Weight Training for Softball Players

Any ideas on when/if to start weight training for female athletes? I have asked quite a few people about this and most have given the same answer...use only body weight during high school. This means push-ups, pull ups...etc. No doubt they will be on some type of weight training when they get to college. I have also been told to wait until they are fully grown physically. Some girls are as tall as they are going to get in the 7th grade...others may grow through high school.

 

Do You Know Why ???

Because the growth plates in their bodies are still developing ,and heavy weights can damage the bodies structure at an early age.....if you must use weights, use light weights, and do reps, this is much better for the structure of the body or muscle strength.....remember these are GIRLS...they don't have a lot of testosterone ( muscle building hormone) running through their bodies...unless they are using steroids---LOL

--------- Fastpitch Softball Player----NOT !!!

 

Start light weights, many reps as a HS freshman

We do work the kids with lighter weights, more reps starting around Nov 1 each year. Dumbell curls, tricep pushdowns, light bench press, squats, leg raises, etc...basic excercises are acceptable around 13 or 14 years old.

special excercises for pitchers also.

 

May be as tall

May be as tall as they will get by 7th, but physically their muscles are still growing and strengthing! I agree use LIGHT weights with reps! Talk to a professional pitching coach about what pitchers should do and not do! You must be careful of pitchers, they can hurt their arm, wrist, legs, knees, ankles or back and not be able to pitch! And agree, big time, with Guru, these are GIRLS not women, boys or men! There is such a thing as toooo much! Tread lightly and be safe!