Sex Differences in Resistance Training Participation and Beliefs Among Adolescent Athletes: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Resistance training (RT) is widely recommended for adolescent athletes to enhance performance and reduce injury risk. However, sex differences in RT participation and beliefs during adolescence remain underexplored. Methods: This exploratory cross-sectional study surveyed 108 adolescent athletes (62 females, 46 males; ages 13–18 years) recruited from sports medicine clinics and physical therapy facilities. Participants completed a 29-item questionnaire assessing demographics, sport involvement, and RT participation and beliefs. Items included RT frequency, duration, equipment use, age of initiation, and enjoyment. Statistical comparisons between sexes were conducted using chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent-samples t-tests for continuous variables, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Overall, 73% reported regular RT participation, with a higher but not statistically significant (p < 0.05) proportion of males compared to females (80% vs. 65%, p = 0.07). Females reported beginning RT at a younger age than males (12.1 vs. 13.4 years, p = 0.005). No significant sex differences were found in RT frequency (3.1 vs. 3.5 sessions/week, p = 0.33) or session duration (56.3 vs. 68.8 minutes, p = 0.17). Males more frequently reported use barbells (57% vs. 27%, p = 0.002), weight machines (70% vs. 37%, p = 0.001), and free weights (74% vs. 55%, p = 0.04). Females reported significantly lower enjoyment of RT compared to males (48% vs. 70%, p = 0.02). Conclusions: This study describes sex-based differences in RT participation and beliefs. Future research should prioritize developing and validating questionnaires to more accurately assess RT participation and beliefs and to guide efforts aimed at fostering positive, equitable training opportunities.