As the summer is here, the excitement of the upcoming sports seasons is in the air. Travel leagues, summer camps, and training are in full swing. Soon many will be representing their schools in one or more sports.
One primary focus is eligibility which includes meeting the requirements for athletic clearance, such as annual physicals mandated by CIF for high school athletes in California. It is also important to recognize the significance of prioritizing their health and well-being.
This blog will share key tips to help parents and young athletes prepare for the summer sports season while keeping their physical and mental well-being at the forefront.
Prior to Beginning Any Sport, You Should Seek Professional Guidance
Sports activities can result in various injuries and medical conditions. However, a pediatric sports physical exam can help ensure that your child is healthy and fit to participate in sports. During the physical, a healthcare provider can assess your child's medical history, current health status, and any pre-existing conditions affecting their ability to perform in sports.
Why Are Sports Physical Important?
A sports physical examination can identify medical issues that were not previously detected, allowing parents to take required precautions and treatment.
For example, if your child is diagnosed with a heart condition, a doctor can provide the required medical treatment while explaining the restricted physical activities to prevent the condition from aggravating further.
Also, most sports programs, such as soccer, football, baseball, volleyball, basketball, etc., require children to complete sports physicals before participation to ensure they are healthy enough to play.
While following the safety tips, getting a sports physical from a professional is essential to ensure your kids’ physical readiness and detect any health risks.
Tips for High School Athletes on Preparing for Summer Sports Season
- Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is common during hot summer months. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during practices and games. You can also ask them to drink fluids containing electrolytes for quick replenishment.
- Focus on Physical Conditioning
Physical conditioning includes stretches and warm-ups to get ready for the game. It also helps your kids build endurance, strength, and flexibility, essential to prevent injuries. Besides, it promotes healthy growth and development and improves self-confidence.
- Protect Skin from the Sun
The sun's UV rays can cause serious damage to a child's skin, increasing the risk of sunburn, skin aging, etc. So, applying sunscreen every 2-3 hours throughout your game is recommended to ensure you can enjoy all the benefits of summer sports without putting your health at risk. Plus, most people don’t like playing sports with a bad sunburn.
- Have Proper Equipment
Ensure your child has the necessary protective gear for their sports, such as helmets, pads, shin guards, or whatever protective gear is called for in their respective sports. Note that much of the protective gear also needs to meet certain safety requirements called for by the league.
- Watch for Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat-related illnesses, such as overheating, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, are common during summer. So, watch out for the signs of such illnesses in your kids, such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, muscle cramps, and fatigue, and seek medical attention if they experience these symptoms.
- Practice Proper Nutrition
Eating a balanced diet containing protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats can help kids to perform at their best and maintain energy levels throughout their sports activities. It also strengthens bones and muscles, preventing injuries and improving brain function.
- Develop a Training Schedule
A training schedule helps kids develop discipline and a strong work ethic and be consistent in practice. By sticking to a training schedule, kids can achieve their goals and feel confident and empowered on the field, enjoying a fun and successful summer sports season.
- Don’t Over Do
Taking regular breaks helps kids avoid overexertion, fatigue, and injuries while allowing them to rest and recuperate, which helps them maintain their energy levels for longer. Moreover, taking breaks also helps reduce the risk of injuries such as sprains, strains, and fractures, which can significantly affect a child's performance and enthusiasm.
- Wear Proper Footwear
The right footwear is crucial for young athletes to prevent injuries and get proper support. Choosing shoes that fit well, are appropriate for the specific sport, and provide ample cushioning can make a big difference in their performance and experience.
Visit 8-2-8 Urgent Care for Walk-in Pediatric Sports Physicals
At 8-2-8 Urgent Care, we offer sports physicals for kids without appointments. So, you can walk into our clinic with your kids any day between 8 am to 8 pm for high-quality sports physicals. Visit our center for fast, convenient, and reliable medical attention.
You can also contact 8-2-8 Urgent Care, and our staff will walk you through our online check-in from the convenience of your home! Call (760) 216-6253.
