Exercising for Kids & Teens

Although the MAX Workouts program is not specifically designed for kids, it can definitely be used by children as young as 13 years old if they have proper guidance and supervision.  If your child has never done weight training before, I would strongly advise that he or she go through a basic introductory class for weight training in order to learn the proper technique for fundamental exercises such as squats, deadlifts, lunges, press-ups, push-ups and pull-ups.  Once they are familiar with these exercises and feel comfortable doing them with weights, they will be able to participate in the program.

If your child does participate in the program, it’s important to read over the section about scaling the workouts.  All workouts can be scaled down to meet the level of your child’s fitness and strength.  Pick the loads (weights) according to their current abilities.  All other variables (rest intervals and speed) can also be adjusted to meet their level as well.  Although the program is based on intensity and it’s encouraged that they give 100% effort, it’s important to start out with a manageable level of difficulty so that they can make gradual progress as they go through the program.  Also, getting a sense of accomplishment is vital to their continued motivation and development.

Contrary to popular belief, weight training will not stunt the growth of a youth (that’s a myth).  If the appropriate load is used and proper techniques for the exercises are taught, weight training is incredibly beneficial to the strength and athletic development of a youth.