Will Squats Stunt Your Growth? The Shocking Truth About Lifting Weights as a Teen
Have you avoided squats because you think they’ll make you shorter?
You’re not alone — for years, people have bought into the myth that lifting heavy weights as a teen will stunt your growth.
But is there any truth to this claim?
Let me shed some light on this controversial topic and ease your mind about hitting the weight room as a youth.
Does it really make sense that bodyweight exercises designed to build muscle and strength could somehow undermine your full genetic height potential?
I know it seems counterintuitive, but for decades doctors and fitness “experts” warned that squats and deadlifts would compress your spine and prevent you from reaching your maximum height.
But have they provided any solid evidence to back this idea up?
The shocking truth is that after decades of questioning this myth, researchers have found no direct link between strength training and stunted growth.
In fact, did you know that squats have been wrongly blamed as the cause when short stature often has more to do with poor nutrition and genetics?
Lifting weights wisely with proper form provides temporary spinal compression that your body easily rebounds from, not permanent damage.
Here are some important facts that bust this myth wide open
- Studies show any spinal shrinkage from heavy lifts is only millimeters — about the size of a sesame seed! — and temporarily, reversing when you relax.
- Weight training has been found to improve bone and muscle strength for a lifetime of better health starting as a teen.
- Stronger muscles and better posture from lifting actually make you appear taller than if you avoided the weight room!
- Olympic lifters may lose only around half a centimeter of height over a decade of intense training — not exactly cause for concern!
So if you want to fuel your growth and reach your maximal height potential, consider incorporating bodyweight exercises like squats into a balanced routine.
As long as you train intelligently with care for form and rest between exercises, you have nothing to fear.
In fact, you have the gift of a stronger, healthier body to look forward to for life.
What are you waiting for?
Join the millions of teens rediscovering the joys and benefits of strength training.
Start squatting today and reach new heights — both inside and out!
Your full genetic potential is waiting.
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