At what age should kids start lifting weights? There are a couple of factors to consider before enrolling your son or daughter into a strength training program. First off, there’s a difference between chronological and biological age. A 10-year-old may have the competency and desire to start lifting weights before a 14-year-old. Needless to say, that doesn’t mean the 14-year-old shouldn’t participate in some sort of exercise. Everyone matures at different rates and females are generally first before their male counterparts.
Here are two major components for youth resistance training to consider: one being lead by example. If the parents are active, then most likely their kids will want to be as well. Two, hire a strength coach or trainer who makes exercise fun but productive as well. You don’t want to “turn-off” the motivation or desire to be in the gym at a young age. Exercise at a young age should be enjoyable. It can teach them how to lift with proper form, engage in light competition with oneself, increase self-efficacy and self-esteem to list just a few.
I’m sure you are aware that there is a childhood obesity problem stretching across the world. Kids are becoming more involved with computers and leisure activities than being physically active. Technology is making things easy and convenient. Afterall, you don’t have to even get up off your couch to change the channel on the TV. Strength training, however, can help kids not only stay healthier but increase their mental capabilities. There’s something primitive and natural about lifting a heavy object off the ground. It can enlighten the kid’s strength potential and show what their bodies can do. Which in return can help strengthen their mental toughness and help them get through tough challenges that life presents.
If you’re looking for an exact number to which one would start strength training, there isn’t one. Making exercise a priority at a young age is especially important to develop good habits. If you need any help or guidance on where to begin with your kid or kids, feel free to ask us at Courts Plus. We offer not only personal one-on-one strength training but sometimes group kids day camps. You can contact us online at http://www.courtsplus.org or by telephone: 701-237-4805.
