The Importance of Early Morning Training for Young Athletes

This morning, my 11-year-old and I were up before the sun. At 6:00 a.m., while most kids were still dreaming, he was lacing up his shoes for agility training. This wasn’t punishment. It wasn’t pressure. It was choice, commitment, and a little bit of strategic parenting.

The Why Behind the Early Morning

Our coach provided the team with a weekly pre-season training program. My son had already completed three of the four agility sessions, but the last one was still waiting. Tomorrow is a tournament, with the first game kicking off at 8:00 a.m. That’s why we trained early today — to give him a full 24 hours of rest and recovery before game day.

Parenting Through Support, Not Pressure

It’s crucial to remember: kids need to want it themselves. We can encourage, enable, and guide, but the fire has to come from them. If we push too hard, we risk burning them out. If we show up with them — waking up early, setting up cones, clapping through each rep — they learn discipline without resentment.

The Agility Square Drill: Simple Yet Effective

Setup

• Place 4 cones in a square, with each side 10 feet apart.

  
  

Execution

1. Sprint diagonally across the square as fast as possible.

2. Back pedal along the side line to the next corner.

3. Sprint diagonally back to the opposite corner.

4. Back pedal along the final side.

5. That’s 1 round — repeat for your desired number of sets.

   
   

This short, sharp drill builds both speed and coordination while improving footwork under fatigue.

The Bigger Picture: Balancing Training and Recovery

Athletes, especially young ones, don’t just grow in training — they grow in rest. Proper recovery allows the body to adapt, the muscles to repair, and the mind to reset.

The Role of Recovery in Athletic Development

Recovery is often overlooked in youth sports. Many young athletes feel the pressure to train harder and longer. However, rest is just as important as training. It helps prevent injuries and promotes long-term success.

Signs Your Child Needs a Break

Look for signs of fatigue or burnout. If your child seems less enthusiastic about training or is frequently complaining of soreness, it might be time to dial back. Encourage them to listen to their bodies.

My Takeaway for Parents

Support isn’t just about showing up. It’s about knowing when to push, when to rest, and how to teach our kids that both matter. The balance between training and recovery is essential for their development.

Encouraging Independence in Young Athletes

As parents, we can foster independence in our children. Encourage them to set their own goals and take ownership of their training. This will instill a sense of responsibility and commitment.

What About You?

How do you balance supporting your young athlete without overloading them? Share your thoughts and experiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, early morning training can be a valuable experience for young athletes. It teaches discipline, commitment, and the importance of preparation. However, it’s equally important to prioritize recovery. By finding the right balance, we can help our children thrive in their athletic pursuits.

For more tips on youth sports and training, check out this resource.