Newswise — It's that time of year again—basketball, baseball, softball, soccer and minivans filled with little leaguers as far as the eye can see. But parents can be more than just spectators and chauffeurs this year.
Brant Danley, N.S.C.A., certified strength and conditioning specialist and state licensed athletic trainer with the Baylor Tom Landry Fitness Center, says that it's important for parents to know how to properly prepare their young athletes for this season's competition. Follow these tips, to help your little champions be the best they can be.
- Schedule a physical. "It's important for parents to make sure their children are in good physical condition before participating in any sports. Make sure they don't have any allergies or pre-existing conditions that could be worsened during the season," says Danley.
- Begin pre-season practices. "Depending on the age of the child, it might be a good idea to make a few trips to the baseball park, soccer field or gymnasium to help them get back in to the routine of the sport," says Danley.
- Begin a pre-season workout. "Help them develop an exercise routine or go jogging with them, but make sure to teach them to stretch before and afterwards. Stretching can help reduce muscle pulls, tears or other serious injuries." Danley also says that running drills such as sprints and agility techniques can help them improve speed and develop foot work and quick direction change.
- Make the exercises fun. "It's important not to put too much pressure on young athletes so make the exercise drills fun by turning them into a game or participating in them yourself. Every parent knows that kids are more likely to do something if they don't think they're being made to do it," adds Danley.
- Take sports drinks or water to practices/games. "Teach your child that sports drinks and water are important before, during and after participation in any athletic activity. These types of drinks help to replace their lost electrolytes. Sodas and other drinks high in sugar aren't a good idea so save those for a post-game celebration!"
- Practice good nutrition. "Stay away from serving salty, fatty or sugar-rich foods. Instead, prepare meals that are high in protein and carbohydrates such as chicken, whole wheat breads, fruit, peanut butter, pastas and pancakes. However, young athletes need good snacks between meals to help them keep up their energy level. Going more than three hours without re-fueling is too long for most children."
For more information about the Baylor Tom Landry Fitness Center, call 1-800-4BAYLOrR or visit http://www.BaylorHealth.com.
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