Does lifting of weights before 18 stunt height and growth?

by Ritesh Sandugade

Often children below the age of 18 are seen participating in training or workout out programs of their particular sport. As the training includes all types of exercises it also includes strength training by lifting of weights. So this is why most people are concerned about their child`s growth. Yeah their concern is legitimate but we must also consider what science and genetics have to say on development of height and growth by lifting of weights.

As per science and genetics our height and the bone structure depends 80% on our genes inherited by our parents and 20% on the lifestyle we follow. So matter of the fact is your height and growth is mostly influenced by your genes and exercising usually falls under the lifestyle category. There are no such scientific evidences that prove lifting of weights stunt height and growth of an individual. So even if you are below the age of 18 you can continue lifting weights.

Then the question is why most people have a belief that lifting weights affects the growth of the individual. The reason children are seen growth stunted is because of damage to their growth plates.

The growth plates are ends of bones which are soft at initial stage but get hardened as an individual is fully matured. As an individual is fully matured the growth plates tend to close themselves from further preventing them to grow. Normally growth plates tend to close themselves by the age of 18. The heavy pressure on immature bones can result in closing of growth plates early subsequently resulting in growth stunt. But if you lift properly then their will be no such problem.

Factors which can damage the growth plate:-

1. Lifting of too heavy weights.

2. Improper form in lifting.

3. Lack of supervision.

4. Lack of technique.

5. No proper stretching of muscles after the workout.

If you are a beginner start with body weight exercises at first like body weight pushups, squats, lunges, pullups, calf raises etc. To have less problem while lifting, start with these body weight exercises, it will help you build a base for your strength. It will make you able to sustain the weights at the beginning.

Safety in lifting weights before 18:-

1. First concentrate on proper technique by using lighter weights and execute each repetation slowly.

2. Remember your goal must be strength and not size of the muscles,

so improvise the weight as per your athletic requirements.

3. Always try to workout under supervision of your coach or personal

trainer.

4. The most important you must have patience. It takes time to improve or build strength of your muscle.

5. Never forget to warm before the workout and proper stretch after workout. This helps in muscle recovery.

Benefits of lifting weights:-

1. It makes your muscles and bones strong.

2. Weight lifting results in weight loss as it is important exercise in reducing excess fat.

3. By exercising your blood-flow improves as your muscles get pumped and it also reduces the health risk.

4. It changes your overall appearance. You look attractive as you get in good shape.

5. Your self-confidence grows as you start felling the power or strength you have.

6. Lifting of weights enhances your psychology you feel better after working out.

So if you are under 18 and interested to engage in strength training program then go for it, just keep the safety precautions in your mind.

It will help you build your athletic performance and will also improve your overall personality.