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There is a growing emphasis on comprehensive testing in Youth Athletic Development programs.

Corey Green from Athletic Institute says “The implementation of these comprehensive testing protocols goes beyond simply assessing physical attributes like height and weight … they delve into mobility, strength, and functional movements, providing invaluable insights into your child’s capabilities and potential areas of improvement.”

Here, we’ll explore the significance of various tests commonly employed in youth athletic programs and why they are integral to maximising performance and minimising the risk of injuries.

Height and weight

Height and weight measurements provide essential baseline data for monitoring growth and development. They contribute to understanding an athlete’s body composition, which can influence performance and guide personalised training and nutrition plans. Body fat measures are not often discussed in young athletes, only for mature athletes where it’s an advantage to have lower readings.

Sit and reach

Flexibility is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in athletic performance and injury prevention. The sit and reach test evaluates the flexibility of the hamstrings and lower back – areas prone to tightness and injury, especially in growing athletes. Improved flexibility can enhance movement efficiency and reduce the risk of strains and sprains.

 

Knee to wall

The knee to wall test assesses ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, crucial for activities like running, jumping, and cutting movements common in many sports. Limited ankle mobility can lead to compensatory movements, increasing the risk of injuries such as ankle sprains and knee issues. Identifying deficits allows for targeted interventions to improve mobility and biomechanics.

ASLR testing (Active Straight Leg Raise)

The ASLR test evaluates core stability, hip mobility, and neuromuscular control—all vital for athletic performance and injury prevention. Weaknesses or imbalances in these areas may contribute to various injuries, including low back pain and lower extremity issues. Addressing deficiencies through targeted exercises enhances functional movement patterns and reduces injury risk.

Jump testing

A measure of lower body power and explosiveness, we test youth using our state of the art force plates, which reflect an athlete’s ability to generate force quickly which is crucial for sprinting, jumping, and agility. Improving lower body power translates to enhanced athletic performance across multiple sports while reducing the risk of lower extremity injuries. There are only two ways to improve this, the first is get stronger, the second is to practise jumping.

Single leg hop

This test assesses unilateral lower body strength, balance, and coordination—essential for sports that involve asymmetrical movements like cutting, pivoting, and landing. Identifying discrepancies between limbs helps prevent injury and optimise performance by addressing weaknesses and improving stability and control.

 

Strength

Strength is arguably the most important metric for all athletes, stronger athletes perform better, are faster, get injured less (more resilient) and have more muscle mass. We do a range of strength testing to ensure your child has a baseline measure to work from and make the resistance relative to their current level.

 

Why comprehensive testing matters
Comprehensive testing serves as a powerful tool for coaches, trainers, and athletes alike. By systematically evaluating various physical attributes and functional movements, coaches can tailor training programs to address specific needs and weaknesses, optimising performance and reducing the risk of injuries.

Moreover, regular testing allows for tracking progress over time, motivating athletes and providing tangible evidence of their development. It fosters a culture of accountability and goal-setting, encouraging continuous improvement and striving for excellence.

Comprehensive testing is not merely about assessing athletic prowess but about nurturing well-rounded, resilient athletes who can thrive both on and off the field. By investing in their physical development and injury prevention strategies, youth athletic programs lay the foundation for success, empowering athletes to reach their full potential while prioritising their long-term health and longevity in sport.