Teenage bodybuilding is a subject surrounded by controversy in mainstream media and in society as a whole and this is due to a misunderstanding of the concept, it’s aims, goals and application. I can’t count how many times I have seen a sensationalist TV program or article on the subject and I am constantly disappointed by the absence of any mention of the positive benefits of bodybuilding for teenagers. I decided to take some time then to write this short article on why teenage bodybuilding is a positive thing and not a negative thing and how teenagers can get the most out of bodybuilding.

It is no secret that I started out in bodybuilding at the age of 16. Times were tough, life was hard and I was out of shape. I needed a change desperately and I needed it fast, so I picked up some dumbbells and started working out. I gained muscle, got myself to a healthy weight, grew in confidence and self-esteem and got my life back on track. I think the psychological benefits of teenage bodybuilding are perhaps the biggest and most important benefits to be gained from it. Bodybuilding teaches and encourages discipline, hard work, commitment, dedication and self-control. It also inspires confidence and happiness in a person and allows people to lead better lives.

The second big key benefit to teenage bodybuilding is the physical effects it has on the body. Many people worry and say that teenagers should avoid bodybuilding, as they are not fully developed. In the teenage years, most people are going through puberty, a time of change and adjustment in the body. There can be a number of physical changes such as big weight gains in a short period of time and growth spurts. It is also true that excessive weight training can be damaging for some one at this point in their life, but when done properly, the physical effects are only positive. Bodybuilding reduces body fat drastically, improves strength, overall physique and promotes a healthy and balanced diet. With such an incredible Obesity crisis in the Western World, an increase in teenage bodybuilding would give some youngsters a significantly greater chance of a healthier lifestyle in their later adult life.

The key to all of this is doing it right. If teenagers take the time to study the process and apply it properly then the positives will always outweigh the negatives. The key things to remember are having a structured, consistent training regieme which you should follow to the letter, a good diet (no skipping on meals) and remembering to take the time to recover and rest! Never over-do it! The biggest guys in the gym all know about the importance of taking a break so make sure you follow their example!

Above all, remember to enjoy bodybuilding, because that is what it is all about. Quality of life. Teenage bodybuilding is an incredibly positive and powerful thing when done properly and treated with respect. Make sure you do both!

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