Considering the skyrocketing obesity among young people and the decline in their participation in sport, the practice of physical activity seems more important than ever. This is when it is wise to turn to a kinesiologist to provide a resistance training program that will remedy the situation. Training makes it possible to adopt healthy lifestyle habits from an early age and helps to counter obesity. Goldfield’s study (2017) points out that adherence to a resistance training program combined with traditional aerobics has positive repercussions on the physical and psychosocial health of participants. In other words, the benefits for adolescents are also on the cognitive level with, among other things, a better general mood, greater motivation and a reduction in stress. More specifically for athletes, physical preparation increases performance and contributes to the prevention of sports-related injuries.
IS IT SAFE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE TO LIFT?
First, it is important to highlight the position of the National Strength and Conditioning Association regarding training for children and adolescents. Supported by other scientific and sports medicine organizations, the association stipulates that a training program supervised and supervised by a professional is not only safe, but brings several benefits to the strength, power and cardiovascular capacity of young people. .
Training at an early age is increasingly accepted in the field and especially supported by science. Parents, sports coaches and health professionals are much better informed and equipped to understand the many benefits of training for young people. However, no one is completely safe from danger and it is all the more important to ensure that the technique of the exercises is well and truly mastered in order to progress safely. That said, the risk of injury in a gym is no higher than in the majority of sports usually practiced by young people.
FROM WHEN IS IT POSSIBLE TO START?
There is no minimum age to start the training itself. However, the child must be mentally and emotionally ready to receive instructions from a kinesiologist. A child of 5-6 years old can start training, but the important thing is that it is adapted to their stage of development. The fun aspect will certainly take a big place at this age to see physical activity as pleasant and not as a punishment. Through its evolution, we must consider its psychological and physiological maturity in order to adapt and respond to the long-term development of the athlete.
By: Michael Gagné, B.Sc. FIIPP
Kinesiologist
Source : M.Zatsiorsky, Vladimir. J. Kraemer, William. C.Fry, Andrew (2021) Science and practice of strength training. Third Edition. Human Kinetic. 327 p.
