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Improving Strength, Power, Muscle Aerobic Capacity, and Glucose Tolerance through Short-term Progressive Strength Training Among Elderly People
Published on: July 5, 2017
Strength training for children and adolescents: what can physicians recommend?
Holly J Benjamin1, Kimberly M Glow
1Departments of Pediatrics and Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
The Physician and Sportsmedicine
|January 21, 2010
Summary
Pediatric strength training is safe and effective for children and adolescents when supervised. It can help with sports performance and weight management while minimizing injury risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sports Medicine
- Adolescent Health
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Primary care physicians frequently field questions regarding pediatric strength training.
- Parents inquire about enhancing athletic performance and managing childhood obesity through exercise.
- Concerns exist regarding potential musculoskeletal injuries and epiphyseal fractures in young athletes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To inform clinicians about the safety and efficacy of strength training for children and adolescents.
- To provide evidence-based guidance for parents seeking appropriate exercise programs for their children.
- To address parental concerns about sports injuries and weight management in pediatric populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on pediatric strength training.
- Analysis of safety protocols and injury data in supervised youth programs.
- Guidelines for age-appropriate exercise prescription and supervision.
Main Results:
- Supervised strength training programs are safe and effective for children and adolescents.
- Proper technique, equipment, and adult supervision are crucial for minimizing injury risk.
- Strength training can contribute to improved athletic performance and support weight management efforts.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians can confidently recommend supervised strength training for pediatric populations.
- Strength training, when appropriately implemented, offers significant benefits for child and adolescent health.
- Addressing parental concerns with evidence-based information empowers informed decision-making regarding youth fitness programs.
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