Inner Athlete Podcast

Ep. 131 Burnout Isn’t Success: Why Early Specialisation Can Harm Youth Athletes

Inner Athlete Performance Pty Ltd Season 4 Episode 131

In this episode, host Trent invites coach Alex to tackle the hidden risks of early specialisation in youth sport. Kids are being pushed harder and earlier than ever, through year-round competitions, 1-on-1 coaching, and sport-specific programs. 

While early wins feel exciting, they can come at a cost: burnout, injury, and a narrow foundation of athleticism.We cover:Why kids’ limits are lower than teens or adults and why respecting those limits mattersHow overemphasis on competition and sport-specific training can stunt long-term growthThe power of multi-sport play, general athletic development, and varied movementBalancing passion vs. pressure and avoiding false security from early success

Discover why focusing on athleticism first—strength, speed, agility, coordination, endurance—rather than short-term results is the key to keeping kids in sport, reducing burnout, and building athletes for life.

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