There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to whether or not kids should lift weights.
The common theory is that the child should have at least reached puberty before they engage in a sport such as weight lifting.
This will also depend on the individual child.
As a child is growing the connective ligaments and cartilage are not fully formed and can be injured or torn if too much stress is placed on the joints.
This often occurs when the exercises are being done improperly and no set program is in place.
With the correct program and the proper supervision I feel that a child as young as twelve or thirteen can certainly begin a weight training program providing it is done with the utmost attention to safety and proper form.
The child must understand the dangers involved and the potential for injury if they don't do the exercises the correct way.
I started lifting at twelve years old and didn't have the proper instruction or supervision.
I learned the hard way by injuring myself several times because I really didn't know what I was doing.
All I knew is that I wanted to get big like the guys I saw in the magazines.
I soon learned that it was going to take a lot of hard work and effort if I was going to get anywhere in this sport.
If you are asking yourself, should kids lift weights, then you might have a child that is interested.
What you need to do is educate yourself the best you can and know that your child will be relying on you for the supervision and guidance to help them get the most out of weight lifting that they can.
You will have to dedicate a lot of time and energy to see that they are doing it the correct way and not at risk for injury.
You will become their coach and training partner.
It is a great way to bond with your child and will be remembered for years to come.
I started my son out when he was thirteen and it is something we enjoy doing together and will always have that bond.
Get the right program from the start.
It will help cut down on the learning curve.
Just because you may have lifted in the past doesn't mean that it is the best way for your child.
Remember it's the child that we are concerned about here.