Too young to enroll in a gym?
Dear Doc, my 13-year old son just started playing badminton and wants to enroll in a gym. Is he too young to go?
Fely C., housewife, 48 yrs old
A gym program to supplement badminton training, even at an early age, will surely produce positive results. I’ve put athletes on a weights program as early as 12 years of age. Follow these guidelines: 1) warm up and stretch properly, 2) concentrate on high repetitions and low weights with good form, 3) include a serious cardio program, 4) do not work out in the gym on badminton days, 5) eat right and hydrate well (go see a sports nutritionist), 6) always have adequate rest and 7) the trainer, nutritionist and parents should coordinate frequently with a sports doctor.
Two other things. Do not worry; resistance training will not stunt his growth. Also, if he does not enjoy doing it, do not force him.
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