As a certified personal trainer, I frequently get asked, "What age should my teenager start going to the gym?" "What should a 14-year-old do at the gym?" or "Is it safe for my teen to start lifting weights?"
There's much debate about teens in the gym, and opinions vary among parents, personal trainers, and other experts.
In this blog, I'll explore the benefits, address some common concerns, and lay out practical guidelines for teens eager to start their fitness journeys!
Starting a gym routine when you're young has a lot of immediate and long-lasting benefits. This is why more and more teens and their parents are excited to get active and embrace a healthy lifestyle together. Regular physical activity can help teens:
Starting a gym routine at a young age creates a solid foundation for a lifetime of healthy living. When kids develop fitness habits early, they're much more likely to keep those habits as they grow up. So, starting in the gym early can be a great way to help them create a lifestyle that prioritizes health and well-being for years to come.
One of the biggest benefits of starting a gym routine as a teen is that it will really boost their physical fitness. Not only does regular exercise improve cardiovascular health, but it helps them build strength, endurance, and flexibility. For teens who play sports or want to enhance their athletic skills, regularly working out in the gym will help level their performance and feel great!
Regular exercise can help boost self-esteem and confidence in teens. As their strength and abilities improve, most kids will feel much better about their bodies and themselves. Kids at this age are actively navigating the challenges of finding a sense of self-identity, and fitness offers a positive outlet that they can use to feel empowered!
The gym can be great for making new friends and connecting with peers! As the idea of getting children and teens in the gym becomes more popular, more gyms offer more ways for teens to exercise in a supportive atmosphere or with other professionals. Working out with someone is a fun way for them to socialize while working toward a fitness goal!
While there are plenty of benefits to starting a gym routine as a teen, there are also some important concerns to keep in mind:
One of the main worries is the chance of injury from improper technique or lifting weights that are too heavy. Since teens may not have fully developed motor skills yet, it's crucial to have supervision and proper training in place to keep them safe.
Teens vary widely in emotional maturity. Some may not yet be ready for the self-discipline and commitment a serious workout routine requires, which can lead to frustration or negative feelings about working out.
If you’re thinking about starting a gym routine or you're a parent supporting a young teen’s interest in fitness, here are some practical guidelines to consider as they get started:
If you’re considering starting a gym routine or are the parent of a young teen interested in fitness, here are some guidelines to follow:
Before starting any exercise program, it’s a good idea to talk to a certified personal trainer, especially one experienced with teens. They can assess your teen's needs and create a safe workout plan suited to their age and abilities.
Start by teaching proper exercise techniques and body mechanics. This foundation is key for building good habits, preventing injuries, and ensuring workouts are effective and enjoyable.
Encouraging a mix of strength training, cardio, flexibility, and balance work can keep workouts fun and engaging. This well-rounded approach helps reduce the risk of injuries tied to specific sports.
Since teens are still growing, they need plenty of rest and recovery. Overtraining can lead to burnout and injuries, so it's essential to pay attention to how their bodies feel and adjust their routines accordingly.
Remind teens that fitness is just one part of a healthy lifestyle. Along with exercise, highlight the importance of proper nutrition, rest, mental health, and overall well-being.
So, is your teen too young to start a gym routine? There isn't necessarily one right or wrong answer. With the right guidance, a focus on safety, and an emphasis on enjoyment and education, starting a gym routine can be a positive and transformative experience for young teens.
Like any adult's fitness journey, starting with the right knowledge and intention is important to ensure long-term wellness.
If your teen is eager to get started in the gym, the best way you can support your child's health goals is to talk with a qualified personal trainer who can help tailor a program that best fits their needs!