Is Going to the Gym at 18 Years Old Beneficial?
The age of 18 is indeed a pivotal stage in an individual's life, where physical and mental development continue at a rapid pace. Many individuals wonder whether it is beneficial to start their gym routine at this age. In this article, we will explore the advantages and guidelines for gym members at 18, along with addressing common concerns.
Benefits of Starting a Gym Routine at 18
Starting a gym routine at the age of 18 can be incredibly advantageous. This age is ideal as it falls within the range of ‘ideal’ gym age, which starts from the age of 15 according to many fitness experts. Here are some key benefits:
Improved Health: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and boosts overall physical fitness. Enhanced Hormonal Balance: At 18, hormonal balance is at its peak, which is crucial for growth and development. Mental Health: Exercise releases endorphins, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression while promoting better sleep. Discipline and Routine: Starting a gym routine at 18 teaches discipline, time management, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.Is Gym Membership Necessary at 18?
Whether or not you should start a gym membership at 18 depends on your individual circumstances. Here are some considerations:
Career Needs: If you are pursuing a career that requires a specific body type, such as modeling or air stewardess, gym membership can be beneficial. However, if you have this career aim, it's best to start planning and rigorous training earlier. Cost and Priority: Gym memberships can be quite expensive. At 18, you may have extra money, but it's important to prioritize. Saving money for more important expenses like education, travel, or a first car is often recommended until you have a more defined career goal. Home Workouts: If you have access to internet and workout resources, you can easily set up a home routine. There are numerous free workout plans and tutorials available online through platforms like Pinterest, YouTube, and online fitness communities.What Type of Gym Workout is Best for Teens?
Free-hand exercises and basic routines are highly recommended for teens. These include push-ups, pull-ups, dips, running, and core strength building exercises. The reason is that during your teenage years, the body's hormonal secretion is at its peak, leading to rapid growth and increased muscle volume.
Free-hand Exercises: These help build functional strength, essential for day-to-day activities and sports. Running: This improves cardiovascular health and endurance. Core Strength: A strong core helps with overall body stability and performance in various sports and exercises.Heavy weight lifting should be avoided during teenage years as it might hamper growth. I saw firsthand how weightlifting affected a friend's height negatively, while I continued to grow, thanks to activities like cricket, pull-ups, and push-ups.
When Can Teens Start Lifting Weights?
While it's important to avoid harmful weightlifting at a young age, you can consider lifting weights in your late teens. Starting from around 20 years old is generally recommended. At this stage, your body has stabilized, and the hormonal changes are less intense.
Conclusion
While there is no set point in time that determines the 'best' age to start gym exercises, 18 is certainly a good time to begin. It's important to focus on building a solid foundation with calisthenics and free-hand exercises before progressing to heavier weights. Remember, the goal is to maintain a healthy lifestyle that supports your physical and mental well-being in the long run. Consult a fitness professional or a doctor before starting any new exercise routine.