Too Young Or Old For Fitness Training?
We all know that exercise is fantastic for our health. It keeps us fitter, leaner and stronger as well as happier. Yet, a lot of people believe that working out should be kept in a specific age range to keep us healthy. Is this true? Let’s take a look:
A common thought is that weightlifting isn’t safe for children under the age of 12 because it affects their growth. Luckily, this myth doesn’t really have any scientific backing to it as weightlifting carries with it a whole host of benefits.
The American Council on Exercise[1] has stated that there is no evidence at all to support the claims that children should not lift weights under 12 or that it will stunt their growth. They go on further to say that ‘all of the major fitness and medical organisations in the U.S. recommend strength training for youth.’
So, this doesn’t mean that your kids need to turn into the next Arnold Schwarzenegger, it simply means that they can enjoy an exercise class or trip to the gym if they want to. Kids tend to be very active already. If they’re not, it’s simply about finding the form of exercise they enjoy best. If it makes them happy then they’ll love doing it.
At the other end of the spectrum, we have exercise in old age. You may think that as you get older then exercise becomes unsafe and you have to stay seated in a comfy armchair for the rest of your life. However, this is another misconception. Exercise, as we get older, is as important if not more so than the rest of our lives as it keeps us safe and helps us to maintain independence.
It teaches us proprioception (awareness of our surroundings) which reduces the risk of falls.
It strengthens the bones which reduce the risk of breaking things
It improves brain function
It increases muscular strength which keeps us independent and capable
If you think that you’re missing out on some of these advantages simply because of your age then come and see us at iOme Fitness. We have courses and private classes to offer for all ages.
[1] http://www.acefitness.org/acefit/fitness-fact-article/2682/strength-training-for-kids-a-guide/