Week 8 - Developmental Considerations for Adolescents Movements

Physical Considerations

physical activity participation is changing

• may be less active, may specialize, make choice based on interests

sex-based differences in growth spurt lead to considerable differences in ability

• females: onset of menarche, growt tends to slow

• males: growth spurt tends to happen later; growth continues into adulthood

rapid changes in growth & development can cause temporary set-backs

• body parts may grow disproportionately

cardiovascular & muscular endurance

• plateau for females

• steadily increase for males

flexability continues to decline without training

• can enhance the likelihood of injury

sexual development is maturing

hormonal changes impact sleep patterns (can affect mood)

aerobic capacity increases with development of more red blood cells

CNS is nearly developed (improve agility, balance & co-ordination)

rate of improvement in motor ability declines toward end of adolescence

Implications for Movement Practitioners - Physical

• Consider barriers to PA participation (e.g. male gaze - don’t want males looking)

• Normalize physical changes & their implications

• Emphasize the need for stretching 

• Avoid activities that can lead to overuse injuries 

• Agility, balance and co-ordination can be trained 

• Be patient as rate of improvement slows 

• Be sensitive to sex-related characteristics & discomfort associated with this

Cognitive Characteristics

• Critical thinking more established by late adolescence 

• Have a strong desire for rules and guidelines to be fair 

• Can become very egocentric (leading to self-consciousness or perfectionism)

• Tend to be conscious of changing bodies; body image may be impacted 

• Gaining knowledge about nutrition and healthy eating

Implications for Movement Practitioners - Cogntive

• Promote intrinsic motivation & enjoyment 

• Provide increased autonomy & self-direction 

• Foster a safe environment for exploration 

• Explain the “why” of activities

• Encourage critical thinking by decreasing direct feedback with age (e.g. use questioning)

• Include adolescents in decision-making processes

• Ensure participants varying needs & desires are reflected in activity programming

Affective Characteristics

• Affective maturity may not be in pace with physical & cognitive (i.e. they may look mature but not act it)

• Tensions with parents and other adults may arise 

• Friends are a priority but can also be a strong influence 

• Mood swings may occur from hormonal changes

• Approaching major life choice and changes may impact mood & behaviour 

• Exploring their sense of self & need opportunities to express that

Implications for Movement Practitioners - Affective

• Set realistic expectations and goals based on varying maturity levels 

• Promote positive social interactions 

• Be sensitive to the impact major life and physical changes can have 

• Provide opportunities for self-expression & exploration 

• Create a safe space for positive adult-youth and peer relationship building

LTD Framework - Train to Train