Wwe learned from Dr. Stacy Sims’ “Women are Not Small Men” Beta Course that the onset of puberty in young women can cause a temporary decline in coordination and balance as the pelvis widens in response to estrogen increases.
The onset of puberty and widening of the pelvis increases knee instability and increases the risk of ACL tears and overuse injury. Additionally, body composition can change and related body image issues may occur. The focus during this time should be on technique e.g. drills and improving form for injury prevention, biomechanics and functional strength as well as reinforcing with young female athletes that this phase is temporary.
Additionally, be on the lookout to ensure these young athletes eat a substantive and nutrient-dense diet to avoid low energy availability/REDS which can occur as a result of concerns around body composition changes.
