Dec 28, 2011
Here is a great article that describes 1) how scrappy and dedicated weightlifters are to their sport and 2) the general importance of starting early. I’m always happy to see news articles that are able to provide reasonably good descriptions of weightlifting in the context of proper sport training. There has been too much fear mongering about lifting weights (in any way). I hope that with the rise of crossfit, there will be more and more articles like this one that describe the safety and joys of weightlifting for both adults and children/teens.
It’s important to start early for any sport, and weightlifting is no different. Starting with a PVC pipe or broomstick is a great way to get the technique down in a way that is safe for children as well as unskilled adults. I’m not trying to scare anyone out of starting weightlifting later in life, you’ll still find it a thoroughly stimulating (i.e. challenging) experience. Starting at 35 will put in in a good position to become reasonably stronger, more flexible, and one might say more fit; however your chances of winning an olympic medal or even going to an international competition are quite low. Starting children early gives them the potential to perform at the best of their abilities, during peak athletic years.
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