Should Juniors Train Club Head Speed? Here’s Why It’s Crucial
Developing club head speed at an early age is a game-changer for junior golfers aspiring to reach the next level. While some parents and coaches may worry about safety, the answer is clear: training for speed is not only safe but essential for long-term success in golf.
One of the common sayings in the coaching world is, “We can teach them to hit it straighter later.” Early speed training lays a foundation that sets junior golfers apart, especially as they aim to compete in high-level junior events, collegiate golf, or even the professional ranks.
Why Train Speed Early?
Speed is a skill that becomes more challenging to develop as players grow older. If a junior starts training speed at 5, 10, or even 15 years old, they’re building a skill set that will stay with them for life. By focusing on speed early, players position themselves ahead of the competition, both in junior tournaments and as they progress to longer college courses or beyond.
College coaches, for example, often prioritize speed when recruiting players. With college courses playing as long—or longer—than professional courses, the ability to generate high club head and ball speeds becomes a significant advantage.
What Does Speed Training Look Like?
Speed training for juniors is all about creating the right environment for safe and effective development. Here’s what a typical training session might involve:
1. Dynamic Warm-Up
Juniors start with a dynamic warm-up to prepare their bodies for explosive movements. This includes stretches, mobility exercises, and light drills to activate the muscles they’ll use during speed training.
2. Overspeed Training with SuperSpeed Junior Sets
Using specially designed SuperSpeed Junior Sets, players engage in Overspeed Training—swinging lighter and slightly heavier clubs to teach their bodies to move faster. This training happens without a golf ball, focusing on balance, coordination, and pure speed.
3. Progress Tracking
Speed training isn’t complete without monitoring progress. Using tools like the PRGR Launch Monitor or the new SuperSpeed Golf app, juniors can track their club head speed, swing consistency, and performance trends. The app provides personalized protocols and detailed insights, making training sessions more effective and engaging.
4. Gradual Load Progression
As juniors develop strength and coordination, training evolves. With age-appropriate progressions, players can move from basic speed drills to incorporating elements of mechanics and strength training.
💡 Discover the SuperSpeed Golf App
The new SuperSpeed Golf app is your ultimate speed training companion. It offers guided protocols, real-time progress tracking, and tips to optimize every session. Download it now on iOS or Android to access a free 14-day trial of the premium version.
How SuperSpeed Golf Can Help
SuperSpeed Golf offers specially designed sets for juniors as young as five years old. These tools are tailored to safely teach young golfers how to move quickly, with balance and coordination, without the added pressure of hitting a golf ball. The result? Juniors can develop speed while refining their mechanics over time.
The earlier juniors start incorporating speed training into their routines, the better positioned they’ll be to keep up—or even surpass—the competition. Don’t let your junior golfer fall behind!
Call to Action
Get your junior started on their speed journey today with SuperSpeed Golf. Explore our junior sets and protocols, designed to build speed safely and effectively for young players of all ages.
