Strength training by children and adolescents

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Sports Medicine
• Adolescent Health
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Pediatricians frequently advise on pediatric strength training.
• This review updates a prior American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define terminology related to pediatric strength training.
• To provide current information on the risks and benefits of strength training for children and adolescents.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis.
• Revision of existing policy statement.

Main Results:

• Provides updated definitions for strength training in pediatric populations.
• Summarizes current evidence on the safety and efficacy of strength training for youth.

Conclusions:

• Strength training can be safe and beneficial for children and adolescents when appropriately supervised.
• Updated guidance supports pediatricians in advising families on youth resistance exercise.