Was out jogging at the local track and youth football practice was starting. One of the coaches was hooking up kids to chutes and having them run sprints, probably 30 yards down, turn and run back. As I was leaving, I asked him what the age group was... 7U. Seemed like overkill to me, but what do I know.
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Gotta get that college commitment by 8U or they'll be considered over the hill...
In general chute training can be effective, but only if they have perfect running technique, which few kids that age have (heck my 14 year old is still trying to learn correct running mechanics). If they have poor technique the chute just reinforces bad habits which can lead to injury.
A few of the kids ran a lap with me once they arrived and the coach told them as I came by they should have stretched first. Said something about stretching being a key to getting faster.
I'll try and go later in the day next time and hopefully see some 7U full contact.
Sometimes it is used as a "cool" prop to improve intensity. The only bad running technique at 7 is walking.
Love this ^ 
Spot on!
