27/09/2025
Should kids be training in a gym?
Old school studies claimed it would stunt a kid’s growth. If so, why do we encourage so many kids to start training?
It all comes down to the style of training. Don’t confuse strength training with weightlifting, bodybuilding or powerlifting. Trying to build big muscles can put too much strain on young muscles, tendons, and areas of cartilage that haven’t yet turned to bone, called growth plates. Also, being more focused on lifting large amounts of weight than on form can make strength training riskier.
For kids, light weights and controlled movements are best. Using good form and being safe are most important.
Children can do many strength training exercises using their own body weight or resistance tubing. Free weights, machine weights, and medicine balls are other options. But keep in mind that some equipment designed for adults might be too large for many children.
We keep all this at the forefront of our classes, ensuring these young athletes receive the most care, attention, and develop safe movement practices.
Exercises like these are key for building strong foundational strength from a young age that will only carry on into their adolescence. In fact, many of my athletes who are in their 20s started with me when they were 10. They are now the most well-rounded, healthy people I know.
