What If Weightlifting Was A Subject In School?

 

Every Parent’s Nightmare! Let's start off today's discussion by busting this myth that is so classic even Beethoven gives a side eye. The age-old myth that lifting weights as a kid can stunt your growth, in terms of your height. This is false, and has been proven wrong through countless research, going as far as to say that weightlifting when compared to other sports actually shows one of the least risks of causing such an event.

The exact origin of this myth is subject to opinion, but the factual basis of this myth is that weight-lifting can damage the epiphyseal plate in the long bones. This is also referred to as the “Growth Plates.” If traumatic damage occurs to a Growth Plate, all growth could stop. This damage has occurred in many sports: gymnastics, football, track & field, soccer, running, basketball, volleyball, martial arts, and almost every other sport…except…weight-lifting! (Source: https://www.ifpa-fitness.com/blog/Too-Young-To-Lift)

Now back to the topic! Imagine a world where P.E/P.T transforms into something more, something that can lead to the extinction of bullying. Maybe that's a bit far-fetched, but it would definitely even the odds for kids. If weightlifting became a part of the curriculum there would actually be major benefits to not only the students physical health, but their mental, emotional and academic areas as well.

Students would be introduced to weightlifting fundamentals, an actual class where you are taught what to do and what not to do, unlike being explained things by trainers who, until paid a hefty price, would not care to share details and methods regarding the safety precautions you need to keep in mind. Students would learn basic, and important movements that would not only lead to increase in strength, but also basic things like posture and discipline. It is a fun activity that many students would not treat as a subject but an extracurricular. It gives place to children and teens who never really got into other sports, giving them a chance to explore something that feels really different.

The mere fact is, introducing weightlifting to the youth might even alter the career paths of many, as we see nowadays the success that is brought when fitness personalities started off studying the craft, practicing it and truly understanding it at an age where they could pursue it as a career. Many students might want to go into sports and health sciences just based off of the world of weightlifting.

The impact this subject can have on the boost in confidence and self esteem of students is essential, as they see themselves grow and get stronger with every passing week. Their academic performance will also see an improvement, as this practice would reduce the chances of academic burnout, decrease stress and take students' minds off of academics, and focus it towards themselves instead.

There will no doubt need to be extra caution on the performances of every student, as everyone will display a different amount of ability and strength in this course. That is why every student should also be graded according to their own performance and progress, not required to meet a standard but only to do better than before. 

Imagine if teachers hesitate before scolding a few certain students who made a little too much progress in weight lifting class. Only kidding, but I would like to share an amazing example of a recent kid I discovered, who has completely changed the game of lifting in my eyes for teens like him. Please check out the journey of this 15 year old teen named Athylifts (https://www.instagram.com/athylifts?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) 

He not only started early, but is only getting better and better. As his height grows, his physique evolves too, and I have no doubt he will attain an unbelievable physique by the time he is an adult. He is just a few of the examples of the great kids who had great parents, letting their kids get into the world of weightlifting. I encourage you all to do the same for your kids as well, the progress and growth can be a wonderful thing to bond over.