You probably already know that hitting the gym can improve your health and give you a strong, fit body. But some of you might be concerned about whether gym workouts can make you shorter. In this article, we'll address this question for you!
1. Can hitting the gym make you shorter?
There's a lot of talk about whether 'hitting the gym can make you shorter.' So, can it? It might happen if you're exercising incorrectly or using improper form. Especially if you're lifting weights that are too heavy, it can put a lot of pressure on your cartilage joints, potentially inhibiting their growth. However, this scenario is very rare, so there's no need to worry too much about it.
Additionally, incorrect posture and technique can also affect your spinal alignment and walking posture. Having poor posture can make you appear shorter than your actual height.
Does gym training make you shorter?
On the other hand, gym workouts can also help improve your height by strengthening your skeletal system. However, this also depends on a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, especially during adolescence. Because the skeletal system tends to develop slowly and stop growing around the ages of 18-20.
2. Factors influencing height
Height can depend on various factors such as:
Physical activity is a determining factor for height
3. How to prevent height loss when doing gym workouts?
Now that we know whether gym workouts can cause height loss, how can we prevent it? For those in their adolescence, it's advisable to engage in sports like basketball, volleyball, soccer, cycling, swimming, etc., to promote better bone development. Avoid lifting heavy weights and refrain from trying to keep up with others during workouts.
If you're just starting out at the gym, focus on bodyweight exercises until you've mastered the technique, then transition to weight training and combine it with a balanced diet. Ensure you're getting enough nutrients with a diet rich in protein, calcium, vitamins, and fiber to maximize bone and joint development.
Additionally, aim to sleep before 11 PM and avoid exposure to stimulants like alcohol, beer, and cigarettes, as they directly impact your growth process.
How to prevent height loss during gym workouts?
4. Gym exercises to increase height
Certain gym exercises have a positive impact on height development, promoting strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
4.1. Hanging on a pull-up bar
Hanging on a pull-up bar is a simple exercise suitable for all ages. When you hang on the bar, your spine elongates, increasing the distance between vertebrae. This exercise helps stretch the legs and back, reducing fatigue after a day of sitting.
You can easily find a pull-up bar in gyms, parks, or install one at home. In addition to increasing height, hanging on a pull-up bar also provides numerous health and fitness benefits.
4.2. Roman Chair Leg Raises
This is one of the best exercises for the abs, but how does it relate to height? This exercise strengthens the lower abs, helps adjust the tilt of the pelvis, supports proper spinal alignment, and elongates the spine to help you grow taller.
4.3. Jumping Rope
Jumping rope is an exercise that stretches the body with the focus on the legs. As you jump up and down, your muscles are engaged and stretched, helping you become taller and more toned. Additionally, jumping rope burns a lot of energy, making it extremely effective for burning excess fat.
Jumping rope helps increase height
4.4. Running
Running is a familiar and popular exercise. You probably already know that running is an effective way to lose weight and achieve a healthy body. However, it also stimulates height growth.
Regularly practicing running helps release more growth hormones and build a strong skeletal system, leading to elongated bones.
So, with the information shared above, you can clarify whether gym workouts can make you shorter. If you exercise correctly, with proper technique, at the right age, not only will you not become shorter, but you'll also help your body increase in height and develop comprehensively. Therefore, make sure to thoroughly investigate before believing any misconceptions.
Posted by: Trần Hoài Nam
Keywords: Does gym training make you shorter? How to train at the gym to increase height