My DDs 1st year 12U travel team encourages 2x/week agility/strength training. Just wondering when is the appropriate age to start this, especially strength training. She is only 11 and still growing. I'm not sure what's the benefit of lifting weights at an early age. Also, the team discourages playing other sports because of added commitment to training. I'm just wondering why can't she get speed/agility/strength training from playing other sports rec soccer/basketball/volleyball or swim. Is there any research to validate the extra agility/strength training in youth in lieu playing other sports?
By the way, some of these agility/strength coaches/facilities in SoCal are very expensive. I find that they range from $20-$35/class. I'm not sure if this just fitness/softball business just promoting this trend or is there a valid research on this topic.