In a recent conversation, a friend who happens to be a strength coach for young athletes shared something surprising: fewer parents are enrolling their kids in weight training programs. As someone who was thrown into the weight room at 12 years old with little more instruction than “have fun,” this trend seemed baffling. So, of course, I turned to the Athletic Directors 411 readers; According to last week’s survey, 80% of high school ADs have experienced a parent requesting to opt their child out of a weightlifting or strength training program. But why? The issue is more nuanced than it appears.
Parents, coaches, and even some educators remain torn. Online, you’ll find countless articles both advocating for and cautioning against youth strength training. It’s no wonder many parents are unsure of what’s best. As athletic directors, it’s important to understand the fears behind the hesitation, what the science says, and how we can guide families and coaching staff toward safe, effective training for student-athletes.
In the spirit of last week’s article, debunking neuromyths, let’s get into the myths surrounding weightlifting!
Debunking the Myths: What’s Fueling the Fear?
Misinformation is the biggest barrier. One of the most persistent myths — “lifting stunts growth” — has been thoroughly debunked, yet it lives on in school hallways and parent-teacher meetings. Other concerns include:
- Growth plate injuries: While growth plates are more vulnerable in youth, properly designed training programs minimize this risk.
- Bone damage: On the contrary, strength training increases bone density and supports skeletal development.
- High injury risk: Studies show that when performed under proper supervision, weight training actually reduces the risk of sports injuries in young athletes.
Any form of exercise, any sport, possesses the possibility of injury. The reality is that unstructured, unsupervised activity, like heavy lifting without guidance or copying older athletes’ routines, is the true danger.
The Benefits: Why Youth Strength Training Matters
Far from being harmful, structured strength training provides a host of benefits to growing athletes, including:
- Improved muscle strength: Builds a foundation for athletic performance in all sports.
- Injury prevention: Stronger muscles and joints are more resilient during high-impact play.
- Better bone health: Enhances bone mass, reducing the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
- Boosted confidence and body awareness: Teaches discipline, coordination, and a sense of achievement.
- Enhanced sports performance: From speed to agility, strength training helps young athletes excel.
How Athletic Directors Can Lead the Way
You play a pivotal role in shaping the approach to strength training in your school’s athletic programs. Here’s how you can make a difference:
1. Educate Parents and Staff
Host informational sessions or provide literature that highlights the safety and benefits of youth weight training. Bring in certified strength and conditioning specialists to address questions and dispel myths.
2. Hire Certified Coaches
Ensure that strength programs are led by professionals trained in working with youth populations. Certifications from organizations like the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) or National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) add credibility and reduce risk.
3. Develop Age-Appropriate Programs
Design tiered strength training systems that start with bodyweight exercises and progress based on physical maturity, not just age.
4. Emphasize Technique Over Load
Teach athletes proper form, breathing, and safety protocols before adding weight. Make technique the measure of success, not how much they can lift.
5. Create a Positive Culture
Encourage a safe, inclusive, and supportive weight room environment. When athletes feel confident and empowered, they’ll carry those attitudes into their sports — and their lives.
Let’s replace fear with facts, and myths with muscle.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Students should always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any exercise program.
