Paediatric dynapenia, a condition characterised by reduced muscle strength in children, is becoming an increasingly concerning issue. Unlike sarcopenia in older adults, paediatric dynapenia is entirely preventable and treatable. Yet, due to declining physical activity levels and poor strength conditioning, today’s youth are more at risk than ever before.
What is Pediatric Dynapenia?
Paediatric dynapenia refers to a “poverty of strength” in children, not caused by any neurological or muscular disease but by a lack of adequate physical activity and resistance training (Faigenbaum et al., 2018). This condition can severely limit a child’s ability to perform basic physical tasks like running, jumping, or throwing, increasing the risk of injuries during sports and daily activities.
How Can We Combat It?
The most effective way to combat paediatric dynapenia is through structured resistance training programs that are age-appropriate and supervised by qualified professionals. Such programs can help children develop the necessary strength to engage in physical activities safely and confidently, reducing the long-term risks associated with this condition (Faigenbaum & Bruno, 2017).
Conclusion
Addressing paediatric dynapenia early is critical for ensuring that children grow up strong, healthy, and capable. By incorporating resistance training into their routines, we can help our kids avoid the long-term consequences of this increasingly common issue.
References
- Faigenbaum, A. D., Rebullido, T. R., & MacDonald, J. P. (2018). Paediatric inactivity triad: a risky PIT. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 17(2), 45-47.
- Faigenbaum, A. D., & Bruno, L. E. (2017). A fundamental approach for treating paediatric dynapenia in kids. ACSM’s Health & Fitness Journal, 21(4), 18-24.