Spikes for kids

Expert Discussion Advanced Sports Sciences
1

At what age should spiked shoes be introduced to young sprinters? They are 7-12 yrs old. I dont think its even worth it at this stage.

Thoughts?

thanks!

2

Depends on their performances and how quickly they can learn to pick up technical stuff. IMO, they should be wearing spikes if they are talented and exeptional.

3

Cool thanks. I just started training a really good track team for kids but I dont want to injure them. I will try them on the younger kids and see how they feel.

4

I had kids as young as 6 wearing spikes. Also, I had 9yo. 10yo. 12yo. who used to run generally better [in training] wearing spikes then in competition [without them]. There are no indications that only by wearing spikes at early age chances of getting injured [relating to the footware] increase. In fact, kids tend to run better. I found also that sprinting type of spikes [round heel less support] are not that good because their heels tend to get sore. So what I recommend is http://www.gymsupply.com/dgs-cheetah.htm inserted inside of the shoe + this type of spikes for kids NIKE ZOOM RIVAL D http://www.peteblandsports.co.uk/trolleyed/32/474/8/

BUT NOT those types;

NIKE ZOOM RIVAL S
ASICS HYPER SPEED

I hope this helps.