BWL Launches NEW Level 3 Youth Coaching Qualification to Support Safe, Effective and Inclusive Development for Young People
British Weight Lifting (BWL) has launched a new specialist coaching qualification designed to elevate the standard of youth training across the UK. The Level 3 Certificate in Coaching Youth Weightlifting equips coaches with the skills, knowledge and confidence to support children and adolescents through safe, developmentally appropriate weightlifting.
Position statements relevant to the safety of youth resistance training
Historically, there have been concerns over youth engaging in weight training (inclusive of weightlifting) and associated injury risk.
However, leading position statements advocating the relative safety of youth resistance training have been published by British Weight Lifting (BWL), the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA), British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES), Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology (CSEP). In addition, in 2014 an international position statement was published, which was endorsed by 10 leading authorities from the fields of strength and conditioning, paediatric exercise science, sports science and sports medicine.
Similarly, the need for children to engage in ‘muscle strengthening’ activity 2-3 times per week is currently recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
British Weight Lifting (BWL)
BWL are the national governing body for weightlifting and para powerlifting in the UK. As an NGB, BWL provide education and guidance around weightlifting and strength-oriented activity.
Click here to view the British Weight Lifting Position Statement.
Australian Strength and Conditioning Association (ASCA)
The ASCA is the accrediting body for strength and conditioning coaches in Australia as recognised by the Australian Sports Commission.
British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES)
BASES is a professional body that provides support and guidance for practitioners working in the fields of sport and exercise sciences. They contribute to the scientific basis for exercise recommendations in the UK and help shape policy and decisions.
Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP)
According to their website, the CSEP ‘is a national voluntary organisation composed of professionals interested and involved in the scientific study of exercise physiology, exercise biochemistry, fitness, and health.’
National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA)
The NSCA is a nonprofit association that according to their website, is ‘dedicated to advancing the strength and conditioning and related sport science professions around the world.’
UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA)
The UKSCA is a professional body that provides scientific information, research as well as testing and accreditation in strength and conditioning. They also outline guidelines to the implementation and ethical practices of coaches who work within a strength and conditioning-based role.
Click here to access the UK Strength and Conditioning Association website.