The old wives tale that weight training stunts growth has no evidence supporting it. Just ask Arnold Schwarzenegger, the seven-time Mr. Olympia winner, who started working out at 15.

Though working out worked for Mr. Olympia-turned-governor, controversy still brews concerning teenagers working out in gyms.

“The problem comes out when an inexperienced weight lifter goes to the gym and uses improper form. This can be a problem with any age group, but the wrong placement of a foot can lead to a serious injury,” certified personal trainer, nutritionist and ex-body builder competitor Ashley Thompson said.

A  study conducted by the New York Times found that from 1990 to 2007, nearly one million Americans ended up in emergency rooms with weight-training injuries, and that annual injuries increased more than 48 percent during that period.

“Accidents always happen in a room filled with heavy objects. With people trying to lift them, it just gets messier,” Thompson said.

Weight room missteps are not strictly for teens. Back in 2009, University of Southern  California tail-back Stafon Johnson was bench pressing when the bar slipped and nearly crushed his throat; he had to undergo  serious surgery. Injuries can be expected at any level of experience, so the ideal situation is to always be careful.

“I always use a spotter, so I don’t end up killing myself in the process of working out,” sophomore Scott Deuce said.

The Palmetto weight room takes many precautions; no one benches without a spotter and the students work out with a friend nearby.

“I can’t express the importance of a spotter. Your spotter in the last few sets should be literally almost holding the bar for you,” Thompson said. “Also, use common sense. Don’t use someone as a spotter for a heavier weight that they themselves can’t lift.”

Despite some of the dangers, safe workouts are encouraged.

“I would encourage students to work out. It’s something they can do for the rest of their lives. Working out builds bone and muscle strength. It is overall beneficial to a student’s health,” Anatomy teacher Cullen Bullock said.

Benefits of working out include the release of endorphins, which are proven to reduce stress and anxiety.

“ I love working out, it’s something that is a great stress reliever and it’s something to look forward to,” senior Stefano Motta said.

Students who are avid gym junkies should practice working out with a spotter, ensure they have good form and avoid distractions when lifting. Doing so can provide a new healthy and active pastime.