Training and Testing Strategies in Young Athletes: A Critical Review Across Sports Specialization Pathways

As early specialization becomes increasingly common in youth sports, there is growing concern about its long-term implications on athlete development and well-being. This critical review examines current training and testing strategies used with young athletes, emphasizing the importance of age- and maturity-specific approaches to support both performance outcomes and injury prevention. Drawing on recent literature, the review explores the physiological and neuromuscular implications of growth and maturation, the limitations of standardized testing protocols, and the effectiveness of training strategies such as load monitoring, periodization, and motor skill acquisition during key developmental windows. Furthermore, it contrasts early specialization with diversified sport engagement, synthesizing evidence on its relationship with burnout, dropout rates, and chronic injury. Key gaps are identified in the consistency, validity, and applicability of youth-specific testing batteries, as well as in the implementation of individualized training programs that account for biological variability. The review concludes with practical recommendations for coaches, trainers, and sport scientists to enhance safety, support talent development, and promote long-term athlete engagement through evidence-informed, adaptable practices.