Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD)
Windows of Opportunity - LTAD in relation to coaching
LTAD is a long term approach to maximising individual potential and involvement in sport. It highlights the importance of having high quality coaches working with and understanding the development of children and young people as they embark upon their sporting journey.
Although a primary aim of LTAD is to produce greater numbers of performers who are capable of achieving at the highest level. It also provides a platform for coaches to encourage and support participants at every level to fulfill their potential and remain involved in sport.
Overall development focuses on the A,B,Cs, – Agility, Balance and Coordination as well as speed that underpin the basic skills used in many sports. Although these skills can be trained at any age it is thought the best time to work with young people is before age 11 to 12.
The first window of opportunity is speed. Fun and challenging games are used to develop this fundamental skill. This stage is recommended for boys aged 6 to 9 and Girls aged 6 to 8
Young People
Get the basics right and you can improve in your chosen sport!
The more sports you have a try at, the better your all round skills will be when you decide to specialise in a sport later on.
Have fun and have a go! Ask your coach about training in fundamental skills.
More information
There are lots of sources of information on LTAD - keep checking back for new information. You can also check out sportscoach UK’s website www.sportscoachuk.org for a good range of information.