Quiz The Coach - Will Lifting Weights Stunt My Growth

So ya dig sports but need some help with your game? Don't understand some of the rules of football, basketball or hockey? Got a gripe about P.E. class, skateboarders, cheerleading, coaches, or anything? Why not Quiz the Coach?

Hey Coach,
Is it true if I start to lift weights at the age of 15 it will stunt my growth?
beck10

Hey beck10

The idea that lifting weights will some how turn you into a teenage hobbit is a myth, which unfortunately discourages some kids from weight training. The chances of your growth being stunted from lifting weights are about as likely as Queen Latifah making the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. In reality, one of the best things kids and teens of any age can do for their health is to start a regular exercise routine which includes both weight training and aerobic activity. If done properly, weight training is also a good way to prevent injuries by protecting your bones and joints. Studies have also shown weight training to be beneficial in preventing osteoporosis in teenage girls.

Having said that, it's important that you talk to your coach or P.E. teacher at school before starting any weight training routine. Your bones, joints and tendons are still growing and developing, so it's important you weight train safely, with supervision. Improper weight lifting techniques can lead to strain and permanent damage to your bones and joints. It may be tempting to overdo things by trying to lift as much as you possibly can but the "no pain, no gain" theory DOES NOT apply to kids or teens who are just starting a weight lifting routine. Give your muscles two or three days between workouts and you shouldn't be doing more than three, 30-minute routines each week. Once again, be sure to talk to your doctor or coach at school for more advice on a healthy exercise routine that works for you. For more info on weight training, click here.

Do you need tips or advice on sports, fitness or health? Send it to the Kidzworld Coach. Keep in mind peeps, the Kidzworld Coach isn't a doctor or a professional athlete or anything like that. He's just a dude who digs sports, plays 'em and knows a lot about 'em. You should always talk to your 'rents, a doctor or your school gym teacher before starting a new sport or a new exercise.

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