Did You Know?

That the guidelines for when an athlete can perform weight training has changed over the years?

A number of years ago youths were deemed ready to initiate strength training when they began to develop secondary sexual characteristics, such as a deeper voice and facial/body hair in boys, and wider hips and breasts in girls. These changes usually coincide with the arrival of the so-called “adolescent growth spurt.” It had been believed that doing any strength training prior to this developmental stage would damage the growth plates and thus, impair or “stunt” growth. While these fears were certainly well intended, it turns out that they are unfounded.

There’s no clear-cut line for determining an appropriate age to begin lifting weights. Research has shown, though, that children as young as 10 can participate in strength training without risk of injury. Caveat: It’s of utmost importance that the strength training be supervised closely by competent and qualified individuals. Also, before strength training is permitted, a youth must be able to stay focused and follow directions.