Why Weight Training is a Game-Changer for Kids and Teens

When you think of kids and teens in the gym, weight training might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But here’s the truth: when done in a safe, structured environment, resistance training is not only appropriate — it’s powerful.

At Sixty7Six, we believe that weight training for young people goes far beyond building physical strength. It's about laying the foundation for a healthy, confident, and resilient future.

1. Teaching Resilience and Confidence

Weight training is one of the best ways to help young people build grit and resilience. They learn to push through challenges, celebrate progress (not perfection), and understand that real strength comes from showing up — even on the hard days.

These lessons translate directly into school, relationships, and life.

2. Shifting the Focus: What Their Bodies Can Do, Not How They Look

We live in a world that constantly tells kids how they should look. The gym is one of the few places where we can flip that script and focus instead on what their bodies are capable of.

They learn to appreciate their strength, coordination, and growth — all things that have nothing to do with appearance and everything to do with self-respect.

3. Building Strong Bones and Healthy Habits for Life

Weight-bearing activity during childhood and adolescence is crucial for developing strong bones. These are the years when bone density is established — and it can’t be “caught up” later in life.

Weight training also sets the stage for lifelong movement habits. Kids who grow up enjoying exercise are far more likely to carry those habits into adulthood.

4. Injury Prevention and Body Awareness

In a supervised, age-appropriate setting, weight training actually reduces the risk of injury. It teaches teens how to move well, use proper form, and understand how their bodies function. This awareness benefits every other sport they play — and helps prevent the common injuries we see from poor movement patterns.

5. Mental Health Benefits

Weight training is known to release endorphins — our feel-good hormones — and reduce stress. For teens dealing with the pressures of school, social life, or hormones, this can be a game-changer. It provides a healthy outlet and a safe space to belong.

But… Is It Safe?

Yes — when properly supervised and tailored to the individual, weight training for kids and teens is absolutely safe. At Sixty7Six, we prioritise form, control, and fun over heavy weights or intensity.