Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD)

What is LTAD?

The Government are looking to PE and sport as areas that can make a significant contribution to health, social inclusion, educational attainment and national pride. Everybody, whether a sports coach, teacher, parent or player has a responsibility in ensuring the LTAD of young athletes. In today's society issues such as child-hood obesity and the concern for national well-being are emphasising the importance of regular sport and exercise among young performers. The LTAD model, developed by Dr Istvan Balyi, focuses on maximising player development to encourage a life-long commitment to sport and exercise.

"LTAD outlines a staged approach to appropriate training, competition and recovery programming in relation to the developmental age of the individual. LTAD is not just another plan, is it a philosophy, a real tool for change."
Istvan Balyi, World Wide Expert on LTAD

"In simple terms, LTAD is intended to produce a long term approach to maximising individual potential and involvement in sport"
Ian Stafford, Author - Coaching for Long-term Athlete Development: Improving Participation & Performance in Sport

LTAD in relation to Coaching

LTAD as a long term approach to maximising individual potential and involvement in sport highlights the importance of having high quality coaches working with and understanding the development of children and young people as they embark upon their sporting journey. Although a primary aim of LTAD is to produce greater numbers of performers who are capable of achieving at the highest level, it also provides a platform for coaches to encourage and support participants at every level to fulfil their potential and remain involved in sport.

For further information relating to LTAD (Including resources on further reading and information relating to sport specific aspects of LTAD) please visit http://www.sportscoachuk.org/Improve+Your+Coaching/Long-term+Athlete+Development/