The "Hard Facts" on Youth Resistance Training

In a follow up to last weeks post on youth training, I was informed that I should present "Hard facts" and "Research" in regards to youth training. While I personally feel that Rippetoe and Kilgore present the subject matter in a more palatable manner, I feel obligated to follow through with this request.

The Updated National Strength and Conditioning Association

Position Paper on Youth Training

The National Strength and Conditioning Association is widely regarded as the leading authority on "Research" based strength training. Their 20 page tome on youth weight training is considered to be both the legal and professional reference for all practitioners in the industry.

(Avery Faigenbaum working teaching box squats to pre-teen children)

Avery Faigenbaum who campaigns many of the youth training efforts of the NSCA comes with highest credentials steep in awards, accolades and results. I personally respect Avery's work because he doesn't just research the effects of youth training, he PRACTICES youth training. Climbing down from the ivory tower of education and seeing what is really going on with this generation propels his work far ahead of anyone else.

In case you still have doubt regarding the work of Avery, attached is his bio and resume.

Faigenbaum Publications

Faigenbaum's Education Background

Hurray for youth training!

Thoughts on Youth Training

Nearly every day, it seems like I am approached by parents about whether or not weight training is "safe" for the youth population. Without a doubt the concept of training has been so clouded with the images of bulging muscles and massive amounts of weight.

Many parents ask for resources regarding the topic and I often refer to the following excerpt from Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe and Lon Kilgore. The two legends put it best, so I'll let them speak for themselves.

Click Here to read "Misconceptions of Youth Training" by Lon Kilgore, PHD