Weightlifting Misconceptions
Families that are centered around being healthy and active will be faced with many questions regarding when to start their children in strength training, foods that they should eat, and when is the right time to start taking muscle growth supplements. For starters, strength training and weightlifting are not the same thing, and neither should be used until the age of at least 6 or 7, or whenever the child is comfortable after that. Weightlifting or powerlifting is often used for competitions and involves lifting heavy amounts in hopes of getting an edge over opponents. Weight lifting should not be performed until teenage years, as it can rupture growth plates and cause severe muscle strains. Teenagers that first start weightlifting should use lower weights and higher repetitions to become flexible and build the ability to move weight around. According to Edward Laskowski, M.D., on bodybuilding.com, "Heavy lifting can put too much strain on young muscles, tendons and growth plates, especially when proper technique is sacrificed in favor of lifting larger amounts of weight.” A healthy alternative for 7 year olds to 12 year olds, on the other hand, is body weight training. Sit-ups, push-ups, jumping jacks, and running are all types of body-weight exercises that are good for children. "Not the way an adult male would increase muscle size -- they won't get bulky and big like an adult, but will have increased strength," says Teri M. McCambridge, MD. The positive things that come out of strength training is being in better shape for sports, making your body healthier as a whole, and also boosting self-esteem. As for diet plans, it is simple. A healthy diet comes from a well-rounded diet. So a good serving of vegetables and fruit mixed in with a high amount of protein can help muscles stronger. Muscle growth supplements should not be taken until the teenager is experienced in weightlifting and is committed to becoming stronger for sports. A multi-vitamin in the morning can help get in minerals that are lost throughout the day. The best type of supplement for a weightlifter would be protein powder in flavors such as chocolate and vanilla. Using protein powder after or before workouts can boost muscle growth. Stay away from anything that dehydrates you or makes your heart rate rise unless you get confirmation from a doctor. Stay away from energy drinks as they are loaded with sugar and can cause your heart to race. Have a healthy diet, be smart in the way you work out, always take breaks in between, and always have a workout partner to encourage and motivate.
