Adolescents can safely develop visible abdominal muscles and build muscle through targeted physical training.

noli's read

Science largely validates strength training for adolescents, refuting the common misconception that it stunts growth. A consensus review from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), published by Lloyd et al. (2014) in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, demonstrates that well-supervised strength training is safe and promotes bone and physical health in youth. However, the promise of obtaining visible abdominal muscles solely through local exercises is scientifically overstated. A randomized controlled trial by Ramirez-Campillo et al. (2013) reiterates that spot reduction (losing fat specifically from the stomach) is a myth: the visibility of abdominal muscles depends on overall body fat percentage. In adolescents, targeting a very low body fat percentage for aesthetic reasons can sometimes interfere with the energy required for overall growth, making an emphasis on general strength more relevant.

the sources

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