Why Speed Is a Learned Skill—Not Just a Talent: Speed Training in Haymarket Gainesville Virginia
- Command Athlete Performance
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
“Some kids are just fast.”It’s a phrase we hear all the time from parents and coaches across Haymarket, Gainesville Virginia. And while some athletes may start out quicker than others, true speed is built—not born.
At Command Athlete Performance, we train youth athletes ages 8–16 how to run with purpose, power, and precision. Because speed isn’t a mystery—it’s a trainable, measurable skill.
The Speed Myth: Natural vs. Developed
Yes, genetics play a role. Limb length, muscle fiber type, and biomechanics influence top-end speed.But here's the truth: most youth athletes never reach their speed potential because they’ve never been taught how to sprint properly.
Speed training isn’t just running fast. It’s:
Ground force production
Proper sprint mechanics
Posture and arm drive
Strength and power
Acceleration technique
These are all coachable, learnable, and trainable with the right program.
Key Components of Speed Development and Training in Youth Athletes
1. ✅ Sprint Mechanics
Most youth athletes:
Overstride
Heel strike
Hunch forward
Swing their arms across their body
At Command Athlete Performance, we use wall drills, A-skips, resisted runs, and video feedback to teach:
Proper shin angles
Upright posture
Fast, forceful ground contact
Efficient arm mechanics
2. ✅ Strength & Power Development
Speed comes from force into the ground. Weak athletes can’t produce enough force to sprint fast.
That’s why we build:
Posterior chain strength (glutes, hamstrings)
Core stability
Explosive power with plyometrics and med ball work
Single-leg strength for balanced acceleration
When athletes get stronger, they get faster—period.
3. ✅ Acceleration Training
Most youth sports plays happen in the first 10 yards. We train first-step quickness, body angles, and acceleration through sled pushes, starts, and contrast sprinting.
This is especially important for football, soccer, baseball, and lacrosse players who need to close space or create separation quickly.
4. ✅ Consistent Practice & Feedback
Speed training isn’t one-and-done. Just like hitting or shooting, it takes reps, coaching, and consistency.
We test our athletes regularly with:
10-yard sprint
Flying 10
Broad jump
Vertical jump
These numbers show parents and athletes exactly how speed is improving over time.
Why It Matters for Youth Athletes Ages 8–16
During ages 8–14, the nervous system is still developing. This is a critical window to teach proper movement patterns, coordination, and mechanics. Waiting until high school often means you’re unlearning bad habits instead of building clean ones.
Speed is the separator in almost every sport. Whether it’s getting to the ball first, beating a defender, or exploding off the line—speed changes the game.
Final Thoughts: Speed Training Haymarket - Gainesville Virginia
If you want your child to get faster, stop hoping they’ll “grow into it.” Train it. Teach it. Build it.
At Command Athlete Performance, we specialize in helping youth athletes move better, sprint faster, and gain confidence on the field.
Contact us now for a speed coaching session in Haymarket - Gainesville - Aldie: contact@commandathleteperformance.com
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