Teenage son -what age to start

[bfoley]

Hello. My son is 14 years old and is 5'11" @ 155 lbs. He broke his collar bone recently and the ortho recommended that he start weight training to put on some mass. I was wondering if Starting Strength is an appropriate routine for someone his age ? Thanks.

Brian

[Mark Rippetoe]

Yes it is. It is appropriate for any age kid that can accept coaching and be disciplined with a program.

[bfoley]

Thanks Mark. As soon as the ortho gives him clearance, I'm going to have him start training.

Brian

[Mark Rippetoe]

And if the ortho doesn't give him clearance? Like what will happen if you tell the ortho he'll be doing squats? This is like asking your plumber if it's okay to take your showers at 3am.

[bfoley]

And if the ortho doesn't give him clearance? Like what will happen if you tell the ortho he'll be doing squats? This is like asking your plumber if it's okay to take your showers at 3am.

What I meant was as soon as the ortho gives him clearance to resume physical activity, not clearance to lift.