MINDSET IS THE FOUNDATION
Building True Confidence in Young Athletes On and Off the Field
Confidence is a word we use every day, but we often forget its true meaning: “the feeling or belief that one can rely on someone or something; firm trust.” Building the confidence of a child helps them feel safe trying new things. Athletics is one of the best ways to improve that overall trust in themselves.
“Through dedicated training, a child builds stamina, skills, and strength—creating visible improvements that lead to unstoppable confidence in other areas of their lives.”
4 Ways to Build Confidence Through Sports
A child with positive self-confidence makes friends easily, feels proud of themselves, and believes in their abilities. Here is how we help them develop it:
⚡ THE CONFIDENCE PLAYBOOK
1. GET USED TO FAILURE
Athletes need to learn how to win and how to lose. Don’t make mistakes a negative experience. Allow room for error and praise your child on their ability to solve problems outside of their control.
2. START OFF EASY
Start every training session with easy tasks you know they can win. Simple drills warm up the body and remind young athletes of what they can do. Small wins produce endorphins that boost them to larger wins.
3. FOCUS ON INDIVIDUALITY
Don’t allow your child to compare themselves negatively to other athletes. It stems back to the idea of focusing on what is in their control. Focus on their specific practice and effort, not someone else’s natural abilities.
4. MAINTAIN SOLID PRACTICE
Practice every aspect of the sport. Our facility focuses on four main pillars: Speed, Agility, Strength, and Biomechanics. Each area builds the mastery required to feel truly confident in overall abilities.
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP
If you want to help your child build their confidence on the track, they need to have support off the track:
- Support them through new activities and exploration
- Let them try tasks on their own without assistance
- Be a good role model and put effort into your tasks
- Avoid harsh criticism toward your child and yourself
- Focus intensely on their strengths
THE ART OF GIVING PRAISE
Praise is a motivator, but too much unearned praise causes children to lose trust in your words. Avoid praising results alone. It is better to focus on effort, progress, and attitude. This will create better self-esteem and lead to long-term confidence.
LEARN ABOUT COLLEGE RECRUITING & SCHOLARSHIPS →ABOUT RUN SPEED PERFORMANCE
Located in Carrollton, Texas, Run Speed Performance is a youth athlete training facility. Started by Jonathan Johnson, an Olympic track star, we focus on all skill levels and give every athlete the chance to train like a professional. Our program focuses on speed, agility, strength, and biometrics for all sports.