With the new school year upon us, many students are also getting ready to don their uniforms and sports gear so they can start enjoying a new sports season. Whether kids play sports in school, in a recreational league or on a travel team, being prepared for the season makes it more likely they’ll have fun and will succeed without being sidelined by injury or filled with disappointment.
Here are 5 tips to help your children prepare for a new sports season:
- Get sports season ready. Now is the perfect time to start or expand on a workout plan. Chances are that kids have been physically active during the summer months, but they may not have been doing activities that build strength, flexibility and stamina for the sport they plan to play. If they need a formal exercise program, ask a gym teacher, coach or personal trainer for advice. Have them get in a mix of cardio activities, like running or swimming, in addition to strength training. Encourage them to increase what they’re doing gradually so they don’t overdo it.
- Plan for proper nutrition. As a parent, you always want your kids to be healthy, and proper nutrition is an important component of good health. If the unstructured nature of summer has caused kids to develop less-than-healthy eating habits, now is the perfect time to remind them of the importance of good nutrition. It doesn’t have to be a lecture on eating healthy – rather, talk about how eating or avoiding certain foods will help them be stronger, more energized and better at their sport.
- Make an appointment for a physical. Many sports teams require kids to get a physical before they start playing, but even if one is not required, this is a good time of year for kids to get an annual check-up at the doctor. Some schools and teams also offer sports physicals so you don’t have to bring the kids to their own doctor.
- Check their gear. Unless all equipment will be supplied by the school or team, it’s a good idea to make sure your kids have everything they need to play. Check that all equipment is in good condition, still fits properly and is safe to use. Also ask if any part of the uniform needs to be purchased, such as socks, sneakers or hats, so your child will have what they need on day one.
- Discuss goals and expectations. Some kids can’t wait for a new sports season to start while others may be a bit apprehensive about what to expect. Spend some time talking to kids about how they feel, what they’re most excited about and what concerns them. Set goals and ground rules if necessary, such as not letting sports interfere with school work. Keeping the lines of communication open makes it easier for kids to manage expectations and jump over any hurdles they may face.
Copyright 2024 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.
Date Last Reviewed: June 20, 2024
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD
Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.
No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.
No comments:
Post a Comment