practicing exercises.
Career center
Learners who complete The Science of Training Young Athletes will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Strength and Conditioning Coach
Strength and Conditioning Coaches help athletes improve their strength, power, and endurance. This course can help Strength and Conditioning Coaches understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective training programs that maximize athlete potential while minimizing the risk of injury.
Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Medicine Physicians diagnose and treat injuries in athletes. This course can help Sports Medicine Physicians understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective treatment plans that promote healing and prevent future injuries.
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainer
Athletic Trainers are healthcare professionals who work with athletes to prevent and treat injuries, as well as improve their performance. This course can help Athletic Trainers understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective training programs that maximize athlete potential while minimizing the risk of injury.
Youth Sports Coach
Youth Sports Coach
Youth Sports Coaches are responsible for teaching young athletes the fundamentals of a particular sport and helping them develop their skills. This course can help Youth Sports Coaches understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective coaching strategies that maximize athlete potential while minimizing the risk of injury.
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapist
Physical Therapists help people rehabilitate from injuries and improve their mobility. This course can help Physical Therapists understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective rehabilitation programs that promote healing and prevent future injuries.
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Physiologist
Exercise Physiologists use scientific principles to develop and implement exercise programs for people of all ages and fitness levels. This course can help Exercise Physiologists understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement exercise programs that are safe and effective for young athletes.
Recreational Therapist
Recreational Therapist
Recreational Therapists use recreation and leisure activities to help people improve their physical, cognitive, and emotional health. This course can help Recreational Therapists understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective recreational therapy programs that promote healthy development and maximize potential in young athletes.
Physical Education Teacher
Physical Education Teacher
Physical Education Teachers teach students about the importance of physical activity and help them develop the skills they need to participate in sports and other activities. This course can help Physical Education Teachers understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective lesson plans that promote healthy development and maximize student potential.
School Counselor
School Counselor
School Counselors provide academic, career, and personal counseling to students. This course can help School Counselors understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them provide effective counseling to student-athletes who are struggling with academic, career, or personal challenges related to their athletic endeavors.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people with disabilities perform everyday activities. This course can help Occupational Therapists understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective therapy programs that improve function and independence in young athletes with disabilities.
Sports Psychologist
Sports Psychologist
Sports Psychologists help athletes improve their mental health and well-being, which can lead to improved performance. This course can help Sports Psychologists understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement effective strategies to help athletes overcome psychological challenges and reach their full potential.
Sports Journalist
Sports Journalist
Sports Journalists write, report, and comment on sports news and events. This course can help Sports Journalists understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them provide more informed and accurate coverage of youth sports.
Sports Broadcaster
Sports Broadcaster
Sports Broadcasters provide commentary and analysis of sports events for radio and television audiences. This course can help Sports Broadcasters understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them provide more informed and engaging commentary and analysis of youth sports.
Sports Marketer
Sports Marketer
Sports Marketers develop and implement marketing campaigns for sports teams, athletes, and other sports-related products and services. This course can help Sports Marketers understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them develop and implement more effective marketing campaigns that target the youth sports market.
Sports Agent
Sports Agent
Sports Agents represent athletes in contract negotiations and other business matters. This course can help Sports Agents understand the science behind training young athletes, which can help them provide more effective representation to their clients.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1690dl/the
Reading list
We've selected 13 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
The Science of Training Young Athletes.
In this comprehensive textbook, renowned exercise physiologists and strength training experts explore the latest research on strength training. It is an essential reference text for students and researchers in exercise physiology.
Offers a comprehensive and practical overview of periodization, a training method that optimizes training programs by sequencing training intensity.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the science and practice of strength training and conditioning for young athletes. Topics covered include anatomy and physiology, training principles, program design, and nutrition.
Explains the unique physical, psychological, and environmental challenges facing child and adolescent athletes by providing relevant research on young athletes' growth, development, and training.
Provides a practical guide to periodization for young athletes. Topics covered include the principles of periodization, program design, and monitoring.
Provides an in-depth and up-to-date overview of the field of sports psychology. It's a valuable resource for students, researchers, and practitioners working in this field.
Save
Provides young athletes with the tools they need to build mental toughness and overcome challenges. It's a valuable resource for young athletes and their parents/coaches.
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of strength and conditioning for young athletes, addressing the specific needs and considerations for training youth athletes.
Provides an introduction to the principles and practices of sport management. It's a valuable resource for anyone interested in this field.
This introductory textbook offers a comprehensive overview of the psychological principles that underpin sport and exercise, providing foundational knowledge for students and practitioners.
This practical guide provides evidence-based nutrition advice specifically tailored to the needs of athletes, addressing the unique nutritional requirements of training and competition.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and treatment of explosive children. Topics covered include the causes of explosive behavior, parenting strategies, and therapeutic interventions.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the importance of play for children. Topics covered include the developmental benefits of play, the different types of play, and how to encourage play in children.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/1690dl/the
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Effort
5 weeks of study, 2-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Florida
Instructor
Dr. Chris Brooks
Language
English
Transcripts
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