Strength training in childhood is viewed critically by many in Germany. The fear of injury or damage to development is too great. Not only do some teachers, parents and doctors reject strength training for the youngest, it is also not really accepted in society: "You simply don't let children lift heavy weights" is a widespread opinion. But is this opinion justified? Is such training really harmful or even advisable for children and young people?
Providing for the future
The figures are alarming: in Germany not only every second adult is overweight - but also already every sixth child! Instead of romping around outdoors, playing or meeting up for football as they used to, children and young people nowadays often prefer to sit at home in front of the computer or smartphone. Too little exercise and unhealthy, fatty food are a dangerous combination. As a result, children put on weight quickly. The result: they move even less. A vicious circle begins.
Strength training in childhood is a very good way to prevent the consequences of too little exercise from occurring in adulthood. This creates the ideal conditions for children and young people to develop healthily and later benefit from a better quality of life. With a higher physical capacity come further positive effects such as a better ability to concentrate and higher stress resistance all by themselves. A more efficient musculature also has only advantages, because it protects against injuries in everyday life or during sports and does not tense up so quickly when sitting in front of the computer or at school for long periods of time. Wear and tear on joints, tendons and ligaments is also greatly reduced.
Strength training for children from the age of 7
Recent international research reports are the reason that the negative attitude towards strength training for children has changed significantly in recent years. If such training is carried out correctly and age-appropriately for children and young people, it can safely and effectively increase strength capacity, increase bone density and prevent injuries.
It is important not to transfer the training for adults 1:1 to children and their organism, which is still growing. Strength training for children must always be carried out in an age-appropriate manner. In addition, it is not about bodybuilding, but about a dosed training, which is exactly adapted to the developmental stage of the children. Children will not suffer any damage from such training. In general, strength training has a low risk of injury if it is done correctly. Sports like football or handball are much more dangerous.
Important: Before the age of 7, children should not start strength training. But from this age onwards it is completely safe and even beneficial.
What has to be considered when strength training for children?
Even though strength training for kids is safe, it still needs to be done in an age-appropriate manner. If you, too, want to offer a kids' workout at your gym, here's what you should keep in mind:
Trained coaches: Strength training with children and teens should only take place under the supervision and guidance of a trained adult trainer who also has some level of educational skills. If not adequately supervised, it can be easy for children and teens to use the equipment incorrectly and cause harm to themselves.
The BSA Academy for example, offers a course to become a "Course Leader Fit Kids".
Well-equipped studio: Good equipment that allows for a safe workout should be available in the studio. Make sure that the rooms and training equipment are suitable for children. This includes equipment that is the appropriate size with small weight increments and appropriate lever lengths.
Recovery is important: Once children have started strength training, it is important to keep in mind how quickly they can recover from maximum strength efforts. This often depends on their mental maturity and hormone status. Sufficient days off should be ensured in any case.
Fun is the be-all and end-all: The most important thing about strength training for kids and teens is that they enjoy it and love doing it. If they only do it on the instructions of their parents, they will quickly lose interest. Offer child-oriented courses and training programs in your studio that are varied and fun. For example, this can also be playful elements that are integrated into the training.
Children's training in fitness studios
More and more gyms are now offering courses as well as strength and endurance training for children as well. Parents can then bring their children along to the training sessions and know that they are being looked after. In some cities there are even centres, courses and areas that are specially designed for this age group. In Hamburg, "Tatendrang" is the first fitness facility in Germany to be opened specifically for children and young people.
Offers for the youngest are a future market for the fitness industry. More and more children are affected by obesity, High blood pressure, Diabetesdiabetes , stiffness and lack of exercise. Gyms can play a part in helping to tackle these problems. Especially nowadays, when fitness studios are hip places, there is a chance to get children and young people interested in fitness training.
By the way, young people can also take part participate in an EMS training! More about it on EMS-TRAINING.com!
You also want to offer a training for children and teenagers in your studio? We would be happy to help you find suitable equipment for children's training! Just call us at +49 911 521919-10 or send us an e-mail to service@fitnessmarkt.de. We will be happy to advise you!
Editors fitnessmarkt.de (SIS)
Image source: imhof79ch / Adobe Stock
Published on: 26 October 2018