Sport is essential in everyone’s life, especially during childhood. Sports contribute to the development of muscles, bones, and joints; improve motor skills, balance, spatial perception, and sportsmanship, which includes knowing how to lose and, above all, how to win. However, many questions arise about when to start playing sports in childhood and, especially, about the type of sport recommended for each child.
Whether your child needs a sports physical evaluation to start playing or you simply want to ensure their health, our team of specialists at Cool Springs Internal Medicine & Pediatrics will be answering all your questions.
Is Your Child Ready for Sports?
Sports are recognized as one of the most important activities for the healthy development of children and adolescents, which will certainly benefit them in adulthood, and should be encouraged routinely. According to the World Health Organization, regular exercise contributes to muscle and bone strengthening, improves cardiovascular capacity, promotes mental well-being, and fosters socialization.
Variety in children’s physical activity is very important for their neurological development, as they learn and develop different motor skills. Furthermore, diversity prepares the body well, preventing injuries and avoiding monotony.
Children don’t need systematic exercise routines like adults who go to the gym. They need to focus more on the fun aspect, that is, exercising while playing.
At first, children want to try all kinds of experiences and discover new things. Over time, they will develop a greater affinity for a particular sport. At this stage, variety is important so that children’s physical activity doesn’t become monotonous and they end up abandoning it. By the time they reach adolescence, they can focus more on a specific activity.
Key Questions and Answers for Parents
Despite these reasons, many parents still have doubts about their children’s participation in sports, especially about which sport would be most suitable for each child. Here are the answers to these types of questions:
Can All Children Participate in Sports?
Yes, provided two basic conditions are met:
- Medical authorization: the pediatrician has performed a complete physical evaluation and considered the child fit and authorized to participate in sports.
- The right sport for the right age: Each sport has a recommended age to begin practicing it. It is important not to rush through the stages.
Can Overweight and Obese Children Participate in Any Type of Sport?
Yes, provided medical authorization is obtained and the appropriate sport is chosen (low-impact exercises will be more beneficial for overweight children).
Can Children with Asthma or a Chronic Illness Participate in Sports?
Yes. As in the previous case, provided medical authorization is obtained and the appropriate sport is chosen for their condition.
👉 Read more: Getting a Sports Physical in Brentwood, TN: What, Who, Why and Where
What Is the Ideal Age to Start Playing Sports?
Each sport, therefore, has a more appropriate starting age, which should be properly adapted to each child’s motor skills and abilities, as well as their physical condition and any specific limitations or aptitudes. That said, let’s look at the average recommended ages to start practicing the most common sports:
- Swimming: 2 years
- Judo: 5 years
- Gymnastics: 4 years
- Soccer, volleyball, basketball, and baseball: 5 years
- Tennis: 7 years
- Ballet: 4 years
- Competitive sports: 7-9 years
Does This Mean that I Can’t Play Soccer with My Child Before They Turn Five?
Of course not. Sports games with children have always been allowed. When parents play with crawling babies, for example, they are engaging them in a form of “sport”. Balls can be part of the toys for children under one year old. The ages mentioned above refer to the introduction to sports with classes taught by physical education teachers, professionals with all the necessary training and knowledge. They plan the essential adjustments to time and intensity of the exercises in each sports activity, according to each age group.
Does Gymnastics Inhibit Children’s Growth?
No. Gymnastics can be practiced by children without compromising their growth. However, it is important to note that supervision by a physical education teacher is essential for several reasons, including injury prevention.
What about Weight Training? Can Children Do It?
No. Weight training is recommended after puberty. For girls, it is recommended after menstruation, and for boys, on average, after age 16. Always with professional guidance, of course.
My Child Hates Sports. Should I Force Them?
Some children don’t like to be very active. But they should be encouraged to be, for obvious health reasons. That’s why, in schools, sports are called “Physical Education.” It’s part of the curriculum. This means that physical activity should be part of the educational process. Physical education is just as important as learning math.
Undoubtedly, there’s a type of sport that’s better suited to each child. It’s up to parents to understand and identify their children’s aptitudes and encourage them to practice sports.
Sports Physical: Essential Information
Before your child begins playing a sport, it is recommended that they undergo a sports physical. Some sports programs may require it before your child can participate. The best way is to ask your child’s doctor to perform a sports physical during a regular appointment.
A sports physical can detect some health problems that could affect your child in certain sports. It is not intended to prevent your child from playing sports. It will provide you, your child’s doctor, and coaches with information to help protect your child.
👉 Read more: Pediatrics Specialist
What to Expect During Your Child’s Exam
During a sports physical, your child’s height and weight will be measured. Their blood pressure will be checked. They may also have an eye exam.
The doctor will listen to your child’s heart and lungs. They will examine and feel certain parts of their body. In boys, tests may be performed to check for hernias or testicular problems. Your child’s joints and muscles will be assessed to determine their strength and flexibility. The doctor will also ask about your child’s medical history.
The doctor will review your child’s immunization record. Your child may receive any necessary vaccines to update it.
The doctor and your child can discuss the equipment your child will need to protect themselves from injuries while playing sports. They can also discuss diet, exercise, and other lifestyle related aspects.
Your Trusted Choice for Sports Physical in Brentwood, TN
Sports physicals are an essential preventive measure to protect the health of young athletes. At Cool Springs Internal Medicine & Pediatrics, our pediatrician and primary care physician ensure the early detection of heart conditions and their appropriate treatment, allowing your young athletes to continue playing sports safely in Brentwood, TN. As they return to activity, having this examination done assures parents that their children can enjoy all the benefits of physical activity while minimizing risks. Contact us or visit our clinic without an appointment to schedule the exam and support your child in starting an active and healthy lifestyle.
