Quote (tommyd323 @ 8 Jul 2014 15:01)
Younger cousin want to start lifting and I don't really want to make him do squats yet but if you guys think it's okay I will.
He's 12 going into 7th grade and will be lifting 2x a week in their p.e. class.
I would recommend getting him started on lights weights and have him do body weight exercises, sprinting, balance, etc. If he progresses well then getting him into compound exercises makes sense. It's not that kids can't lift; it's that they should probably be supervised so that they are working safely.
I started lifting in grade 7 and it helped me a LOT in sports. It was a clear advantage that grew as I got into high school. The only drawback for me was that the bones in my arm curved a little so that they don't fully straighten now (no big deal as my wingspan is still longer than my body). I don't think it stunted my growth, and I never had any injuries.
Some gyms have liability rules and you may need to look into general liability laws for kids; that's the only limitation
e: oh yeah, as a personal trianer I take clients as young as 13 or 14 and I've never had any issues outside of some kids who had to be reminded to focus.
This post was edited by RewtheBrave on Jul 10 2014 12:47pm