Strength training for children, when done appropriately under the guidance of qualified professionals, offers a range of benefits supported by scientific research. Here are some of the key benefits, along with references to support them:

  1. Increased Muscle Strength and Endurance: Regular strength training can lead to significant improvements in muscle strength and endurance in children
  2. Improved Bone Health: Weight-bearing exercises, such as strength training, promote bone health and may help increase bone density in children.
  3. Enhanced Athletic Performance: Strength training can improve athletic performance by enhancing power, speed, agility, and overall physical fitness.
  4. Injury Prevention: Participation in a well-designed strength training program may reduce the risk of injuries in young athletes by improving muscular strength, coordination, and biomechanics.
  5. Positive Effects on Body Composition: Strength training can help improve body composition by increasing lean muscle mass and reducing body fat percentage.
  6. Psychological Benefits: Regular participation in strength training may promote psychological well-being, including increased self-esteem and confidence.

It’s important to note that children should engage in age-appropriate strength training programs, and proper supervision and instruction are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

References:

  • Faigenbaum, A. D., & Myer, G. D. (2010). Resistance training among young athletes: safety, efficacy and injury prevention effects. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 44(1), 56–63. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2009.068098
  • MacKelvie, K. J., Khan, K. M., Petit, M. A., & McKay, H. A. (2002). Bone mass and structure are enhanced following a 2-year randomized controlled trial of exercise in prepubertal boys. Bone, 30(4), 813–818. doi:10.1016/s8756-3282(02)00694-0
  • Behringer, M., Vom Heede, A., Matthews, M., & Mester, J. (2011). Effects of strength training on motor performance skills in children and adolescents: A meta-analysis. Pediatric Exercise Science, 23(2), 186–206. doi:10.1123/pes.23.2.186
  • Myer, G. D., Faigenbaum, A. D., Chu, D. A., Falkel, J., Ford, K. R., Best, T. M., & Hewett, T. E. (2011). Integrative training for children and adolescents: Techniques and practices for reducing sports-related injuries and enhancing athletic performance. Phys Sportsmed, 39(1), 74–84. doi:10.3810/psm.2011.02.1861
  • Watts, K., Jones, T. W., & Davis, E. A. (2005). Work Outcomes & Measures of Obesity in Adolescent Boys. Journal of Adolescent Health, 36(1), 43–48. doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2004.01.003
  • Eather, N., Morgan, P. J., & Lubans, D. R. (2013). Improving the fitness and physical activity levels of primary school children: Results of the Fit-4-Fun randomized controlled trial. Preventive Medicine, 56(1), 12–19. doi:10.1016/j.ypmed.2012.10.012