Is it a good idea for a teenager to join a gym?

[JCT666]

I'm 16 years old and I wanna join a gym so that I have something physical to do outside home. However, people keep telling me that lifting heavy weights can cause back damage and keep a teenager from reaching his potential height. I am 5'7 right now. Just wondering if this is true or not?

[maiez]

I work in a gym, I love seeing younger kids start coming so I can help them out. But there are some kids too young (like 13-15) and they lift REALLY badly and have no idea what they are doing. So as long as you join a gym, make sure you talk to people a lot and learn how to do the correct lift, otherwise you will hurt yourself or not gain any muscle/strength. As far as I know you won't stunt your height. So if you want to work out, I think its a great idea and I highly encourage it, but make sure you do your research.

[marksmith108]

Just start light. This is only true for people who are not used to physical activity and don't know things like proper form yet still try to do complex lifts like squats and deadlifts. Start with some cardio. Work ur way into the free weights. Go light and research proper form. If ur confused about anything ask a guy in the free weight section. Everyone starts somewhere, even the big guy was small and he'll respect u for trying and admiring him a source for help.

[Hannah591]

Most gyms will only allow 18 year olds in so you wouldn't be able to do it anyway but I think it should be okay for 16 year olds as long as they get informed on what to do at the gym, they don't overwork it and don't do heavy weights because it could damage the development of their muscles.

[Arianna16]

the gym I go to your allowed from when your 14

[EdensFruit]

It's true. You can go to the gym, but you have to do the appropriate exercise for your age.

[JackKerouac77]

I don't think you have to worry, just look up proper exercises.

Or buy some lower-end free weights and just get your exercise outside, the natural way.

[MakeitOrDieTrying]

Stunting growth is some retarded shit, a myth. Joining the gym at your age would be the best thing you could do

[ihatethiswebsite]

Yes it's a good idea. Just don't lift as much as you can with poor form just to make yourself look stronger. Keep good form and it will be good to go to a gym

[a_lizete]

So don't lift weights but pls join a gym

[whissperrrr]

Is ok but train safe.. be patient