Stunted Growth Concerns / Question
Published: June 5, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I was wondering if lifting weights could stunt your growth. I just turned 15; I'm 6'1 and 220 pounds. I don't look fat, because I play basketball and lift weights regularly. Most of my weight is muscle. Now people say that I am big enough, but I want to get taller and grow to my fullest ability. I work out pretty heavily on a regular basis. I work out every day and do a cardiovascular workout every other day. I'm stronger than most adults, but want to be taller. I've been researching this topic and can never find a straight answer. Help me please!
Signed: Will Lifting Weights And Exercising Stunt My Growth?
Dear Will Lifting Weights And Exercising Stunt My Growth?,
Here is your straight and reliable answer...
No, lifting weights and exercising properly is not going to stunt your growth. You will probably get a little taller, as you are 15 and probably not done growing, yet. However, 6'1 is pretty tall and you may only have an inch or so to go before you stop getting taller. Genetics plays the biggest role in determining your height. Lifting weights will not make you taller, but lifting currently will not hurt you either.
TeenHealthFX is concerned about you because it even sounds like you may be a little too focused on your height. If your height has become a major issue for you, you may want to discuss it with your doctor.
You said that you play basketball and maybe you want to be taller for this, but there is no crystal ball that can predict your exact height. You have already ensured that you are going to maximize your growth to your potential by eating healthy and exercising. Also, TeenHealthFX is assuming that you are not using any type of drugs or nicotine (smoking) that can stunt your growth.
Just a quick word about your exercise routine - good for you. It sounds like you are getting a healthy workout every day. For more general guidelines on working out, see "Best Time To Exercise." Just be careful not to over train. You probably should not lift weights for each muscle group more than twice per week, especially if your workouts are intense.
Keep in mind (when thinking about this height idea), that you can do and be anything you want to be if you put your mind to it. It is not dependent on your height. Teenagers commonly feel unhappy with different areas of their body. This is something that most people have to deal with at different times in their life. It is important to try to be happy with what you have. Focus on your strong points.
For more information on how your height is determined, see "Pro Player."
Signed: TeenHealthFX
Compared with other age groups, teens have the lowest rate of seat belt use, and male high school students are more likely than female students to rarely or never wear seat belts.
