Understandably, parents express apprehension about weightlifting during adolescence, fearing potential disruptions to skeletal development crucial for lifelong well-being. Contrary to the widespread misconception that weightlifting hampers growth in children, when executed with proper technique and supervision, it can confer numerous benefits, such as heightened bone density and strength, dispelling the foundational myth.
The fitness industry is shrouded with misconceptions that influence public perception, but using extensive scientific research, weightlifting has proven to show increasing strength and bone strength index (BSI, decreasing fracture risk and rates of sports related injury and growing self-esteem and interest in fitness, which shows that it is great for physical, social and mental well-being. .
The origin of the myth surrounding weightlifting and growth likely stems from concerns about potential damage to growth plates during strength training in youth. Growth plates are areas of growing tissue at the ends of long bones and these bones harden bone when young people reach physical maturity but are softer during development and are therefore more susceptible to damage.
Soft bones, though more prone to damage, should not lead teenagers to exclude weightlifting entirely as the stunting of growth is something that usually occurs from poor form, lifting weights that are too heavy (also called ego-lifting), and a lack of supervision through the use of spotters or trainers. This myth doesn’t entail that if a teenager participates in any sport it entails a risk of injury of growth plates through fractures so should teenagers be forced to quit sports ?
If you are a teenager or you know of a teenager that wants to safely lift weights there are many factors that need to be considered. Firstly, slow and gradual growth is the optimal way for progress in the gym. Climbing to heavy weights doesn’t happen at your first gym session so young people should remember to take it slow to begin with by starting with lighter weights they’re comfortable with and higher reps and focusing on the form and execution of the movement rather than ego lifting for the sake of starting with an extremely high number on the dumbbell. Furthermore, supervision by a certified personal trainer or coach who specialises in designing a safe weightlifting program for kids is essential to avoid damage to growth plates.
Ultimately, if weightlifting is pursued safely, under supervision, and proves enjoyment for the individual, there should be no inherent issue, but if parents still have concerns it is best to consult a doctor before starting.
