Strength Training for Youth

For years, strength training for young people has been met with scepticism, largely due to persistent myths and misconceptions. Parents and coaches have often worried about potential injuries, stunted growth, or the fear that lifting weights will turn kids into overly muscular ‘mini bodybuilders’.

These myths have since been debunked by modern research, confirming that tailored, age-appropriate programming coupled with supervision and technical proficiency, strength training is not only safe, but also profoundly beneficial.

One of the most common misconceptions is that strength training is solely about increasing muscle size or building a bodybuilder’s physique. While hypertrophy can be a goal in adult training programs, youth-focused strength training focuses on movement literacy and competence in preparation for the demands of specialised training.

The reality is, it is not until a student has passed their pubescent era that the relevant hormonal balance sets the environment to deliver hypertrophic (muscle gain) adaptations. Thus, youth training outcomes sway towards coordination improvements, foundational strength, injury mitigation, and movement competence.

Beyond the physical benefits, strength training offers young people improved self-confidence, exposure to self-discipline, the value of routine, and general education in health and fitness. These contribute significantly to a student’s overall development, empowering them and positively impacting their academic and social activities.

At BGS, our goal is to deliver these benefits through a comprehensive program designed specifically for youth. Sessions run daily during the school term, tailored to different age groups and developmental stages, focusing on movement, strength, and fitness that are appropriate to boys’ unique needs. Our specialised writing programs complement physical training by encouraging healthy habits and goal setting.

We are proud to offer a fully equipped gym space at BGS, meaning boys don’t need to pay for external facilities. This gym operates in a fun, friendly, and supportive environment, where qualified strength and conditioning practitioners provide close supervision to ensure safety and maximise each student’s potential.

Our approach is not just about physical gains — it’s about building a platform for lifelong success that extends well beyond the weight room.

If you have any questions, please contact Nathan Williams, our Head of Strength and Conditioning. You can view the Term 3 Annandale Strength and Conditioning Schedule here.

Rob Cooper
Director of Sport