Is it better to start learning sports of interest at an earlier age?

Is it better to start learning sports of interest at an earlier age?

No, it is not. The physical development of children and adolescents is immature, and the progress of their physical fitness and sports skills is limited by their developmental level. Moreover, most sports require a certain level of physical fitness and skill. Therefore, the idea that starting sports learning at the earliest age is better is unfounded.

The development of physical fitness undergoes sensitive periods, during which improvements occur at the swiftest pace. This suggests that the optimal enhancement of physical fitness can be achieved within specific time frames through appropriate exercises. On the contrary, failing to engage in the appropriate exercises during these sensitive periods will result in a significant decline in the effectiveness of later exercises.

The order of sensitive periods for physical fitness in children and adolescents is approximately as follows:

1. Flexibility (5-9 years old);

2. Agility (6-12 years old);

3. Reaction speed (girls 6-8 years old, boys 7-9 years old);

4. Explosive power (girls 7-13 years old, boys 5-8 years old, 11-14 years old);

5. Speed of displacement (girls 11-13 years old, boys 12-15 years old);

6. Maximum strength (girls 11-15 years old, boys 12-16 years old);

7. Aerobic endurance (12-14 years old);

8. Anaerobic endurance (13-16 years old).

It is important to note that there are considerable individual differences in the development of physical fitness.