Children lifting weight.

splashangel

My 11 year old son wants to start lifting weights. He's not. He's to young. He jogs with me. We let him play around with 5 lb. dumb bells. I'm going to encourage him in body weight excercises. My understanding is that weight lifting can damage his frame. Cause problems with still growing and forming bones. Someone told me he should be at least 14 but really 16 and that bone growth was through at 17. So the safest age would be 17. If this is the case, why do they lift weights in high school? What age is the right age?

Jynus

thats myth. a child can lift safely at any age. And should be encouraged if he plans to play sports. Being able to properly move his body and have a base of strength can only help him excel.

splashangel

Wow. See there.

wellbert

According to Uncle Rip, it's one of the safest activities for kids. SO, who knows.

ishtar13

Don't tell these kids that:

http://www.rt.com/sport/powerlifting-maryana-naumova-world-record-children-107/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMx7rDE4m0w

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8A-m9W-3_9M

splashangel

I don't know who that is. Rip.... Not rest in peace. Rip like cut. Right? I googled it. Nothing.

crobl

My 11 year old son wants to start lifting weights. He's not. He's to young. He jogs with me. We let him play around with 5 lb. dumb bells. I'm going to encourage him in body weight excercises. My understanding is that weight lifting can damage his frame. Cause problems with still growing and forming bones. Someone told me he should be at least 14 but really 16 and that bone growth was through at 17. So the safest age would be 17. If this is the case, why do they lift weights in high school? What age is the right age?

I personally believe that someone can strength train at any age. However, I would encourage you finding someone in your area that has experience with that age child. I have seen first hand the results of improper training in youth that has led to some serious physical problems down the road. There is such as thing as too much too soon!

If it was my kid....I would stick to body weight exercises/very low weights. I don't see any reason for a kid to be doing any kind of power/olympic lifting...especially considering the level of skill needed to complete more advanced lifts.

The bottom line is, there is no one 'right age' because everyone grows and develops differently. I began lifting at 15, but I was trained appropriately so I knew what to do safely without hurting myself or stunting my growth.

cordianet

This debate has been around for a LONG time. I prefer to think that a moderate approach is the way to go. Here's one person's opinion, but it's consistent with that moderate approach:

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/drobson38.htm

splashangel

Oh, Wow! Thanks for the link. I kinda figured I was not the first parent to ask this. I think he will be thrilled at the idea of starting his "weight training". He can begin learning good form, sets, stats etc. He doesn't need much weight. Thanks... again cordianet.

crobl , Yea. I agree on to much to soon. He's been wanting this for a year now with a solid no from me. His Dad has just started working out with me so this has made (and dad)want it even more.