Kids Strength Training and Exercise
We have heard numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding “dangerous” activities such as kids strength training, running, and higher-impact exercises.
Questions about the potential stunting of growth, stress on skeletal structures, and long-term implications for young bodies persist.
However, scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the idea that these activities are not only safe but crucial for the development of bone density, muscle mass, and metabolism in kids.
At TREBEL we are constantly working to debunk these myths, drawing parallels between the physical activities of past generations and the importance of fostering an active lifestyle for children today.
Historical Perspective: Grandfather’s Summer and Mom’s Childhood
To dispel fears about weightlifting, higher-impact exercises in children,and kids strength training, it’s insightful to imagine the physical activities of past generations.
Consider the life of your grandfather at the age of 12.
Summers were likely filled with physically demanding tasks such as carrying water from the well, shoveling cattle stalls, forking hay onto wagons, splitting wood, and various other chores.
These activities, often performed without warm-ups or proper techniques, essentially constituted resistance training.
There were no energy drinks or formal workout routines – just everyday movements at different weights and in different orders.
Similarly, envision the childhood of your mother at eight years old. Jumping off snowbanks, riding bikes, carrying books, and maybe even pulling a wagon filled with newspapers were common activities.
Physical play, climbing trees, and occasional falls were part of the routine.
This historical perspective emphasizes that past generations engaged in various physical activities without adhering to modern concepts of warm-ups or structured workouts.
Debunking Growth Stunting Myths
The myth that hard work stunts a child’s growth originated from a questionable 1842 study conducted in coal mines.
In conditions involving long hours, poor lighting, and minimal nutrition, children exhibited severe health issues like rickets, hunchbacks, and premature mortality.
However, modern understanding rejects these outdated notions.
Contrary to the myth, children who actively engage in running, jumping, playing, and lifting experience fewer injuries.
Additionally, they develop a robust metabolism, reducing the risk of diabetes and obesity-related conditions in adulthood.
Physical activity enhances their resistance to illnesses, and the bone density they build in their formative years can contribute to preventing osteoporosis in later life.
Benefits of Physical Activity for Children
Children who participate in a diverse range of exercises enjoy numerous health benefits.
A constantly varied, functional, and enjoyable kids strength training and exercise routine not only supports physical well-being but also promotes a positive attitude toward fitness.
Encouraging children to find joy in exercise is a powerful motivator for long-term health.
Physical activities contribute to the development of strong bones, muscles, and a resilient metabolism, setting the foundation for a healthy life.
The Role of Parents and Coaches
As parents and coaches, the duty is to help children build bodies that function optimally.
The choices made before the age of 18 can significantly impact health later in life.
Fostering an environment where exercise is seen as varied, functional, and fun is essential.
When children genuinely enjoy being active, they are more likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle into adulthood.
Let’s Wrap This Up
When it comes to kids strength training, the fear that kids strength training, running, and higher-impact exercises stunt growth or harm children’s development lacks scientific support.
The historical context of past generations engaging in physically demanding activities without detrimental effects dispels these myths.
Instead, encouraging children to participate in a diverse range of exercises not only contributes to physical well-being but also sets the stage for a lifetime of health.
As parents and coaches, the responsibility lies in fostering a positive attitude toward exercise, making it an enjoyable and integral part of a child’s life.
Embracing physical activity as a vital component of a child’s development is the key to building resilient, healthy bodies that can withstand the test of time.