One of the biggest myths about weight lifting is that it stunts your growth. No studies have ever been shown that lifting weights stunts or inhibits growth. But, as with any exercise program, if you do too much too soon, physical problems can occur no matter how old the person doing the exercise is.

Is it bad to lift weights at 14?

“Growing children should not lift weights with the goal of lifting as much as they can. It's safer for them to start with lighter weights and do many repetitions of an exercise.” ... Studies have suggested that weight training might harm a child's growth, lead to injuries or not increase muscle strength.

Is it bad to lift weights at 16?

Maximal lifts before reaching physical maturity (usually around 16 years) are still not recommended. The focus during childhood and early adolescence should be on developing movement skills and building strength endurance (the ability for muscles to work repeatedly).