Children in Gyms – what is safe?

As you all know the media keeps telling us that as a nation both adults and children need to increase their physical activity levels.  There is a lot of conflicting advice as to what is safe for a child to do in gyms.  Lets not take away from our wonderful extra curricular activities offered in New Zealand.  Gyms can suit some children’s motivations – Fitness NZ has now put out guidelines for Children in Exercise Facilities.

There are many diligent parents who want what is best for their child – it is important that children also have free play time that is valuable to their development.  If your child takes an interest in a gym – here are some guidelines:

6-8years:

No weight training machines.  No free weights with the intent to increase the load and no cardio -vasuclar machines of an adult design.   Activities that include the basic fundamental movement patterns such as running, jumping, throwing, passing, catching, agility, balance, rotation and climbing.

9-12 years

This age group needs cardiovascular and coordination based activities.  Body weight and strength training with medicine balls and balance boards is ideal.  You can include some strength training with light free weights that involves multi-joint activities and use of major muscle groups with the emphasis on technique not load. No weight training machines and no cardiovascular machines of adult design.

13-16 years

Body weight and strength training equipment with medicine balls and balance boards is ideal.  Depending on the individuals size they can use equipment of an adult design as long as the equipment size is suitable for the individual.  They can progressively increase loads when the technique is mastered.  No weight training machines designed for adults and no cardiovascular machines of an adult design if they are too large or complex.

In addition to chronological age, the following factors should also be taken into account when

determining appropriate activities:

• height

• weight/size

• prior experience / current physical activity level

• physical development age

• readiness and motivational state of the child

If in doubt please ask for a second opinion at your exercise facility and make sure that you are talking to someone who has appropriate qualifications ie a gym instructor or personal trainer.

Peak Fitness and Health have qualified, professional staff who are there to help.  www.peakfitnessandhealth.co.nz