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Weightlifting
Safe Training for Teens
By Heather Johnson Durocher
Coaching and instruction are critical with this form of exercise, especially when preteens and teenagers are involved. In addition, parents of a child interested in beginning a resistance-training regimen should consider the child's stage of physical development.
"Usually once they hit their adolescent growth spurt, it's a good time to start strength training," Calabrese says. "If they start training prematurely, it may actually stunt growth because their bodies are just not prepared for that kind of stress."
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), a limited number of case reports have raised concern about injuries to the wrist and spine from weightlifting in "skeletally immature individuals." However, such injuries are uncommon and are believed to be largely preventable "by avoiding improper lifting techniques and improperly supervised lifts," the AAP states in its policy on resistance training.
Experts agree parents should ensure a child thoroughly understands resistance training before beginning a program.
"Proper exercise form should be demonstrated and explained," Marano says. "There are reference books for parents to read, as well as qualified fitness professionals, physical education teachers and coaches to speak to."
Denise Porretto, thrilled that her 12-year-old son, Steven, showed an interest in exercise shortly after beginning middle school last year, made sure to educate him on resistance training with the help of Steven's father.
"We've both discussed the correct form with him and the proper way to lift and lower the weights," says Porretto of Belle Mead, N.J. "I also bought him a book that has lots of pictures of teenagers working out. He's referred to that book many times."
