Does Strength Training Stunt Children's Growth? Debunking the Myth
As owner of Bio-Dynamic Athletics, I am often asked by parents whether strength training/weight training is safe for their children. One of the biggest concerns that parents have is whether strength training will stunt their child's growth. However, science has repeatedly shown that this is a myth.
For many years, people believed that strength/weight training could cause children to stop growing or grow at a slower rate. However, research has consistently shown that strength training does not affect children's growth. In fact, recent studies published and peer reviewed found that strength training can actually stimulate growth in children and adolescents.
The study followed a group of children between the ages of 7 and 14 who performed strength training exercises for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, the researchers found that the children had not only gained strength but had also grown in height. This is because strength training stimulates the production of growth hormone, which is essential for bone and muscle growth.
Another study published in the journal Sports Health found that strength training can actually improve bone density in children and adolescents. This is important because bone density is a key indicator of bone strength and can help prevent injuries later in life. By strengthening their bones through strength training, children can reduce their risk of fractures and other bone-related injuries.
Despite these scientific findings, there are still many myths surrounding strength training and children. Some people believe that lifting heavy weights or performing certain exercises can be dangerous for children, but this is not necessarily true. When done under the guidance of a qualified professional, strength training can be safe and effective for children of all ages.
At Bio-Dynamic Athletics, we specialize in creating safe personalized strength training programs for children and adolescents. We believe that every child is unique and should be treated as such. That's why we take a scientific approach to training, focusing on each child's individual needs and goals.
Our programs are designed to improve overall strength, endurance, and flexibility, while also promoting healthy growth and development. We use a variety of techniques and equipment, including bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, and weightlifting, to ensure that our clients get the most out of their training.
In conclusion, strength training does not stunt children's growth. In fact, it can actually stimulate growth and improve bone density. With the right guidance and support, children of all ages can benefit from strength training and develop the skills they need to lead a healthy, active life. At Bio-Dynamic Athletics, we are committed to helping children and adolescents achieve their goals and reach their full potential.
Below are the citations and peer reviewed research used to create this article.
Faigenbaum, A. D., et al. "Youth Resistance Training: Updated Position Statement Paper From the National Strength and Conditioning Association." Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, vol. 23, no. 5, 2009, pp. S60-S79. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0b013e31819df407.
2.Micheli, L. J., et al. "Strength Training for Children and Adolescents." Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, vol. 18, no. 12, 2010, pp. 737-745. doi: 10.5435/00124635-201012000-00003.
