Date of Award

1994

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Thomas Mohr

Keywords

Exercise -- physiology; Weight Lifting; Muscles -- physiology

Abstract

Strength training in the child and adolescent has been a controversial topic for quite a few years. Current research has changed the thoughts of many professionals regarding strength gains or the possibility of strength gains in the prepubertal and adolescent age groups. Part of the controversy lies with the fact that some believe it is not safe for a child to do resistance training as it may cause various injuries such as musculoskeletal sprains and strains and epiphyseal fractures.

A review of the literature indicates that strength gains can occur in prepubertal children and that training with weights can be a safe activity for children provided proper supervision and techniques are used.

The purpose of this study is to analyze research on strength gains after training in children, to explore injury potential, types of injuries, and other aspects of health strength training may benefit. Finally, recommendations on how to design a strength training program for children will be given.

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