Optimizing Performance: Essential Speed Enhancements for Female Athletes
By Emily Neff (Pappas), Ph.D. student
Many parents come to Relentless with the goal of enhancing their daughter's speed on the field. Most often, they request speed and agility training, thinking it's the surefire way to boost her performance. However, it's essential to understand that this specific training approach may not be the most effective for improving your daughter's speed.
In reality, strength is the foundation that powers your daughter's speed during sports activities. When she develops strength in her legs, core, and upper body, it's akin to equipping her with the ability to exert more force against the ground, which translates into increased speed and quicker acceleration.
Moreover, prioritizing strength training also plays a crucial role in safeguarding her against potential injuries. Consider it the key to unlocking her full athletic potential and ensuring she can excel on the field while maintaining her physical well-being.
As parents, advocating for the inclusion of strength training in her routine is a valuable means of supporting her growth as an athlete.
Check out this video our Intern Ari made to explain the relationship between strength and speed for your daughter!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Coach Ariana interned with Relentless during the Fall of 2023. She's a graduate of the University of Georgia, where she studied exercise and sports science - Go Dawgs!
Ariana was a previous soccer player and enjoys applying her scientific knowledge to improving female athlete soccer performance.
With an impressive 18 countries under her belt, Ariana's adventurous spirit has taken her to 7% of the world!
She's eager to dive into the world of athlete confidence and success, particularly in empowering young girls to thrive. Ariana's passion and dedication are a fantastic addition to our team.