Youth Inc. Recommends: Four Resources to Help You Decide Whether to Hire a Private Trainer

Private trainers are everywhere now — speed coaches, position specialists, strength experts, even nutritionists for teens. But with all the hype (and cost), it can be tough to know when extra help is actually worth it — and what to watch out for.

These four resources will help you evaluate whether your athlete needs a trainer, how to find the right one, and what role they should play alongside your athlete’s team coaches.

Parents, Trainers, and the Private Coaching Debate

What it is: A roundtable of coaches exploring the rise of private trainers in youth and high school sports — and the concerns many coaches have about their influence. Though the companion article is paywalled, you can listen to the roundtable and a transcription of the article for free.

Why we like it: It paints a full picture: the benefits, the risks, and the tension between team culture and outside instruction. It’s especially useful if you’re trying to figure out how this all looks from the coach’s point of view.

Why Your Athlete Should Drive the Personal Trainer Decision

What it is: An article urging parents to take a back seat and let their kids lead the decision on whether to train privately.

Why we like it: The message is spot on: pushing a trainer on an unmotivated athlete usually backfires. If the kid’s not into it, it won’t work. This is a great gut-check before swiping your credit card.

What Age to Start Football Training

What it is: A blog post that outlines when different types of training — speed, strength, technique — become appropriate for youth athletes.

Why we like it: Instead of just saying “get a trainer,” it breaks down what kind of training fits different age groups. It’s especially helpful for parents who want to do the right thing but aren’t sure what "too young" or "too advanced" looks like.

Do HS Athletes Need Personal Trainers?

What it is: A short video explaining the dos and don’ts of hiring outside help, especially for football players trying to get recruited.

Why we like it: The advice here is real and grounded: do your research, beware of flashy salesmen, and keep your high school coach involved. It’s a reminder that extra help can be great — but only if it complements your athlete’s goals, team, and identity.