Taking A Long-Term Approach to the Development of Weightlifting Ability in Young Athletes

Despite previous misconceptions, youth participation in weightlifting is now recognized as safe and beneficial when delivered, programed, and monitored by a qualified professional. This article explores teaching progressions to help coaches periodize weightlifting training for young or novice athletes, with consideration to the theoretical concepts underpinning long-term athletic development. It is hoped that the structured and progressive guidelines presented in the current article will help coaches develop the weightlifting performance of their young athletes in a safe and effective manner.