MAG Pre-Pubescent Boys and Muscle Building

[lilmisssunshine]

I'm confused about something and hoping someone can help me sort it out. I remember reading something in the past about how boys shouldn't try to build up their muscles until they've reached puberty. I can't find anything about that again, but my dad mentioned it the other day too, so it's on my mind.

However, there's obviously the conditioning aspect of gymnastics, and I think they do that sort of thing in all the other sports as well, so...what gives?

Is the deal that boys shouldn't lift weights, but that conditioning through pushups and whatnot is totally fine? Am I just not remembering what I read correctly?

 

[sce]

Is the deal that boys shouldn't lift weights, but that conditioning through pushups and whatnot is totally fine? Am I just not remembering what I read correctly?

I've heard kids, not just boys, should not do weight training. Conditioning using only their own weight is different.

 

[skschlag]

Yes. ^^^^ that. Really until after puberty, the best weight is body weight. they can condition the best with just their own body weight, and probably even after that!

 

[lilmisssunshine]

Thanks that makes sense. My dad was sorta coming down on me hard for it, and I just wasn't sure what's what.

 

[Byrd_USA]

There are 2 types of weight training.
Anaerobic. BAD 4 KIDS.
by definition anaerobic exercise uses oxygen faster than the body can replenish. So the body uses energy from substrates like carbs, phosphates. Things your body needs to grow.
Simply to build muscle, your tearing it down. things like ankle weights / heavy lifting can also damage joint ligaments.

Aerobic exercise ( Cardio) pertains to the use of oxygen through activities performed for extended periods of time.
Light weights used correctly are a good method of increasing strength and endurance.
However most gymnastics events are anaerobic . so while you increase your stamina your not going to see much gain for your sport.
If not properly introduced to cardio fit / light lifting. you would be smart to get the same benefits from swimming or biking.