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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/lift-youth-growth-plates-myth

Is supervised strength training with light weights harmful to a kid's growth plates?

No. The AAP says it is not harmful when supervised with low weight and high reps.

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  1. Yes, it always stunts growth
  2. Only if they lift on weekends
  3. No, not when supervised with low weight ✔

Why: The American Academy of Pediatrics calls growth plate damage a myth for supervised training with low weight and high repetitions. Research even shows it is safer than playing soccer, football and basketball.

Huh, didn't know that: The AAP also says strength training does not reduce flexibility, especially when combined with stretching.

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Lifting won't stunt your growth, but my dad jokes might stunt your patience.
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References

Answer: No, not when supervised with low weight. The American Academy of Pediatrics calls growth plate damage a myth for supervised training with low weight and high repetitions. Research even shows it is safer than playing soccer, football and basketball.

  1. AAP HealthyChildren.org: Strength Training www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/sports/Pages/Strength-Training.aspx
    Strength training is not harmful to the growth plates when done in supervised settings using low weight and high repetitions.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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