My boys want to lift with mama

[CamaroLady]

Hi,
Totally new here, I have a question my boys 10 & 7 keep pestering me to let them workout with me when I do my Cathe weight DVDs. I've been putting them off because I don't know what a safe weight for them to lift is. I know they shouldn't be lifting anything too heavy for their ages but does anyone know where I should start with them and how heavy they should be allowed to lift?

Cathe love your DVDs and videos been with you since your Wedding Workout. Saving up for STS and accessories.

Thanks for any advice in advance,

 

[Boingo1]

I let my 10 and 8 year old use the 3 and 5 lbs weights. My 10 yr old will go heavier sometimes. Personally, I think it's important to get their form right, and they are awkward with the weights to start, so it's best to use the lighter weights.

 

[pjlippert]

Hi there,

I let my 7 year old son "workout" with me using 2-3lbs weights. Needless to say, he doesn't last for long, but that's not the point. He just loves working out with Cathe and more importantly, with his mommy!! We have fun doing Butts & Gutts- he loves the exercise ball, he also has a blast doing MMA Kickbox, Tae Bo and sometimes Insanity. Again, he does at his pace and we have fun working out together!

Enjoy!
Pam

 

[CamaroLady]

Thank you for your input. I'll get out the light weights and let them go from there.

 

[handels]

I was just researching this for my master's degree in Exercise Physiology. I think you're on the right track by keeping it light and focusing on form. Heavy lifting in children can strain their connective tissue and potentially encourage early closure of the epiphyseal plates which would limit growth. ACSM says the weight for children should allow a minimum of 8 repetitions per movement.

Two other things to emphasize for them (especially with boys and as they get a bit older) is that there are benefits besides bigger muscles (since they won't have dramatic results before puberty) and to minimize competition. I read that a lot of issues for adolescents stem from bad form and injuries that result from competing with peers. The research also stressed proper supervision which shouldn't be a problem since they will be working out with you.

Here's a little article from the Mayo Clinic which also suggests bodyweight and resistance tubing exercises as an option - http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/strength-training/hq01010