Views

Many people – including parents – are adamant that commencing weight training at a young age is detrimental to a child’s health. It is popularly believed that doing so might result in stunted growth. However, this is a myth. The pressures exerted on the human body during a simple landing are far greater than those experienced during a heavy squat. So, if your kid is playing on playgrounds, leaping out of trees, or launching themselves from trampolines, they will be putting a lot more strain on their joints than they would at the gym while lifting weights. 

There is no scientific proof or study to support the idea that children will stop growing if they lift weights too young. Weight training programs that are appropriately designed and supervised provide several benefits, according to scientific data and study, which include:

• Strengthening the bones and improving the bone strength index (BSI)
• Lowering the risk of fractures and the rate of sports-related injuries
• Increasing self-esteem and interest in fitness

Weight training is not harmful if done correctly. The key is to start gradually. Moreover, it is remarkably safe for children, especially when done under the supervision of someone who knows what they’re doing. 

Performing traditional strength training exercises (beginning with body weight and gradually increasing) is the best way to build robust motor control and coordination foundation. This is significant because it creates the groundwork for your child’s capacity to accomplish more complex movement tasks in the future. Their ability to squat and lunge well determines jumping, running, bounding, and landing. As a result, formalised weight training can help your child succeed in their future sports endeavours. 

Yet, it is important to be mindful of the age at which such formalised training is undertaken. While only active play until the age of about 10-12 is essential, there is some benefit in moving kids more senior than that into organised physical training, as discussed above. Depending upon their age, your child may undertake different intensities of weight training. For this, getting individualised advice from an expert is always advisable.