Is it too early to condemn early specialisation? - a conversation with Joe Baker and Sandy Mosher

Feb 14, 2021
1 min read

Joe Baker is Professor at the School of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University. He makes a welcome return to the podcast along with his research associate, Alexandra 'Sandy' Mosher.

Joe's research team focuses on optimal human development to understand how someone gets to, and stays at, the highest levels of performance. His previous research in this area has considered various psychosocial and environmental factors influencing athletic skill development across a range of sports to catalogue the extensive range of factors affecting an athlete's capacity to maximize their potential.

In this episode with unpack some fascinating new research which challenges the commonly held suggestion that early specialisation is "the villain of talent development", how it might be possible to experience 'healthy early specialisation' and why the link between early specialisation and burnout and injury is not what we think it is.

It is a fascinating discussion...

I hope you enjoy

15 Comments

Unknown member

3 days ago

The discussion between Joe Baker and Sandy Mosher on the nuances of early specialization versus diversification in sports is incredibly thought-provoking. It’s refreshing to see such a balanced take on how different developmental paths can impact long-term athletic success and personal growth.

For those interested in the science of skill acquisition or following a Book series that explores the journey of high achievers and the myths of talent, this conversation provides excellent depth. If you are looking for more Books to read that challenge conventional wisdom in coaching and human performance, this post is a fantastic resource!

Unknown member

Mar 07

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Unknown member

Feb 26

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