Is strength training a good idea for my 5-8th grader?

With the introduction of our 5-7th grade program I though it would be a good idea to bring back up a topic I brought up in the past; is it a good idea to get my child involved in a sports training program?  Here is a link to a position statement by the National Strength and Conditioning Association on Youth Resistance Training that answers that question in the affirmative YouthResistanceTrainingUpdatedPosition2.pdf

  The position statement was published and reviewed by a panel of physical education teachers, strength coaches, and physicians.  It is a long article, but the take home message is that a properly administered youth resistance program is not only safe, but can have some great benefits!  This obviously includes increasing sports performance, but also reducing sports related injuries, improving bone health and body composition, and helping to jump start a healthy liftestyle.  

  Please join us for our 5-7th grade or 8-9th grade programs starting in February!  Choose from any combination of classes offered on Mon./Tue./Thur./Sat. with a class specifically designed for youth girls on Wednesday nights.  Sign-up here https://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ASP/home.asp?studioid=23363