Strength Training for Children and Adolescents: Safety, Motivation, and Impact on Physical Development
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Insufficient physical activity during childhood and adolescence remains a persistent public health problem, and current international guidelines consider muscle conditioning to be an essential—rather than optional—component of physical activity for young people. Within the framework of these recommendations, strength training—that is, structured exercises involving progressive external resistance or bodyweight—occupies a distinct and increasingly important place. This article summarizes the current evidence and expert opinions on strength training for children and adolescents in four areas: safety and the conditions that determine it; training principles based on developmental level rather than chronological age; effects on physical development (muscle strength, fundamental motor skills, bone health, and the formation of healthy habits); and risks associated with improper program implementation. It is demonstrated that these risks stem from how the training is conducted, rather than the training modality itself. The article concludes with recommendations for coaches, teachers, and parents.
Authors: A.S Danyshchuk, K.S Kateryna, V.S Kostrikov
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204450282