Training for youths ?

[50ccMoM]

Gretchen,

My son is 8 years old. He has been racing for 4 years and riding for 5. There is alot of diiferent opinions on physical training for this age.

I never know what he should be able to do at his age. I also wonder how much physical activity is to much.

I have tried to do some research. Information is limited. I have read about how careful you have to be not to damage there heart muscle.

What is your take on this ?


Thanks,

Angie

[mommotox]

I am really interested in an answer to this as well. My son is 7, and he really wants to "work-out," but I don't know what the proper things for him to do are. He rides his bike and skateboards, etc., but he wants to be using the treadmill, weights, etc.

I think he's watched one too many professional racers thanks their trainers or something! =)

Thanks in advance!

[KSS Training]

Hey guys, took me a bit to think out a good response. Training with weights at a young age can be detrimental to growth in some instances. We also have to remember that a childs' enthusiasm isn't equal to the drive of an older rider, or pro that is paid to perform. Too much training with a child can actually be a downfall. Its a very fine line.

Most kids have a decent level of fitness, especially if they ride motocross. When I work with riders this young, I like to work with them in two's or small groups. Sessions typically look more like play than exercise. I use sport specific drills that improve balance and coordination, and keep it light and fun. If a kiddo gets bored or feels there's too much pressure in training or riding, they will quickly lose interest, or feel that training and riding becomes a chore.

I wish there were a simple answer to this one, but there is not. Certainly I could throw out some exercises, but because children are a very delicate group to train, I don't feel ethical doing that. I honestly feel if a child is going to actually train for motocross, it should be done with the supervision of an excellent trainer that is experienced in both motocross, and working with children.

If anything, use the kiddo's motovation next time he wants candy or fast food to your advantage. Perhaps use his idol, and ask 'Would RIDER eat something like this if it wasn't good for him?', or "I'll bet RIDER eats a lot of brussle sprouts so he can be strong and go fast!'

[50ccMoM]

Thanks Gretchen ! Everything you said makes perfect sense. I always tell my son at the track.... (When he is having a moment ) If you are not having fun, we are going home !

OK.... I have a few more

What are your feelings on exercise as a form of punishment ? I know myself and a few others have been known to use push-ups to get our point across. Some days at the track his little 8 year old attitude gets out of hand. He knows we wont pack up and go home after driving three hours to get there. The "just wait until we get home" doesnt work anymore. I'm to tired to ground him when we get there. So I have resorted to drop and give me 20 !

It makes me feel like a Nazi Mini mom. His push-up "form" has definitely improved though.

[KSS Training]

I know a few other parents in motocross and other sports that use the push ups for reprimand. Its immediate, and its not harmful to the kiddo either. I guess it really depends on the mental make up of each kiddo. I'm certainly not against it if it works well.

It's a much better option than the standing in the corner, or biting on a bar of soap (when we mouthed off) that MY parents chose My mom used to make us stand against the wall facing outward, our heels, butt, shoulders, oustretched hands and head all had to stay on the wall. I have to say I have great posture as an adult thanks to that one. Not that I was in trouble all the time or anything:wink: