The Long-Term Athlete Development Model (LTAD)

The Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model is a framework that guides athletes’ growth from childhood to advanced levels. It emphasizes that athletic development is a gradual, age-appropriate process focused on building skills, physical literacy, and love for sports. The model identifies key stages, like developing fundamental movement skills early on and then specializing or peaking at the right times, to help athletes reach their full potential safely and enjoyably. It promotes balanced training, reducing burnout and injury, while encouraging lifelong participation in physical activity.