Streingth Training for Children

Babyment

Occasionally, we might come across pictures on the Internet or Social Media of children that possess a lean and muscular physique. As such, we might wonder what exactly is the right age as well as methods for our child to start lifting weights? With accordance to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it’s safe for children to begin basic strength training at around eight years of age. This should only occur after they have mastered the fundamental body movements and control. However, since every individual develops at a different rate, parents are advised to visit the doctors with their children to receive a professional’s approval for their child to begin strength training/weightlifting. Otherwise, when a child displays maturity in areas such as being able to follow instructions and showing regard for their safety, they might be able to begin weight training.

Why is weightlifting/ strength training beneficial for children? For starters, the urban myth that weightlifting stunts physical growth has been disproved by scientists. Moreover, public health guidelines often recommend children to partake in at least an hour of moderate exercise each day, and school PE lessons only account for about two or three hours a week. It is also safe for kids and teenagers to use gym equipment as long as they are being monitored and taken care of by their guardians or parents. It is crucial that they are taught proper form and techniques before they are allowed to operate gym equipment. Other benefits with strength training include enhanced self-esteem, improved athletic ability, health benefits such as reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well. Not only that, bringing your child with you to the gym is a fantastic and healthy way to spend quality one-to-one time together.

A noteworthy truth is that your child will probably not gain much muscle despite working out until he reaches puberty. A young child is unable to develop much muscle from weightlifting because the hormones responsible for enhancing muscle growth- testosterone etcetera are not produced in sufficient quantities before puberty comes around. Nonetheless, children will still be able to improve their strength through working out and getting leaner. Obesity is a major problem afflicting children nowadays, and weightlifting can help to alleviate this growing issue.

What kind of exercise regime should a child follow? It is crucial that multiple warm-up sets should be completed by the child before moving on to the actual weight lifting routine. This is to reduce the likeliness of the child becoming injured. Stretching is also highly recommended. After the preparations are complete, a safe strength training program for child would begin with bodyweight exercises such as squats, push-ups and sit-ups et cetera. These exercises are not dangerous and would serve as a foundation for children to start developing strength from. As the child gets stronger, it is time to introduce light weights that they can do at least eight reps with. Once the child is able to perform fifteen reps with a certain weight, they are ready to progress to a heavier weight. Ensure that your child does not attempt powerlifting, maximum effort single repetitions or any risky compound lifts as these exercises may injure children if they are not careful. Ideally, its best for parents to speak to certified physical and strength trainers to discuss on potential training programmes that are relatively safe for their children.

There may be some negative consequences of children starting weight training at a young age. Weight training is often an isolationist activity and parents should be encouraging their children to participate in group activities instead such as sports like rugby, football and basketball. Moreover, there are few kids or children in a gym since their members are often adults. Thus, a child who is training in the gym may constantly feel lonely and thus potentially develop a lone wolf personality. Ideally, a child who is weight training should also participate in sports as weight training is extremely beneficial to one’s athletic potential.