What happens if you weight lift at a young age

Before a teen embarks on a weight-training program, he or she should get a physical exam. Once the doctor has given the OK to begin, find a weight-training instructor who understands the special needs of adolescents. Because the skeleton isn't mature until the early 20s, too much weight can stress the joints and ligaments and may separate growth plates or damage joints in other ways.

Adult weight-training programs should not be used for teens, because these can be too strenuous and repetitious. Training typically should include using weights for second intervals, followed by breaks. The teen should warm up with calisthenics and stretching before weight training and cool down with stretching afterward, Dr. Teens should be supervised at all times while strength training, and should always use safe equipment. A teen should never feel pain in the joints when weight training, says Dr.

If he or she does, it's a sign that too much weight is being lifted or too many repetitions are being done. For example shoulder pressing and bench pressing at an early age, no matter how good the technique, is bound to end with the need for shoulder joint replacements because of wear and tear. Same goes for the knees and back with squatting. I feel as though lifting at a young age is definitely beneficial yet in certain amounts. A child should not be lifting the same way someone older should lift.

For example people who are over about 16 should be lifting heavier weights so that they build mass yet a child under this age should go for lower weights higher reps to promote healthy muscles and better definition.

It depends on the kid. It also depends on what the goal of the strength training is. McCambridge adds. If the goal is to improve coordination and strength, then there are studies that suggest you can do it safely as young as seven in a well-controlled environment, where you have a coach who watches form and proper technique and proper progression.

As for benefits, you might not think there would be many considering an 8-year-old kid has neither the muscle development nor the hormones to make lifting weights seem worthwhile, but there are some. There are also studies showing some injury prevention from doing proper-technique strength training. So, there are some benefits. And what is my goal? Kids that play explosive youth sports would just stop growing and we would have strict rules about running too fast, giving piggy back rides and wheel barrel races.

As a matter of fact, kids in elementary school can safely and effectively lift weights to promote health and build strength. The key thing for parents to understand is that a child must be mature enough to follow safe lifting guidelines and dedicated enough to follow a well-designed regimented program. Supervision and guidance are also very important factors as the child learns this new skill.

Daniel G.