Strength training can be dangerous or harmful for a child or teen when the gym is not appropriately supervised or guided. Strength training can be extremely safe under the supervision of an educated, experienced and qualified coach.

Unfortunately big box gyms/24 hour gyms are just not suited for children and teens for a number of reasons.

• The equipment is designed for fully grown adults.

• Kids and teens are more likely to train well beyond their current capacity, thus increasing the risk of injury.

• Limited supervision; so when something goes wrong, it's too late essentially.

• Personal Trainers who work there are typically not experienced in programming and training youth.

Fortunately, this doesn't mean all gyms or facilities are unsafe. What you really need to be looking for when wanting youth to participate in a strength training program are:

• The trainer or coach has the appropriate qualifications, experience and knowledge when programming and delivering programs for youth.

• The coach supervising the youth ensures safe exercise is adhered to at all times.

• The coach ensures the child or teen is shown how to correctly perform exercises with emphasis on technique and moving well.

• The coach ensures that their programs are safe and appropriate to the individual needs and capabilities.

But what I am saying is that these sort of things typically do not happen under supervision and gym based environment.

The coach sensibly progresses exercises for youth athletes based on skill competency and ability to perform the exercise. In addition, basic education on weight training room etiquette, individual goals, and realistic outcomes should be part of youth resistance training programs. In return the children benefit with greater body awareness, strength and ability to tolerate the high physical stress and high impacts in sports.

Strength training is a crucial component for youth athletes to help prevent injuries whether its sports they play or recreational activities with family, friends or at school.

Strength training is safe under supervision and guidance of a qualified and experienced coach or trainer. Strength training has shown to have positive effects on physical development of youth and injury prevention.

Inner Athlete's coaches are qualified with exercise science degrees, years' experience working with youth and attention to detail when it comes to designing and delivering the most safe and suitable program for the individual.

Please email us email us if you have any questions or want to know more about our youth athletic development program.

Nathan Palenkas
Strength Coach
Inner Athlete