COMMON MYTHS
Does Jump Training Stunt Growth or Make You Shorter?
No scientific evidence shows strength or plyometric training stunts height. The international consensus says youth training is safe and beneficial.
This is one of the most harmful myths about youth training — because it stops young athletes from doing the safest, most beneficial work available.
What the evidence says
There is no scientific evidence that strength or plyometric training stunts height. Appropriate resistance training actually increases bone density and skeletal health.
Where the myth comes from
Growth-plate injuries do occur — but only from severe acute trauma like high-velocity impacts, not from normal training loads. The international consensus (NSCA, ACSM, IOC) is that supervised youth strength training is safe and beneficial.
What actually affects height
Genetics (70–80%), malnutrition, chronic disease, severe sleep deprivation and hormonal imbalance. Training is not on the list.
Key takeaways
- No evidence links training to stunted growth.
- Growth-plate injuries come from trauma, not normal loading.
- Proper youth training improves bone density and long-term athleticism.
References
- Faigenbaum et al. (2009) J Strength Cond Res
- Lloyd et al. (2014) Br J Sports Med
- ACSM Youth Strength Training Position
Keep reading
TRAINING PROGRESS
How Long Until You See Results From Jump Training?
A realistic vertical jump improvement timeline: what changes at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks, and why starting level, training quality and recovery decide the pace.
TRAINING METHODS
How Many Jump Training Sessions Per Week Do You Actually Need?
Training frequency by experience level, safe plyometric contact volume, and the warning signs that tell you to cut back.
TRAINING PROGRESS
How to Break a Jump Training Plateau
A plateau means the body has adapted to the current stimulus. Diagnose the weak link, change the variables, deload and fix recovery.