Nov 9, 2017 3 min read

Q.When will I get taller? My brothers were all taller and better built at my age. My dad said I can’t lift yet. He said I need to stick to sports. I play basketball and run track. He said my muscles aren’t ready for me to lift. Is that true?

11-year-old

Mary Jo’s response: I’m so glad you asked your questions. I’m especially pleased you’re talking with your dad about growing up.

Puberty is a time in everyone’s life when the body grows into adulthood. Physical changes are very individual. Genetics – what we inherit from our parents – is different for each of us. Our physical growth even differs from our siblings’ changes during puberty.

I hear your frustration. Accepting body traits like height can be challenging, especially when we’d like to be taller or shorter. Your body is perfect for you; I realize it takes time to understand your uniqueness. You are also 11. Most young men do not reach their peak of physical height or strength until much later than your age. Give your body time. You’ll get there.

Emotional changes in puberty are normal, as well. You may feel grown up one minute, and like a child the next. You may feel angry, happy, sad, disappointed or moody. All these emotions are OK. Connecting with your dad as you grow from boy to man will help you figure things out.

I researched lifting weights and discovered the American Academy of Pediatrics addresses the subject at https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/fitness/Pages/Weight-Training-and-Lifting.aspx. They recommend adults base the decision about starting strength training on each child’s individual growth. They list the following issues as factors for when a young person can begin lifting weights:

• Age
• Level of development
• Reason for interest
• Level of sports skill already achieved
• Risk of injury
• Availability of equipment and adequate supervision
• Reality of gaining strength (and size)
• How strength training works in a young body

Encouraging your body’s growth for health reasons is different from trying to bulk up and make your muscles stand out. It sounds as if your sports experiences are good ones. The next time you see your pediatrician for a well-child checkup, please discuss your wishes. Continue sharing your feelings with your dad. Be patient. Your body will grow just as it should for you.

Have a question? Send it to Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski’s email podmj@healthyteens.com.