Bodybuilding icon Flex Wheeler turned pro in 1990. However, he began competitive bodybuilding in 1983. After retiring in the early 2000s, Wheeler transitioned to coaching bodybuilders and powerlifters. With nearly four decades of experience, it’s safe to say Wheeler has immense knowledge about working out. The Arnold Classic winner has also suffered a few significant injuries that have taught him even more about working out safely. So when Squat University posted an educational video on youth weightlifting, Wheeler agreed with their statement.

The former IFBB pro began his fitness journey with martial arts. However, he got into bodybuilding after he began weightlifting. The former Mr. Olympia runner-up also began weight training and bodybuilding when he was a teen. Hence, he shared Squat University’s Instagram post to help clear any misconceptions among his 839,000 Instagram followers.

Flex Wheeler highlighted the often misunderstood fact 

Earlier, the four-time Arnold Classic winner shared a Squat University video on his Instagram stories. The video showed a 10-year-old kid performing barbell back squats under the supervision of his coach. “10 years old is NOT ‘too young’ to start lifting weights given proper coaching. Read that twice,” said the text in the video. Squat University also elaborated on the fact in the caption and addressed misconceptions surrounding youth weightlifting.

Many people think kids who get into weightlifting and bodybuilding before 18 don’t grow. “This is NOT something that stunts growth or puts the child at greater risk for bone fractures compared to other common sports/physical activities.” Squat University wrote in the caption. They also wrote about the benefits of lifting weights with the correct technique.

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Wheeler had to undergo multiple shoulder surgeries for injuries he sustained during his bodybuilding career. Hence, Wheeler places utmost importance on exercise safety while training bodybuilders. Andrew Jacked is among his most promising pupils, and he finished eighth at Mr. Olympia 2022. However, you don’t have to be skeptical about the story Wheeler shared.

Squat University backed up their claim

Squat University knew that making a claim also demands credibility. Thus, they included a credible source to back up their claim. Squat University urged its followers to read a peer-reviewed research article, Resistance training among young athletes: safety, efficacy, and injury prevention effects. They wrote that users could find the paper with a google search.

The article summarizes the findings of the research conducted on youth athletes. The article’s abstract says, “Current research indicates that resistance training can be a safe, effective and worthwhile activity.” 

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What’s your take on kids getting into weightlifting before completing puberty? Write your thoughts in the comments.