Many fitness enthusiasts recall lifting weights during their younger years, dreaming of resembling their favourite superhero, professional athlete or bodybuilder. A common concern is whether lifting weights at a young age might hinder growth. This belief has gained traction, often due to protective parents or friends skeptical about weightlifting. Repeated exposure to this idea might even make it seem true. So let’s see what science says about this theory.
The Science
During adolescence, long bones like those in your legs and arms have epiphyseal plates at each end. These plates are made of hyaline cartilage and are crucial for bone growth. They lengthen bones by producing and regenerating chondrocytes, the cells responsible for ossification. The worry is that weightlifting might adversely affect these growth plates, potentially limiting skeletal growth potential/height.
Research Findings
What does research say? Actually, there’s not much evidence to back up the idea that weightlifting stunts growth. Some studies suggest that weightlifting could even promote growth by increasing levels of hormones like testosterone, growth hormone (GH), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), but conclusive evidence is lacking.
Damage to the growth plates has been linked to injuries from improper lifting technique rather than weightlifting itself. When these injuries are treated, growth rates typically return to normal. Moreover, many other activities pose a greater risk of injury than weightlifting. So, if you're a young aspiring lifter, it's generally safe as long as you focus on proper technique, safety and not lifting more weight than your current strength level can handle.
Before beginning any new workout regimen, remember to consult with your friendly neighbourhood fitness professional.
Emmanuel Ofori - eMotivates
Your friendly neighbourhood fitness professional
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