Foto:Istock.com/Fabio Camandona 

It's time to dispel the most common claims before they become myths.

Parents often ask when their adolescent teenagers should be allowed to do strength training. They are unsure. And rightly so, because in the past there have been conflicting debates about strength training for children and adolescents. However, a great deal of research on this topic in recent years has significantly changed the scientific attitude towards strength training at a young age. So, it's time to dispel the most common claims before they become myths.

1. “Weight training leads to growth disorders in children.” False: None of the many studies in recent years have been able to prove this, and there are no lasting physiological reasons either.
2. “Strength training with additional loads damages the so-called growth plates of bones in adolescents.” This statement is also false: If the additional load in strength training is controlled and appropriately chosen, it poses a very low risk of injury. However, acute fractures, which are more common in contact sports such as Swiss wrestling, football, or ice hockey, can lead to growth disorders over the longer term.
3. “Strength training overloads the tendon insertions of large muscles, such as those in the thigh muscle.” That is correct. For this reason, the trainer must take age into account when choosing the equipment and training intensity. Studies have shown that the probability of overloading in strength training is no higher than in other sports.
4. “Handling training equipment is a source of risk for adolescents.” That's partly true. However, it is absolutely safe if they are properly instructed and supervised by an experienced trainer.

In proper doses, strength training for children and adolescents is by no means unhealthy, but a safe and effective measure to increase strength, promote bone density, prevent injuries and, last but not least, increase the child's self-esteem.