When you consider those who have ripped bodies, whose pictures readily come to mind? Perhaps Taylor Lautner who starred as Jake in “Twilight”‘; or Zac Effron‘s post “High School Musical” body; and if you are a girl you are probably thinking of Zoe Saldana in “Colombiana.” Whoever your idol is, you probably fantasize about having a body like that.
But before you go off with the aim of transforming yourself into an overnight success, consider these important tips.
What are the Benefits?
Weightlifting for teenagers has similar benefits as it does for adults, although much of it depends at the current stage of puberty. Before puberty, most teens will notice an increase in strength as a result of weightlifting, but may not notice much increase in muscle mass. After puberty, teens are much more likely to notice increase in muscles when weightlifting. All said, much still depends on diet and genes.
The Don’ts
Incorporating weightlifting and other strength training into an exercise program can be quite beneficial as long as the person doesn’t over do it, which could result in injuries. Even adults can encounter serious injuries if weightlifting is done incorrectly or in excess, and the risk for teenagers is even greater. Teenage bodies are still growing, and this leaves their bodies vulnerable to serious injuries if weightlifting is not done with caution and within the limitations of the teenager’s body.
For this reason, weightlifting should only be one aspect of a total workout regimen. Teenagers should not delve into power lifting or competitive weightlifting until their bodies are ready for such taxing activities. Additionally, teenagers should not participate in a body building form of weightlifting. This strenuous form of exercise is not appropriate for growing bodies, and may result in injuries without providing any visible muscular bulk.
Weightlifting for Teenagers
Teenagers participating in weightlifting should never allow themselves be pressed to lift weights beyond their capabilities.
If you’re considering participating in weightlifting as a teenager, set yourself up for a successful workout regimen by equipping yourself properly.
1. Consider a Professional Personal Trainer
A professional personal trainer can be expensive, but this expense is certainly worth it if you are serious about weightlifting. A personal trainer will design a workout regimen that is appropriate to your age and physical capabilities. But if you cannot afford one, it’s better to stick to dumbbells – starting with the lighter ones, and progressing to the heavier ones as you get stronger.
2. Remember that Pain is not Gain
Teens should never push themselves beyond their physical capabilities because this can result in an injury. If at any point during your weightlifting you start to feel pain, stop what you are doing immediately.
3. Be Reasonable
Teenagers may not be able to achieve a “ripped” appearance no matter how much weightlifting they do. For this reason, teens who do not achieve the physical results they are looking for should not start taking supplements designed for adults or increase their weightlifting levels unreasonably.
It is always a good idea to visit a doctor for a complete physical prior to beginning any new exercise regimen, and weightlifting for teenagers is no exception. Physicians can provide a sports physical that will reveal whether a teenager’s body can endure the rigours of weightlifting. In most cases, a teen will receive the nod to start weightlifting as long as the teen is healthy and stays within his/her weightlifting limits.
4. Machines or Free Weights
Teens may want to start weightlifting with the help of machines because this can be much less taxing on their bodies. Another option is to start with free weights, but to begin with weights that are relatively light and then work their way up to heavier weights.
Teenagers should use caution when starting a weightlifting routine, but if done properly it can set the stage for a strong, healthy body far into the future.
