RELATED OUTCOMES OF STRENGTH TRAINING IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS: A CONTEMPORARY REVIEW OF THE RELEVANT LITERATURE

Abstract

Muscle strength is an essential element of any movement, whether in sport or in daily activity. However, despite its trainability, an aspect often studied in adults, the same is not verified in the strength training development in youth. Currently, there is a wealth of information available, often contradictory, about what is safe or appropriate for pre-and post-puberty strength training and development. In this point of view, we will briefly discuss some of the current and relevant literature and provide evidence-based practical recommendations for resistance exercise training in children and adolescents, according to international recommendations. The results revealed that the child is, from a biological and metabolic point of view, a non-specialized organism, where adaptations occur without the need for a high level of stimulation. Recent data indicate that resistance training programs, well-structured and appropriately prescribed and supervised by trained specialists, are safe and provide unique benefits for youth, such as increased strength and muscle power, reduced cardiovascular risk, helps weight control, strengthens bones, increases psychosocial well-being, improves motor performance skills, and may reduce sports-related injuries, and should be viewed as an essential component of preparatory training programs for aspiring young athletes. Current recommendations suggest that school-aged youth should participate daily in 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity that is safe, effective, and enjoyable. Regular participation in a variety of physical activities during childhood and adolescence can support and encourage participation in physical activity as an ongoing lifestyle choice later in life.