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It’s National Coaches Day on October 6th. Research shows coaches have significant impact (positive or negative) on a child’s physical and mental health. There are approximately 45 million youth in sports (aged 5-18), that’s why we partner with Positive Coaching Alliance.
Youth coaches are increasingly getting kids' yoga certified for several reasons, as they recognize the physical, mental, and emotional benefits yoga provides to young athletes. Here's why this trend is growing:
1. Improved Focus and Concentration
Yoga teaches mindfulness and concentration, helping young athletes stay focused both in practice and during competition. Coaches see the value in improving athletes' mental clarity and concentration, which can enhance their performance in sports.
2. Injury Prevention
Yoga emphasizes flexibility, balance, and strength, which are essential for preventing injuries. Coaches are adopting yoga as part of their training routines to help kids build body awareness and develop a strong foundation that reduces the likelihood of common sports injuries like sprains and strains.
3. Stress Reduction and Emotional Regulation
The competitive nature of youth sports can sometimes lead to stress and anxiety. Yoga includes breathing techniques and relaxation practices that help kids manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and maintain a positive mindset. Coaches find this especially helpful in teaching kids to stay calm under pressure.
4. Improved Flexibility and Mobility
Yoga enhances flexibility, which is key for all sports. Coaches who incorporate yoga into their training programs help young athletes increase their range of motion, making them more agile and effective in their sport.
5. Building Resilience and Discipline
Yoga fosters mental resilience, teaching kids to persist through challenges and maintain discipline. This is important not just for their athletic development but also for their overall personal growth. Coaches find that the values instilled through yoga—such as patience, perseverance, and discipline—are essential life skills that benefit athletes on and off the field.
6. Inclusivity and Accessibility
Yoga is a non-competitive activity that promotes inclusivity, making it suitable for kids of all athletic abilities. Youth coaches appreciate that it can be integrated into training programs regardless of the sport and is accessible to everyone, allowing all team members to participate and benefit.
7. Holistic Development
Yoga aligns with the trend toward a more holistic approach to youth sports. Coaches are increasingly focused on developing the whole athlete—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Yoga supports this comprehensive development, providing tools to enhance both athletic performance and personal well-being.
Given these advantages, it's no surprise that more youth coaches are seeking yoga certifications to incorporate its benefits into their programs. Get the 5 keys to level up performance for youth athletes with our FREE Coaching Guide here.