Michael Keiner

Prof. Michael Keiner is a Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Sports Science at DHGS German University of Health and Sport since 2017, specializing in strength training for children and adolescents. He holds a professorship focused on training in childhood/adolescence and competitive sports.

Education:

• Bachelor's/Master's in Sports Science (minor: Sports Medicine & Psychology) from Johann Wolfgang Goethe University, Frankfurt (until 2009)
• Doctorate (2011–2015) at Goethe University's Institute of Sports Science, with a dissertation on Strength Training in Youth Competitive Sports awarded by the German Football Association in 2016.

Research Focus: Investigates strength and explosive power development in youth, periodization models, physiological adaptations to training, and strength training's role in endurance sports. Publications emphasize practical applications in soccer, athletics, and aquatic sports.

Selected Achievements:

• Recipient of the German Football Association's scientific prize (2016)
• Peer reviewer for international sports science journals

Professional Experience: Led youth development programs at Offenbacher Fußballclub Kickers, Eintracht Frankfurt Tennis, and Niedersachsen Swimming Federation. Active in elite youth athlete training and performance optimization.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with sports organizations to apply research findings in training methodologies and athlete development.