Is speed training appropriate and safe for junior golfers? The answer is a resounding yes! One of the common phrases in coaching is, "We can teach them to hit it straighter later." When juniors start working on increasing their clubhead speed early, they’re developing a skill that will serve them at every level of their game—whether they aim to play high-level junior tournaments, compete in college, or go beyond that. Here’s why speed training is essential for juniors:
Speed is a Major Advantage
At junior tournaments, the top players are consistently those who can hit the ball a long way. Length off the tee gives them a significant advantage, regardless of accuracy, and that’s why early speed training can be a game-changer. When it comes to college recruiting, coaches are looking for players who can hit the ball far. College courses often play just as long, if not longer, than professional courses, and the ability to generate high clubhead speed is a skill that coaches actively seek.
Developing Speed Early is Key
Speed is a skill that’s easier to build at a younger age. Waiting until a player is 17, 18, or older to start training for speed can make it much harder to reach competitive swing speeds. Early training ensures that juniors can develop speed alongside balance and coordination, giving them a foundation they can build on as they grow.
No Heavy Gym Movements Required
Another benefit of starting young is that juniors don’t need to be in the gym lifting heavy weights to train for speed. Speed training doesn’t involve hitting a ball but focuses on teaching players how to move quickly, which helps develop balance and coordination. Starting this training early means juniors can gradually increase their speed and maintain it throughout their development, without risking injury.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The bottom line is, if a junior golfer waits too long to address speed, they might find themselves falling behind their peers. If their competitors are 30, 40, or even 50 yards ahead, it’s going to be difficult to catch up. Ensuring that speed training is part of their development from the start can prevent this from happening and give them a crucial edge.
Final Thoughts
Speed training is a safe and effective way for juniors to gain an advantage in their game. By starting early, they can build speed naturally and safely, ensuring they’re not left behind when it matters most.
BONUS - Have a junior golfer who also plays baseball?
Swing speed is equally important in the game of baseball. Everything we just said about the importance of developing speed in junior golfers applies to junior baseball players as well. VELO Sports uses the same OverSpeed training principles to a brand new bat speed training system for baseball. Check it out here!
