Introducing your child to sports at an early age is one way of leading him to healthy lifestyle habits. Lifting weights or strength training is one of the many exercises that have been proven beneficial even to children. Weightlifting for children helps grow their muscles promoting stronger bones. The metabolism of the body is increased as its cholesterol level goes down. If your child is already into sports, this exercise can make him gain more endurance and at the same time develop tougher muscles which can prevent joint and muscles injuries. Other than these physical benefits, your child will also get a boost in his or her self esteem.

Do not confuse weightlifting for children with power lifting or body building. While lifting of weights or weight training is beneficial to children, the latter can be very dangerous. Power lifting puts excessive strain on the muscles, joints, cartilages and tendons of your child's very fragile body and puts him at risk for major injuries. These dangers are aggravated when your child is not well- acquainted with the proper lifting techniques and procedures in weight training. More muscles will be damaged and irreparable injuries will be sustained. It is essential that you explain to your child the concept of strength training and power lifting. Put added emphasis on safety and the realistic goal of simply improving his muscle strength rather competing with other power lifters. Giving him the impression that he is going to be the next muscle man of the world compels him to over shoot his marks.

The ideal age or this activity is around 8 or 9 years old. By this time many children can already grasp the concept of strength training and integrate it in their own lifestyle. Exposing your child at a younger age, especially when cannot yet get a strong grasp of the whole concept of strength training, makes them prone to injuries.

In order to prevent injuries make sure that your child has a good understanding of the activity. Hire a coach if you cannot supervise him yourself or if you feel that you do not have sufficient knowledge about it. Check with your child's doctor before undertaking the strength program especially if you suspect that your child has certain heart condition such as juvenile hypertension.

The amount of weight is dependent on your child's body strength. Never overwork your child. A good way of determining the ideal weight for your child to work on is to make him choose a weight that he or she can lift 8 to 15 times. If that is not possible for him to do then that means that the weight is too heavy for your child and you should find a lighter load. Weightlifting for children should never be rushed. Start with a light weight. There should be no problem about starting at a very light weight since this can be increased over time when your child has already increased muscle strength. Consult a trained professional when you are in doubt.