Weight training in young people. Possible risks and recommendations.Is weight training for young people a recommended activity? We know that during heavy manual work there are known hazards to the spine, but not much is known of the effects in young people. So, should your child or teen perform this type of activity? The evidence shows that when the lifts are performed with skill or under supervision, the incidence of back injuries is lower, however, many young people are likely to be relatively unskilled and not many times they get the supervision of a trained instructor. THE POSSIBLE RISKS 1) Short term risks.- Muscles of the back pulled, strained spinal ligaments, fractures or discs ruptures. (Almost 30% of injuries affect the back). 2) Long term risks.- Spinal degeneration, bone changes. RECOMMENDATIONS 1) Don't let your child or teen to lift heavy stuff before proper growth. 2) It is very important to speak to youngsters about the risks of the activity. 3) Help the young to get appropiate supervision from a trained instructor. 4) Don't let the young to lift more than the adequate for their age and with appropiate technique. See more guidelines about this topic in the following links. Weight training is a good activity if performed adequately. See the benefits and recommendations. Spinal loading may produce height loss. Some activities may induce this, find some examples. About physical activity and other topics How to build your body and like it! How can I make my muscles physically right? Go back to Child and Teen related fitness articles Return to Lifetime Fitness Nutrition Homepage New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |