Strength Training Not Weight Training
By Brian M. Torpey, M.D.

Some of the most frequently asked questions from young patient’s are directed at weight lifting.

Parents are often concerned about their preadolescent children who may be “lifting weights too early”. Concern for muscle injuries, growth stunting and loss of flexibility are the most frequent fears young athletes mention as they consider whether or not to initiate a strength training program.

In actuality, strength training is really a conditioning technique that focuses on repetitive exertion of muscle force against resisting objects such as barbells, dumbbells and the use of machines or body weight. Weightlifting is actually a sport geared towards lifting a maximum weight using specific techniques.

Several studies have indicated that strength training is safe for young athletes as long as proper training techniques and supervision are provided.

Safety precautions are an important consideration in weight training and observation of these precautions will limit potential injuries?