MadenTexas

A few years ago I was working out at a World's Gym in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. There was a guy in there I had seen around for a while. Tall and stout, you could tell he lifted but didn't have anything going for him "freak" wise. One day he brought his little boy in. By little I mean around 12 years old. I watched him push this poor kid on leg press, of all things, to the youngsters breaking point. It looked like he was going to cry but tried his heart out cause his dad wanted his form to be perfect and wanted him to give 110%.

So I have a couple questions and I wanted some insight from you guys that do and don't have kids. Why would a grown man push such a young kid to such a dangerous limit at a young age? For those that do have kids, did you expect them to follow in your passion? If they did or did not how did you feel? And for those who plan on having kids, would you be disappointed if they didn't follow the path to the big iron?

Please discuss I'm really curious about this.

__________________
5'7.5'' 125lbs-200+lbs, always a work in progress

PozzSka

I hope that my daughter (and subsequent children) lead healthy lifestyles. If they want to be monsters, cool, if not, no biggie, but they'll learn from example to eat often and exercise often.

__________________

olinerules87

my opinions:

http://serv01.siteground174.com/~tru...ead.php?t=2413

__________________
http://www.gymwiki.info/content/Index



For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
1 Timothy 4:8

teckno05

My little brother is following me exactly. I think now he deadlifts 230lbs weighing 125 at 13 years old. I tell him to go lighter but he lifts heavy when I'm not around, after reading some of that I'm going to crack down on him harder to lighten the weights perfect the form and maybe bump volume.

I think weightlifting for 14 and under should be enjoyable, fun, and safe. They should be experimenting with what exercises feel best for them, working to get a pump, finding a "mind muscle connection". Not lifting as if they're life depended on it, working through pain, or doing widowmakers on a leg press.

__________________
"Strive to be the 1st or the best, they're the only ones remembered."
-Kapu

clh5341

My kid seems to be naturally drawn to the things that I'm interested in, but I won't be bummed at all if he decides to go in a different direction. It's all about him being happy in my eyes. Most kids don't want to do something that isn't fun, so yelling at him and making him miserable is far more likely to push them away than to make them want to do it in my opinion. I don't understand people like Little League Dads that sit there and scream at their kids for missing a fly ball or swinging at a pitch in the dirt. If your kid is outside running instead of sitting there eating cheetos in front of the X-Box all day, and is actually having fun, then you should consider yourself a success.

__________________
"The sun shines even on a dog's ass sometimes."- My Dad

kroxic

If the kids wants to lift let them.

Maybe the kid wants to be pushed. It may not be for everyone but how do you think china forges their young freaks of power?

__________________
Trained and guided by the Banana
My 2008 DC Offseason Journal
Use the code ECH346 at the checkout www.TrueProtein.com and save 5% on your order

MadenTexas

Very true, I couldn't be sure that thats not what the kid wanted. Thats why I minded my own business. But the memory of that event is what made me start this thread. Its more of you guys personal views on bodybuilding and kids as opposed to that one particular incident.

And I agree about the little league thing. My ex's cousin played on a LL team and while I was at one of their games I noticed the other team had a little girl playing for them. Well when she came to bat she was really scared of the ball and was struck out easily. Her dad was livid. He took her into the practice cage and started beenin fastballs at her yelling not to be afraid of the ball. Poor thing was crying.

__________________
5'7.5'' 125lbs-200+lbs, always a work in progress

Johnny WBB

Is there any conclusive evidence yet on the effect of heavy lifting on a kids height? Some sources say there isnt any, others, including my PE teacher from when I was at school, say it stunts growth. He actually had anecdotal evidence aswell as a vague scientific explanation for why, but I find it hard to believe....

olinerules87

A paper I wrote a while back:

Strength training is “the use of resistance methods to increase one’s ability to exert or resist force” (“Strength Training by Children”). For years, strength training and weightlifting have been used by adolescents and adults to improve their sports performance and general well-being. Weight training has also been recommended for the elderly for its health benefits. But because of the former beliefs of pediatricians and scientists, weight training has been frowned upon for use by preadolescent children. Despite people’s perceptions that weight training is not suitable for young children, a properly designed weight training program is not only safe, but is also beneficial in the improvement of prepubescent children’s athletic performance and overall health.

There are many former myths which make weightlifting for children taboo in most people’s minds. For years, it was considered dangerous and risky for children to participate in strength training programs. It was thought that lifting weights would close children’s growth plates, which control the length and shape of their bones (Briley HE01). Closing the growth plates would cause a child’s growth to be stunted, and therefore, lead to limbs being shorter than their possible length. It was also thought that lifting weights would reduce flexibility and cause participants muscles to tighten up. Another misconception was that speed would be decreased as an athlete’s strength increased. Coordination was also believed to be hindered as a result of strength training (Kubachka).

The safety of strength training for children has been examined in many recent studies. One of these studies, done by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, reported that over 8,000 injuries have occurred in children under the age of 14 while lifting weights in the past year. However, this study did not investigate the conditions of the lifting environment or the history of the children studied. The study did document that most of these injuries occurred while the subjects were in an unsupervised environment (“Youth Resistance Training”). Weightlifting injuries usually range from strains and sprains to the occasional fracture. Overuse injuries also occur, but can be easily prevented by using a properly designed strength training program. Several studies have looked at the risk of injury to children while participating in strength training programs under the proper supervision and found it to be very low, some saying they have never had any injuries (Benjamin and Glow; Faigenbaum and Westcott, “Strength Training” 36). The difference in the safety of playing sports and lifting weights has also been examined. One study looked at over 1500 sports related injuries in children, and found that less that 1% of these injuries occurred as a result of weightlifting (Stout). The stress on children’s joints while playing sports has actually been proven to be greater than the stress put on by lifting weights (“Youth Resistance Training”). Due to this, most reports seem to agree that it is much safer for young children to participate in a properly designed strength training programs than it is for them to play sports.

The biggest concern parents and coaches have about letting their children lift weights is the myth that it will lead to bone damage and stunted growth. The epiphyseal plate, better known as the growth plate, is growing tissue at the end of children’s bones. Many fear that weightlifting will lead to the premature closing of these plates and stunted growth. (Briley HE01). Recent studies have found that proper strength training will not damage a child’s growth plates, stunt their growth, or affect their maximum potential size (Benjamin and Glow). The premature closing of the growth plates has actually been related to hormonal influences, rather than injury (Goss, “Is Weight Training”). The American College of Sports Medicine has said, “There is no current scientific evidence to support that early weight training will stunt a child’s growth” (Briley HE01). A few studies conducted by Dr. Avery Faigenbaum have shown that there can even be positive growth effects from strength training when children receive proper nutrition and physical activity (Benjamin and Glow). Other studies have found that weightlifting will increase the amount of muscle gained during puberty than normally expected (“Strength Training by Children”).

One of the most beneficial results of strength training is the increase of body strength. Many studies done in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s reported that prepubescent children were not capable of making strength gains because of their low levels of testosterone. The methods used in these studies were flawed, but led many people to believe that strength training programs were fruitless and ineffective for children. Because of advances in technology, there is now a much better understanding of the possibilities of strength gains in children (Benjamin and Glow; Faigenbaum and Westcott, “Strength Training” 37). An increase in body strength comes from neural adaptations, caused by an increase in the number of neurons working at each muscle contraction (Briley HE01). These neuromuscular adaptations explain how children with low testosterone levels can achieve strength gains (“Strength Training by Children”). Children also gain muscle mass through an increase in the amount of protein their body produces (Faigenbaum and Westcott, “Strength Training” 37). Studies have found that children are likely to experience strength gains of 50-75 percent in 2 months (Faigenbaum and Westcott, Strength & Power 145). According to Coach Kim Goss, editor of Bigger Faster Stronger and a weightlifting coach of young ice skaters, muscular endurance, or the length of time a strenuous activity can be performed well, will also be increased by lifting weights (Goss).

__________________
http://www.gymwiki.info/content/Index



For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
1 Timothy 4:8

olinerules87

The athletic performance of children has also been proven to increase as a result of strength training. According to Coach Randall Long, a weightlifting coach for over 20 years, lifting weights plays a vital role in the increase of sports performance. There are two ways to improve speed: increasing stride length and stride frequency. Weight training helps generate enough power to accomplish these two things. Also, as tendons and ligaments get stronger as a result of lifting weights, the body is able to generate more power output, resulting in more speed. Coach Long says, “Weightlifting is like adding more engine to a car, you get more horsepower, which will give you more speed.” Movements performed in Olympic style lifts are also very athletic and similar to many of the movements performed on a sports field, such as jumping in basketball or tackling in football. Doing these types of lifts increase a child’s ability to perform these same types of actions while playing, thereby improving that child’s sports performance (Long). Involving stretching exercises in the strength training program will add flexibility, which will help increase speed (Benjamin and Glow). As children participating in strength training programs become stronger, their balance is improved. This allows children to overcome stumbling while they are playing a sport (Long). Lifting weights also involves using many muscles simultaneously, consequently, the body’s coordination and movement is improved (Kubachka).

One of the most beneficial gains of weightlifting is the decreased risk of injury while participating in other sports. In 1993, the American College of Sports Medicine stated that “50 percent of preadolescent sports injuries could be prevented, in large part, by enrolling children in youth strength and conditioning programs” (Faigenbaum and Westcott, “Strength Training” 36). Because the body adapts to the stress of weight training, the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones of the body become stronger as a result of weightlifting. As the tendons and ligaments become stronger, they can better stabilize the joints, resulting in a reduced risk of joint injury. Weightlifting also causes the bones of the body to become denser (Long). One study of 40 prepubescent males found that over a period of 32 weeks, there was twice as much increase in the bone mineral density of boys that lifted weights 3 times a week than there was in boys who did not lift (Ganley and Sherman). An increase in the bone mineral density leads to a decrease of bone fractures (Specker). Children who participated in properly designed strength training programs are also able to recover from injuries twice as fast as those who did not (Stout).

Positive psychological changes can also be noted after children participate in weight training programs. Many children feel insecure about themselves; weight training gives them positive visual reinforcement, which increases their self-esteem and confidence (“Benefits”; Faigenbaum and Westcott, “Strength Training” 36). Many parents have noted the positive effects of weight training in their children such as being more willing to help out around the house and doing homework (Benjamin and Glow). Weight training also improves children’s ability to cope with stress. Studies done on young girls during times of high stress, found that girls who exercise have less mental and physical distress than those who do not (Ganley and Sherman). Endorphins, which have “pain-relieving and anti-depressant effects on humans”, are released by the body during weightlifting. An estimated 10-15 percent of children are depressed, and weight lifting can be a great tool in fighting the depression (“Benefits”; “Depression”).

Participating in strength training programs can also be great for overweight children. According to recent studies, from 1981 to 1991, the percent of overweight American children has risen 20 percent, meaning that one out of every four children is overweight. Overweight children are at a higher risk of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, respiratory problems, and many other health problems (Ganley and Sherman). It is usually recommended that overweight children need to get more cardiovascular exercise to help fight obesity, but this may not be the best thing for them to do. Children would much rather perform short bouts of activity, followed by a period of recovery, than performing the recommended half hour of constant endurance exercise. This makes weightlifting very appealing to young and under active children. Weight training is also extremely attractive to obese children, because unlike activities involving running and jumping, where excess weight is unfavorable, weightlifting better suits larger children. Weightlifting builds up the self-esteem of overweight children because they can naturally lift more weight than their smaller friends. This increased self-worth is great for overweight children feeling insecure about their body size (Faigenbaum and Westcott, “Strength Training” 36). Not only does weightlifting build up the self-esteem of obese children, but it can also be used as a great tool for weight loss and management, by getting these children started on a healthy lifestyle (Benjamin and Glow).

There are many other health benefits gained as a result of participation in a properly designed weight training program. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease have been proven to show up in childhood. “Evidence links lipid and lipoprotein profiles in children and adolescence with the development of atherosclerotic lesions and high-normal blood pressure in young people. These conditions significantly increase the risk of essential hypertension in adulthood.” Research shows that physical activity can be of great help in cardiovascular protection in high risk individuals. Studies have found that individuals who exercise have “significant improvement in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and the total cholesterol.” Other studies have found significantly lower blood pressure in children that lift weights (Ganley and Sherman). Research has also shown that the endothelial function, “an indicator of susceptibility to arterial disease”, improves in obese children as result of weightlifting (Briley HE01). Diabetics may also benefit from the improved ability to absorb blood sugars as a result of weight training (“Benefits”).

There are a few major steps that must be taken to insure safety in a weight training program. The first is making sure that children are using proper technique (Faigenbaum and Westcott, Strength & Power 142). Most weight training injuries are resulted from improper technique while lifting; therefore children must be taught how to perform each lift before they begin the program. If proper technique is emphasized, injuries rarely occur. Supervision by an adult who fully understands the program and can properly teach it to the children is a very important component to keeping safety (“Youth Resistance Training”). Another key to keeping children safe while lifting is using a properly designed weight training program. Lifting too much can result in overuse injuries, so the frequency and duration of lifting must be controlled. There should be at least two, but never more than three workouts per week. It is usually recommended that 10-15 repetitions be used per set (Faigenbaum and Westcott, Strength & Power 140-146). Many programs believe that it is safer to use light weights for more than 15 repetitions. According to Coach Kim Goss, children may have trouble focusing if they have to do too many repetitions, so doing fewer repetitions is okay. When developing a strength training program, each individual’s needs must be considered. The program must be made to benefit the children, be as safe as possible, and entertaining for the children involved (Goss).

Strength training is a great way to improve prepubescent children’s strength, athletic performance, psychological well-being, and overall health. When children are involved in a well designed program that stresses technique and is supervised by an experienced adult, weight lifting is not only safe, but will lead to the reduction of injuries. The benefits of participating in a strength training program far outweigh any possible risks. By starting children on strength training programs at an early age, healthy habits will be made that may last their entire life (Benjamin and Glow).

__________________
http://www.gymwiki.info/content/Index



For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
1 Timothy 4:8

FAHall

In the theatre world, that dad would be called a "stage mom".

Of course, if the kid is actually interested in pursuing it with veracity, then by all means I think the parents should let them.

It is a different thing entirely if the parent is pushing the kid to do something that they don't want to do.


As far as whether kids should train with weights, all of the research leads to a resounding YES. The only age issue that pops up is maturity and ability to focus on a task, but some 30+ year old trainees don't have this. Weight training is not something that allows the lifter to lose focus. When people lose focus they get hurt.

__________________
AXH531
www.Trueprotein.com has the highest quality supplements at the lowest price available . Now you can get an additional 5% off just by using this discount code!

"The secret is that there's no secret. Lift hard, lift consistently, eat tons of clean, wholesome foods and listen to your body. It's very simple, but it's not easy. Don't get these two terms mixed up." -Zach Even-Esh

AXH531

Penguin

That guy needs his ass kicked, HARD. By someone yelling at him, "DON'T BE AFRAID OF MY FIST!!"

__________________
My discount code "JSP444"
Use it, you'll like it.

Newbie Consolidated info by elroy

Best thread ever!!

olinerules87

exactly.

anyone who is seriously interested in the research on this stuff should read anything written by Avery Faigenbaum (sp?)

__________________
http://www.gymwiki.info/content/Index



For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
1 Timothy 4:8

huskerfoos

As long as my kids are successful, good parents/role models, then they can take any LEGAL path they choose HAHA.

As a matter of fact, my oldest son has always said he wanted to come at the hospital and do what I do, take xrays. I would much rather him do something along the lines of doctor, surgeon, etc.

If they get into any sort of weight training, that's up to them. As long as they have the knowledge to make informed decisions on their programs, then I am all behind them.

I don't see me pushing either 1 of them like the OP stated he saw. hell, they are the reasons I missed most of the summer, to stay at home and hang with them and play games, swim, etc.

jesus rocks

I used to get beatdown pretty bad after soccer games...I sucked pretty bad. It seemed like it sucked then, now its just a vague memory.

__________________

There are only three reasons why you may not like the Whopper.
* You hate America and your parents.
* You enjoy killing puppies.
* You are not awesome
I would highly recommend that all first dates happen at Burger King. Order your new girl/guy a Whopper. If he or she refuses feel free to yell, "You are a lame dog killing terrosist!"
TRUE PROTEIN DISCOUNT CODE: SDM333. PLEASE USE IT

MadenTexas

Wow, thats always tough to hear. My dad was abused as a child and he remembers it vividly to this day. I'm glad yours is a vague memory though. There's spankings and then theres abuse, theres absolutely no excuse for the latter.

__________________
5'7.5'' 125lbs-200+lbs, always a work in progress

jesus rocks

didn't say ALL the abuse was vague, just after the soccer
Either way, I agree with most that as long as the child is doing it without compulsion from their parents than its a good thing.

__________________

There are only three reasons why you may not like the Whopper.
* You hate America and your parents.
* You enjoy killing puppies.
* You are not awesome
I would highly recommend that all first dates happen at Burger King. Order your new girl/guy a Whopper. If he or she refuses feel free to yell, "You are a lame dog killing terrosist!"
TRUE PROTEIN DISCOUNT CODE: SDM333. PLEASE USE IT