Ok i need to get this straight, does lifting weights stunt your growth?

Question

I asked everyone gym teacher and they all gave me different responses. I want a smart answer thats more than one word please. And can you tell me if its only specific excersizes or machines that do.

Answer 1

No, it does not stunt growth. This is a myth propogated by well meaning but uninformed coaches, parents and other adults. There is absolutely no scientific evidence to support this myth, but lots of scientific evidence showing weight lifting to be benificial toward good health of young people. Alternately, popular youth sports like soccer and football have shown consistent injury rates, some injuries being permanent, far beyond what weight lifting will do.

If you're just starting out, go really light on the weights and get your form perfected. Injury only ever comes about from lifting with improper form or with weights that are too heavy. Find an experienced adult, or better yet, a decent certified personal trainer to show you how to lift weights correctly and safely.

All your workouts should be based on compound movements (exercises that utilize more than one joint), primarily bench press, squats, deadlifts, etc.. Free weights are always more effective than machines as machines restrict the body's natural movement. You can use machines as well as isolation exercises to supplement compound lifts. Spend some time developing form before adding weight. Always use a spotter.

For now, you can do full body workouts, both upper and lower body on the same day. Give at least one day (48 hours) or more rest in between. As you progress and start adding some weight, you should consider a split routine where you do upper body one day, lower the next workout day, etc..

Answer 2

It does not stunt your growth providing you have a good well balanced diet. Exercising does require a lot of nutrition, and you need to compensate by having the extra protein and carbs. In fact exercising will help increase bone density, setting you up for better bones as you age.
However the use of steriods can and will reduce overall growth if you are not mature (full grown) when taking them.

Answer 3

lifting weights has nothin to do with your height if any thing it should help you grow