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Strength Training for Young Athletes: Insights from Aquatic Sports Coach Sean Kao
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In this episode, we sit down with Sean Kao, founder of Aquatic Sports Performance, to dive into his unique and highly effective approach to strength training for young athletes. As a former competitive swimmer turned strength coach, Sean shares insights on building athleticism for swimmers and water polo players through customized training that emphasizes stability, mobility, and long-term development over early specialization.
Sean discusses why youth athletes benefit from a foundation in diverse movements—like gymnastics and martial arts—and how starting with basic bodyweight exercises can foster essential stability before introducing weights. You’ll also hear Sean’s perspective on why strength and mobility training are more beneficial for swimmers than traditional strength and conditioning.
Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, this episode is full of valuable tips on how to support youth athletes in aquatic sports while reducing the risk of injury and building a mindset of pursuing potential at any age.
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7 minutes.