This is a good question.

The report quoted former national sprinter C. Kunalan, who spent most of his childhood running for leisure, recalling that he started proper training only when he was 20.

I agree with coach James Lim that children under the age of 12 are simply too young as they are very lacking in motor skills. According to him, 'their movements like running, jumping, kicking, throwing and catching are poorly coordinated'.

I have a granddaughter who is going on to be 11, but I am not inclined to encourage her to participate in sports training.

The Ministry of Education says that 'an element of fun would be introduced in the training regimen'.

Well, no 'training regimen' can have a 'fun' element. Starting kids on specialised training is putting stress on the young kids and would lead to early burnout.

Do not rush them into something that is harmful.

Retnam Thillainathan