BITESIZE #74 | Tim Wigmore: Why younger siblings are better at sport

Little siblings statistically have a significantly greater chance of becoming elite athletes….

This week we have an exclusive extract from an incredible keynote speech from our members club The High Performance Circle with sports journalist and author Tim Wigmore.

Tim unveils his research and explores why being a little sibling helps so much - younger siblings are challenged more, helping them develop the skills and psychological traits that athletes need - and how children without older siblings can enjoy the same advantages.

Watch the full fascinating keynote from Tim by joining ‘The Circle’ here: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/all-content/timwigmore

You can also find exclusive podcasts, keynote speeches and boosts from some very special guests. Sign up! https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/thecircle

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**Title: The Younger Sibling Advantage: Why Younger Siblings Excel in Sports**

**Introduction:**
In this captivating episode, Tim Wigmore, a sports journalist and author, delves into the intriguing phenomenon of why younger siblings often possess a significant advantage in sports compared to their older siblings. Wigmore unveils his research and explores the various factors that contribute to this advantage, providing valuable insights for athletes, parents, and coaches alike.

**Key Points:**

1. **Playing Up:**
- Younger siblings often engage in play with older siblings, which presents a more challenging environment.
- This "playing up" scenario forces younger siblings to learn more and develop skills faster due to the higher level of competition.

2. **Alternative Skill Development:**
- To compensate for physical disadvantages, younger siblings must find alternative ways to compete.
- They develop unique skills, tactics, and mental fortitude to overcome their physical limitations.
- These skills often provide an edge in adulthood when physical disparities diminish.

3. **Mental Toughness:**
- Younger siblings face frequent defeats when competing against older siblings, fostering resilience and tenacity.
- They develop a strong desire to win and find ways to overcome adversity.
- This mental toughness is crucial for success in professional sports, where competition is fierce.

4. **Parental Influence:**
- Parents tend to be more relaxed and indulgent with younger children, allowing them more freedom to explore and engage in informal play.
- Informal play is vital for skill development and creativity in sports.
- Younger siblings benefit from this relaxed parenting style and have more opportunities for informal play, which contributes to their athletic success.

**Conclusion:**
Tim Wigmore's analysis reveals that younger siblings possess several advantages that contribute to their success in sports. These advantages include playing up, developing alternative skills, building mental toughness, and benefiting from parental influence. While genetics and individual talent play a role, the unique challenges and opportunities faced by younger siblings can pave the way for exceptional athletic achievements.