ABSTRACT
This chapter will provide information about prepubescent children. We are routinely asked by parents whether it is safe for their children to be exercising and at what intensity. Today, pressure and monetary support from parents hoping their child will become a highly paid superstar can place stress on children to perform at a young age. Currently, there is no apparent underlying physiological factor that would make children less suitable than adults for prolonged, continuous activities. For a more thorough investigation in the major differences in physiological responses between children and adults, see Zwiren (1993). According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “If children enjoy the activity and are asymptomatic, there is no reason to preclude them from training for or participating in such events.”
