Question 1

Why ages 6-18?

Accepted Answer

This age range covers the key developmental windows for athletic development. Ages 6-12 represent the 'sampling years' where children benefit most from trying multiple sports and building diverse movement skills. Ages 13-18 mark the transition toward more focused training, though early specialization is still discouraged for most sports.

Question 2

How accurate are the results?

Accepted Answer

Results are probabilistic guidance based on research-backed trait correlations, not predictions. We provide confidence levels and uncertainty bands to help you interpret recommendations appropriately. The more data you provide (questionnaire answers, physical tests, body measurements), the more accurate the assessment becomes.

Question 3

What's the methodology?

Accepted Answer

We assess 11 athletic traits through parent observation and optional physical tests. These traits are matched against trait signatures for 9 sport families based on the physical and mental demands each family requires. Our physical tests are adapted from protocols used by Olympic training programs and sports science research worldwide.

Question 4

Should I re-test my child?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We recommend re-assessing every 3-6 months. Children develop rapidly, and tracking changes over time provides valuable insight into emerging strengths and preferences.

Question 5

What if my child already plays a sport?

Accepted Answer

This assessment can help you understand whether their current sport aligns with their natural abilities, or suggest complementary activities that could enhance their development. Many elite athletes played multiple sports growing up.

Question 6

What about children under 6?

Accepted Answer

For children under 6, we recommend focusing on unstructured play and fundamental movement skills rather than sport-specific training. Running, jumping, climbing, throwing, and catching are the building blocks for all athletic development.

Question 7

When should my child specialize in one sport?

Accepted Answer

Research consistently shows that early specialization (before age 12) is associated with higher rates of burnout, injury, and dropout. For most sports, gradual specialization starting around ages 13-15 is appropriate, with full specialization not until late teens.

Question 8

How is my data handled?

Accepted Answer

Astra Athletics is a local-first application. All assessment data is stored in your browser's local storage and never sent to our servers. Your data stays on your device and under your control.

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