Weight training for children Douglas Mangan, MD, is a board-
certified orthopedic surgeon on staff at Banner Estrella Medical
Center. Question: Is weight training safe for children? How do I
know how much exercise is too much at a certain age? Answer:
Children from grade school to high school are competing in
athletics of all levels and, though exercise is good for all
children, every activity isn’t suitable for every child. Looking
to achieve a competitive edge, parents and young athletes may
find themselves bombarded with confusing, and often conflicting,
information regarding the safety and effectiveness of youth
strength training. Studies suggest children as young as 6 can
improve strength and may enhance fitness skills and sports
performance when following age-specific guidelines for strength
training. Strength training shows no effect on growth patterns;
however, parents should create a well-supervised program to
decrease the risk of injury. Body weight exercises (e.g., sit-
ups, push-ups) are best for be