Is it safe for kids to participate in a resistance training program?
The answer is absolutely “yes.” However, each participant must follow the rules, regulations, and guidelines set forth by the strength and conditioning professional overseeing the program. Resistance training is very important in the development of muscular strength, muscular endurance, increase bone density, and decreasing the risk of sports injuries. A resistance training program for the adolescent and pre-pubescent must follow the guidelines set forth by the National Strength and Conditioning Association. A youth resistance training program should incorporate moderate intensity (loads of up to 60 to 67% of one repetition maximum) with moderately high repetitions (12-15).
