Prescription of strength training in children and adolescents

Abstract

In the last decade, there has been a notable increase in the implementation of strength training programs in sports for children and adolescents. This review of strength training includes potential health benefits, fitness, risks and recommendations for the healthy, overweight, obese, or sedentary population in children 7-19 years of age. The general guidelines include supervision, planning and proper learning of the technique. The results revealed that the children are, from a metabolic point of view, a non-specialized organism, where adaptations happen without the need for a high level of stimulation. Scientific evidence and clinical experience of strength training in children and adolescents as part of a training program demonstrate that it is useful, effective and safe if properly prescribed and supervised, with potential health benefits on a physical, social and psychological level. Recent data indicate that strength training programs, well-structured and adequately supervised by trained specialists, are safe and provide unique benefits for children and adolescents, such as increased strength and muscle power, decreased cardiovascular risk, helps weight control, strengthens bones, increases psychosocial well-being, improves motor performance skills and reduces the risk of injury in young athletes.