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2003/01/17, 08:01 AM
I have started what I would hope is a new lifestyle with fitness as part of my every day activity. My Son who is 10 y/o would like to join me. Is this wise? If it is what type of routine can I give him.
thanks,
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2003/01/17, 08:35 AM
You need to be VERY careful anyone who is younger than about 16 (at least 14) lifting heavy weights. This is for many reasons apart from injuries due to miss use and accidents there are other factors such as bone deformation that could disfigure them permanently. Set against this, children should lead an active life.
The generally accepted view (that I have come across) is that lifting of heavy weights should be avoided but natural resistance exercises (press ups, pull ups) are fine as is almost all cardio work. I spent my whole childhood running around climbing ect something that this generation often miss out to (in my opinion the detriment of there long-term heath).
If you train at home you could also invest in a light set of aerobics weights then when you do your exercises he could mimic what you are doing, only the weights will be so light there will be no risk of injury. Though extra care will be needed both when you are exercising and to stop him trying to lift heavier weights when you are not about. If you train at a gym most do not allow children in (to prevent accidents) so the decision might have already been made for you. If you do have him train with you take care not to force him when he dose not want to, this could put him off healthy exercise for life.
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2003/01/17, 09:34 AM
Thank you!
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2003/01/17, 07:41 PM
My 11 yr old has been training at home, because at my gym they don't let in under 14. Erirvine makes 100% sense. Make sure also that your son does NOT use any machines. Even the home gyms. Stay with light dumbells 2-7 lbs. Do all the arm excersises, and get him into cardio. Children have growth plates in different areas, arm, legs, back, rib cage etc, and heavy weights will damage these. Get him doing crunches while you hold his feet, push-ups and chin ups over a door frame.
Good Luck and keep it fun. When he says he can't don't push it. Keep it fun.
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The trouble with jogging is that, by the time you realize you are not in shape for it, it is too far to walk back! Franklin P. Jones
Ivan Montreal Canada
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