IS WEIGHTLIFTING SAFE FOR CHILDREN?

Children can benefit much from strength training, but there are some key restrictions to be aware of. What you should know about youth strength training is provided here.

Kids’ strength training? Of course! Young athletes can benefit greatly from it when done properly. Even children who just want to look and feel better should consider strength training. This type of activity might start your youngster on a lifelong path to greater fitness and health. Have a look at personal training for kids

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF STRENGTH TRAINING FOR CHILDREN?

Strength training, when done correctly, can:

• Boost your child’s muscular endurance and strength
• Ensure that your kid’s muscles and joints are shielded against sports-related harm.
• Enhance your child’s performance in almost any sport, from football and soccer to dance and figure skating
• Create appropriate tactics that your youngster can employ when they get older.

WHEN MAY A KID START LIFTING WEIGHTS?

Through active play, children during early youth develop their bodily awareness, control, and balance. Strength training, however, may start to be a vital component of a comprehensive fitness regimen as early as age 7 or 8 – if the kid is old enough to follow instructions and can practise good technique and form.

The Department of Health and Human Services advises school-age children to engage in daily physical exercise for at least 60 minutes. Strengthening exercises for the muscles and bones are advised as part of this activity at least three days per week. Remind your child that strength exercise is intended to develop muscle strength and endurance if they show an interest in it.

The act of bulking up is altogether different and is best done safely during puberty when your child’s bones have finished developing. If your kid has a known or suspected health issue, such as a heart ailment, high blood pressure, or a seizure disorder, you could also ask your child’s doctor for the go-ahead to start a strength training programme.

HOW SHOULD A CHILD BEGIN A STRENGTH TRAINING REGIMEN?

Strength training for children need not be done on a smaller scale than for adults. Remember the following general guidelines:

Consult a specialist: Start with a trainer or coach who knows about youth strength training. Based on your child’s age, size, abilities, and interests in other sports, the coach or trainer can design a safe, efficient strength training programme. Alternatively, sign up your youngster for a kids’ strength training class.

Get warm and get cold: Encourage your child to perform five to ten minutes of light cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, running in place, or jumping rope, before each weight training session. After every workout, it’s a good idea to stretch gently.

Supervise: Never leave your youngster unsupervised. Adult supervision by a qualified strength training instructor is crucial.

Maintain enjoyment: To keep them from getting bored, help your youngster mix up the routine.

Results won’t appear right away. Your youngster will eventually observe a change in their muscular strength and endurance, though.