What age should children start speed training?

Ages 7–10: build the foundation

For younger athletes, we want to develop good movement first. Technique. Coordination. Balance. Body control. Running mechanics. Confidence in movement.

These are the foundations that more advanced speed, strength and power can eventually build on. At ASP, we don't see this stage as 'mini high performance'. It is about teaching the body to move well.

Ages 11–15: build the athlete

As athletes develop physically, training can become more targeted. Speed. Agility. Strength foundations. Power. Reaction. Movement technique.

This is where we start building more of the physical tools sport is demanding.

Ages 16–18+: make it more individual

At this level, the athlete often has clearer goals. School first team. Academy. Provincial selection. Higher-level competition.

Now we can become more precise. Testing and performance data help us understand exactly where the athlete is and what could make the biggest difference next.

What we have learned at ASP

Age gives us a guide. It doesn't give us the whole answer. Two 13-year-olds can be very different physically. One may be mature and powerful. Another may still be developing coordination after a growth phase. Another may already have years of structured training behind them.

That is why the ASP Training System develops with the athlete rather than forcing the athlete into a fixed programme.

What should parents look for?

Good youth performance training should not simply make children tired. You should see better movement, better technique, increasing body control, gradual physical development, confidence — and a clear progression as the athlete grows.