Benefits, risks and possibilities of strength training in school Physical Education: a brief review

Background: Strength training (ST) uses different training methods, such as free weights, body weight, elastic bands or machines to generate resistance force. There is evidence of the ST benefits, however, many professionals have resistance about the applicability of this type of training for children and adolescents, especially at schools. Purpose: To describe the possible risks, benefits and pedagogical possibilities of ST in school Physical Education. Methods: The search was carried out in the databases PubMed, SciELO, Web of Science and Scholar Google, using followed terms: (i) strength/endurance training, (ii) risks, benefits, (iii) children/adolescents and (iv) physical education. Studies published in the last twenty years in English, Spanish and Portuguese were included. Results: There is no evidence to support the hypothesis that ST promotes a growth deficit or a higher injure risk. The ST benefits for this population are extensive, such as an increase in muscular fitness and bone mass, production of IGF-1 growth factor, regulation of body fat, cardiovascular and lipid profile, increase in motor development or sports performance. Physical Education teachers can include ST for students from the age of 6 years and older, through training strategies with their own body weight and simple equipment (e.g., balls and ropes). The focus of ST for prepubertal children should be neuromuscular, that is, in the quality of the movements’ execution. Conclusion: ST is positive for children and adolescents development and evidence indicates many benefits. It is recommended that it be included in Physical Education classes through pedagogical activities and adapted strategies.