Youth & Resistance Training

As the parent and coach of a child who is involved in strength training, I’ve observed that myths about the safety of resistance training for youth are still widely held. This is unfortunate, as evidence supports that, in addition to strength gains, resistance training improves bone density and provides beneficial motor skill practice (Faigenbaum, 2000). In contrast to early sports specialization, a well-rounded athletic program that includes resistance training lays a more resilient foundation for future athletic performance (Faigenbaum, 2000). In addition to being beneficial for aspiring athletes, youth participation in resistance training can increase self-esteem and correlates with exercise participation into adulthood. As a coach, I hope to inspire youth participation in resistance training and guide parents in how to recognize well designed programs and coaching practices for youth.

Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness; Strength Training by Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics April 2008; 121 (4): 835–840. 10.1542/peds.2007-3790

Faigenbaum AD. Strength training for children and adolescents. Clin Sports Med. 2000 Oct;19(4):593-619. doi: 10.1016/s0278-5919(05)70228-3. PMID: 11019731.