Background: Early sports specialization, characterized by intensive training in a single sport before puberty, has become increasingly prevalent. This approach is particularly common in technical sports like sailing, where athletes strive for elite performance from a young age. Despite potential short-term gains, early specialization raises concerns about increased risks of injuries, burnout, and compromised psychological well-being.



Objective: This study investigates the dual impact of early specialization on the well-being and performance outcomes of Optimist sailing athletes. It examines how training intensity, psychological support, and fatigue influence competitive success, injury rates, and academic balance.



Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 36 Optimist sailing athletes aged 8 years and older. The survey collected data on demographics, training characteristics, mental and physical health, performance outcomes, and academic challenges. Statistical analyses, including correlation tests, regression models, and cluster analysis, were employed to assess relationships between variables.


Results: The findings reveal significant correlations between training intensity and physical fatigue, injuries, and academic stress. Multi-sport athletes reported higher happiness levels and better performance outcomes but faced greater academic challenges. Gender differences influenced fatigue patterns, mental support, and study balance. Cluster analysis identified distinct athlete profiles, highlighting variations in resilience, stress management, and injury susceptibility.


Conclusions: While early specialization in Optimist sailing offers pathways to competitive success, it also amplifies risks of physical and psychological strain. Effective training programs should integrate mental health support, injury prevention strategies, and academic flexibility to sustain performance and well-being. Future research should expand on these findings by investigating long-term outcomes and comparing multiple sports.

Keywords: Youth Sports, Early Specialization, Optimist Sailing, Athletic Development, Performance Outcomes