Research has shown that well designed resistance training programs can enhance the strength of prepubescents and adolescents beyond what is normally due to growth and development. Strength gains up to 74% have been reported following eight weeks of progressive, resistance training, although gains of roughly 30 to 50% are typically observed following short term (8 to 20 weeks) resistance training programs in young adults.

The potential for resistance training to enhance sports performance in young athletes seems reasonable because many sports in which young athletes participate have a significant strength and power component. Moreover, if stretching exercises are part of the resistance training program, flexibility has been shown to improve significantly. Direct and indirect evidence suggests that a sport-specific youth resistance training program does not have a negative effect on sport performance and, in all likelihood, results in some degree of improvement.

Comments from parents whose children have participated in a resistance training program suggest that resistance training enhances athletic ability.