Speed is one of the most important qualities in football. It influences everything from chasing down a ball to creating space and reacting faster than an opponent. The question many coaches and parents ask is simple: when should kids start training speed, and what does that actually look like?
In this video, we break down exactly what that looks like in practice. From the right age to start, to how speed should actually be trained in young athletes, Carsten Effertz from Tanner Speed Academy explains the key principles behind building speed the right way.
The most effective period to begin is between the ages of 8 and 12. This phase is often described as the “golden age” of development because children are especially responsive to learning movement patterns. At this stage, the focus should not be on intensity or heavy training, but on teaching the body how to move correctly.
What matters most early on is building a strong foundation. Before thinking about advanced drills or performance metrics, kids need to develop coordination, balance, and proper running mechanics. These are the elements that make speed sustainable and transferable into real game situations later on.
A good starting point is working on running technique. Simple drills that activate the right muscles and reinforce proper posture can make a big difference over time. When kids learn how to run efficiently, they not only become faster but also reduce unnecessary strain on their bodies. This helps them maintain speed for longer periods and lowers the risk of injuries.
Once basic movement patterns are introduced, coordination becomes the next priority. Tools like agility ladders are useful because they provide a structured environment where kids can repeat movements consistently. This helps improve rhythm, timing, and foot speed. The goal here is not complexity, but control. Clean, precise steps are far more valuable than fast but sloppy execution.
It’s important to connect these coordination drills to actual movement. After working through ladder patterns, short accelerations of around four to five meters help bridge the gap between practice and real sprinting. This allows kids to apply what they’ve just learned in a more natural and dynamic way.
Plyometrics and strength training
Plyometric work can also be introduced, but it should stay simple and low impact. Small jumps and light bounding exercises are enough to begin developing what is known as reactive strength. This is the ability to quickly push off the ground, which plays a key role in sprinting and changing direction. At this age, the emphasis should remain on control and body positioning rather than height or power.
Strength training is often brought up in discussions about youth development. For younger kids, it should not be a main focus. Structured strength programs can come later, usually during the mid-teen years. Before that, natural development through movement, coordination, and play is far more effective.
One of the most important principles to follow is progression. Training should always move from simple to more challenging tasks. Kids need time to understand and repeat basic movements before adding speed, resistance, or complexity. Skipping steps often leads to poor habits that are difficult to correct later.
Another key point is quality. Repeating an exercise many times does not guarantee improvement. What matters is how well each repetition is performed. Focus, attention to detail, and proper execution are what lead to real progress. This applies to every aspect of training, from sprinting to passing.
When you look at top players, what stands out is not how complicated their movements are, but how well they perform the basics. Their efficiency, control, and consistency are what set them apart. These qualities are developed early, not added later.
Speed training for kids does not need to be complicated. It needs to be structured, consistent, and adapted to their level. By focusing on fundamentals, coordination, and gradual progression, young athletes can build a solid base that supports their development for years to come.
Speed Training for Kids
For a closer look at how these concepts are applied in practice, including specific drills and examples, check out our "Speed Training for Kids" program!
