If you have a child aged 6-8 and you want them to start exercising, you may find yourself wondering what the best solution for their age is. Some people think it’s just fine for kids to exercise, while others disagree.

The short answer is: yes. Although there are a few things to keep in mind once your child starts to partake in physical activity or weight training, it is still beneficial overall.

Children are still developing and as such an entirely different set of parenting techniques are required. Children need nurturing, love and care more than they need hard rules or punishment.

Childhood is a time of rapid growth and development, which can affect a person’s bone health. Girls should get plenty of exercise during this period as it can have an effect that lasts for their entire life.”

Children are often vulnerable to overuse illnesses such as Osgood-Schlatter. The unique anatomy of a child means the internal temperature regulation system can be less efficient than an adult. Kids are more likely to get injured when they haven’t warmed up thoroughly in order to compensate for this.

Children don’t perspire much when it’s hot, so they’re more at risk of heat exhaustion and a heat stroke. Since their muscle mass is lower and their hormones are still developing, it’s harder for them to quickly cool down.

Because children can’t regulate their breathing and heart rate as well during exercise as adults, doing too much can cause an imbalance in the blood gases that lead to fatigue.

Children have a different physiological structure, so weight training can yield different effects. Young boys and girls, ” when they begin to exert themselves strenuously” are more likely to develop an ability to eventually play competitive sports.

One of the first considerations for designing a workout or training program for kids is to check with their doctor first. Keep the workload appropriate for their age range and aim for around 8 – 12 repetitions.

Try to space out your workouts so you have at least 1-2 full days of rest in between. You need to concentrate on your form and not the weight, if you have any questions just ask.

Before you start weightlifting, make sure to warm up first, do some stretches, and start out slowly. When introducing your kids to weightlifting, ensure they start with a light load before making any adjustments. It’s also important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout. Do no more than 3 consecutive aerobic sessions in a week. Itʼs important to stay hydrated when exercising, especially with kids. As they are often thirsty and easily get dehydrated.