During resistance training programs for children, what should progressive overload emphasize?

Progressive overload in resistance training for children emphasizes the gradual increase of stress on the muscles to promote strength and endurance improvements. When focusing on repetitions, it is crucial to strike a balance that encourages children to perform a higher number of reps with good form over time. This approach helps to safely enhance their muscular capabilities without the risks associated with increasing the load too rapidly, which could lead to injury, particularly in younger trainees whose bodies are still developing.

In a training program designed for children, the emphasis may be placed on increasing the number of repetitions within a safe and comfortable range, thereby ensuring that they develop proper technique and confidence in their abilities. This method also aligns with their developmental stage and the physiological adaptations that occur at younger ages, making repetitions a key factor in their training regimen. By fostering their capacity to do more repetitions over time, children can build a strong foundation in resistance training that can be beneficial for their long-term fitness journey.