Lifting weights inhibits growth in teens and children
the verdict
REFUTED
the evidence says no
confidence 15/100
Scientific evidence refutes the long-standing myth that weightlifting and resistance training inhibit growth in children and teenagers; instead, properly supervised resistance training is safe, beneficial for development, and improves muscular fitness without stunting height.
Evidence against · 3
Effects of Resistance Training in Youth Athletes on Muscular Fitness and Athletic Performance: A Conceptual Model for Long-Term Athlete Development
2016 · cited by 276
This scoping review demonstrates that resistance training is safe and effective for youth athletes, improving muscular fitness and promoting long-term health without indicating negative effects on overall growth.
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More against · 2
Taking A Long-Term Approach to the Development of Weightlifting Ability in Young Athletes
2020 · cited by 9
This article highlights that youth participation in weightlifting is safe and beneficial when properly supervised, debunking previous misconceptions regarding negative impacts on development.
Effect of exercise on hormonal responses in adolescents with obesity and leptin resistance: a randomized trial.
2026 · cited by 0
This randomized trial found that structured exercise in adolescents actually improved growth parameters, height, muscle mass, and growth hormone profiles rather than inhibiting them.