Youth Inc. Recommends: Five Resources to Understand How Much Your Athlete Should Be Practicing

How much is too much when it comes to youth sports? Between club teams, travel leagues, school practice, and individual training, it’s easy for young athletes — and their families — to get overloaded. But finding the right balance is crucial for performance, health, and long-term motivation.

These five resources can help you understand the warning signs of burnout, set appropriate training limits, and support your athlete’s development without pushing them too far.

Youth Practice Guidelines PDF

What it is: A downloadable guide detailing USA Football’s recommendations for weekly practice structure, intensity, and contact levels for different age groups.

Why we like it: It’s clear, research-informed, and easy to reference. Whether you're a coach or a parent, this doc provides a strong baseline for how much time young athletes should spend on the field — and what that time should look like.

Sports Schedules: A Pediatrician’s Guide

What it is: An article by pediatric sports doctor Chris Koutures that outlines sensible sports schedules for kids of different ages.

Why we like it: This is gold-standard advice from a doctor who gets youth sports. It includes specific hour-per-week recommendations, helpful charts, and practical advice for parents trying to juggle multiple sports or seasons.

How Much Is Too Much?

What it is: An article that walks through the signs of overtraining and how to manage the emotional and physical demands of youth sports.

Why we like it: It breaks down burnout in a way that’s easy for parents to spot and act on. Great for families who feel like they’re constantly on the go but aren’t sure how to slow down without guilt.

Battling Sports Burnout

What it is: A pediatric-focused piece on the causes, symptoms, and prevention of sports burnout in children and teens.

Why we like it: It’s not just about scheduling — it’s about mental health. This article emphasizes the emotional toll of overtraining and how to keep sports fun and sustainable for the long haul.

How to Support Your Child in Football

What it is: A blog post aimed at parents, offering tips for supporting your child’s training and love of the game without crossing into overbearing territory.

Why we like it: It’s a thoughtful reminder that “more” isn’t always better. This resource helps parents find their role in the training process — not as pushers, but as partners.