Childrens Fitness and Safety

With spring in the air, our childrens fitness is in focus as they are back outside competing athletically. We must first focus on their overall safety when it comes to sports and fitness.

Take the Necessary Steps to Avoid Unnecessary Injuries

Before signing up for soccer or trying out for the baseball team, American Council on Exercise, recommends taking the following preventive measures to reduce your child's chances of joining the hundreds of thousands who sustain mild to catastrophic sports injuries each year.

Before you start Have your youth athlete undergo a thorough medical examination. Required by many states, this exam should identify any preexisting medical conditions that could be exacerbated by playing sports. If you have questions about your child's overall conditioning or nutritional status, consult with a personal trainer or registered dietitian who specializes in the unique requirements of children.

Got protection? Make sure your athlete has the right protective equipment and that it is in good condition. Helmets, especially, are essential for reducing the incidence of head trauma, particularly in activities such as football, martial arts, bicycling, skate boarding and inline skating.

Focus on the fun Like adults, kids are not immune to overdoing it in the quest to be the best. Competition is a healthy aspect of sports, but the desire to win at all costs can quickly lead to injury and frustration. It may also encourage a child to play through a seemingly minor injury, which can result in more extensive or permanent damage.

Keep plenty of fluids on hand Young ones are more susceptible to heat-related illness than adults than adults are, and their bodies' needs for water often take a back seat to their need to run and play. Caffeine-containing sodas exacerbate this problem by encouraging fluid loss; water and sports drinks are better choices. Visit my Hydration Page for important tips and recommendations regarding proper hydration.

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SBI!