Children are not miniature adults…

Abstract

This text examines the historical and scientific evolution of the understanding of childhood and adolescence, emphasising that children and youngsters should not be regarded as “miniature adults.” Historically, childhood was poorly differentiated from adulthood, both in artistic representations and in early labour integration, a reality that only began to change significantly in the 20th century with the progressive abolition of child labour and the recognition of developmental specificities. Today, increased scientific knowledge allows a clearer understanding that children and adolescents differ substantially from adults in their physical, physiological, and psychological characteristics, particularly in cardiovascular, metabolic, and behavioural responses to exercise. Despite these differences, children exhibit a high capacity for adaptation and are not limited in their ability to engage in moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, provided it aligns with their natural, playful, and intermittent movement patterns. The text highlights that children typically engage in short, intense bouts of activity interspersed with brief recovery periods, a pattern that should guide the design of exercise programs. Muscular strength training in children is a topic of critical discussion, addressing longstanding myths and misconceptions about heavy loads and excessive muscle hypertrophy. A progressive approach is advocated, predominantly based on bodyweight exercises, light external loads, general and non-specific development, and appropriate supervision. In conclusion, childhood and adolescence represent unique and critical windows of opportunity for enhancing muscular strength, health, and motor competence, requiring a balanced integration of pediatric exercise science with pedagogical strategies that motivate children to be physically active and support their holistic development.