My 15 year old son is a big guy..slightly over weight, but athletic...I want him to start a weight training program at home but don't know the facts about doing it correctly...does anyone have any helpful articles I can read so he can do an effective workout without getting hurt?

I don't have any articles, but am wondering if your son's high school has a strength coach for their athletic program. That might be a place to start.

quote:

Originally posted by Mike17090:
My 15 year old son is a big guy..slightly over weight, but athletic...I want him to start a weight training program at home but don't know the facts about doing it correctly...does anyone have any helpful articles I can read so he can do an effective workout without getting hurt?

I'd start with the basics-bench press, squats, curls, military press, with fairly light weights, every other day off, work towards more weight.

Definetly have him start with light weights. Only let him move to heavier weights when you are sure he can do them with proper form.

Have him stick with exercises that work muscles groups as oppossed to concentrating on single muscles. Working single muscles (like bicep curls, leg curls, leg extensions) is a waste of time. Better to use his time working muscle groups. Squats, bench presses, rows, pushups, chinups, lat pulldowns, and crunches are good.

At least one day off between workouts. A bit of cardio, especially interval training, on the off days will help with overall endurance and stamina. Make sure he has at least one day a week without weight training or cardio training to rest. It's ok for him to do less structured physical activities (such as playing tennis, basketball, etc.) on this day of rest, provided he's not feeling run down.