Do children really need to worry about their flexibility?

It is inevitable that children spend long periods of time sitting down at desks and computers, or watching television. The position they sit in can have long-term effects on their posture and flexibility. Research has clearly shown that flexibility changes during different stages of maturity, and that there are periods during development known as "sensitive periods", where a developing body becomes more adaptable to flexibility training. In the case of young athletes, if the correct bio-motor ability is not developed at the optimal time, there can be a permanent loss of fitness and athletic potential, which demonstrates just how important flexibility exercises are when children are growing.

Whilst children under the age of five do not require any flexibility training, as children get older, the different age-groups have very different needs, so their physical activity must be carefully planned.

Six to 10 age group

During this stage, it is advisable for children to carry out stretches to prevent a reduction of mobility, especially in the hips and shoulders. The spine reaches its natural maximum level of flexibility at around age eight, so care must be taken not to try to increase its natural range of movement as this can lead to spinal conditions.

10 to 13 age group

This is an important phase as children gain more mass than height, and they get generally stronger and become more active, so flexibility training should be increased. Without this, children may get into bad habits which could reduce their range of movements.

13 to 15 age group

This can be a growth spurt phase, and as muscles and tendons do not elongate as quickly as bones, it is not uncommon for children to experience stiffness across a number of joints. Stretches can target muscles that are at most risk of tightness due to bone growth, otherwise children can suffer injuries or develop bad posture. It is common for children to experience knee pain at this age, as the thigh bones outgrow the quadriceps and hamstrings. Stretches can be used to target such areas.

15 to 19 age group

At this age children can intensify their flexibility work and perform similar work to that of an adult.

Whilst the flexibility of each individual is determined to a great extent by genetics, specific stretches can help a young person achieve their potential, and avoid discomfort and bad posture which could have serious consequences in later life.

Why football core strength for youth players?

Pilates is one of the fastest growing fitness activities in the world, as the benefits it can produce are being fully appreciated by everyone from sports men and women, to the general public. It is very appropriate for children as it offers a range of different non-weight bearing movements, which can all be performed at varying levels of difficulty. Depending on the age group concerned, the movements are taught in a way that makes them fun and exciting.

We offer tailor-made training by fully qualified instructors. To talk about your requirements, please contact us.