Kids Strength Training Guide for Parents and Teachers
Strength training can be a valuable form of exercise for children, helping to improve their overall health, physical fitness, and athletic performance. However, parents and teachers need to be aware of the proper techniques and guidelines for strength training to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
Before starting a strength training program for kids, it is important to ensure that they have appropriate physical and emotional readiness for this type of activity. A pre-participation physical evaluation by a healthcare professional is recommended to screen for any underlying health conditions that may limit or contraindicate strength training. Additionally, children should have a basic level of maturity and motivation to follow instructions and perform exercises safely and correctly.
When designing a strength training program for kids, it is important to focus on proper technique and form to prevent injuries. Exercises should be performed with light weights or bodyweight, with a focus on using proper form and technique. Additionally, children should start with a low volume of training and gradually increase the frequency, intensity, and duration of their workouts over time.
Parents and teachers should also prioritize safety by ensuring that children have appropriate supervision during strength training sessions, and that equipment is properly adjusted and maintained. Additionally, it is important to monitor children for signs of fatigue or discomfort, and to encourage rest and recovery between training sessions.
In summary, strength training can be a valuable form of exercise for children, helping to improve their overall health and athletic performance. However, it is important for parents and teachers to prioritize safety by ensuring that children have appropriate physical and emotional readiness, focusing on proper technique and form, and prioritizing supervision and equipment safety.
References:
Faigenbaum, A. D., Lloyd, R. S., Myer, G. D., & Stone, M. H. (2013). Resistance training for kids: Right from the start. ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal, 17(5), 14-20.
Lloyd, R. S., Faigenbaum, A. D., Stone, M. H., Oliver, J. L., Jeffreys, I., Moody, J. A., ... & Myer, G. D. (2014). Position statement on youth resistance training: the 2014 International Consensus. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 48(7), 498-505.
Lloyd, R. S., Cronin, J. B., Faigenbaum, A. D., Haff, G. G., Howard, R., Kraemer, W. J., ... & Oliver, J. L. (2016). National Strength and Conditioning Association Position Statement on Youth Resistance Training. Journal of strength and conditioning research, 30(5), 1483-1503.
