For most parents, hearing their kids say that they are ready to learn tennis, football, ice skating or any kind of sport can’t come too quickly.
With so many children spending too much time indoors glued to their devices and TV screens, recognizing that their kids are mentally ready to be more physically active is one way parents can encourage their youngsters to stay fit and healthy.
Before you sign up your little ones for tennis lessons for kids or other coaching programs, you need to be sure they are fully prepared for everything that comes with being active in sports.
Here are some tips for helping your kids prepare for their first foray into the world of athleticism:
1. Have them undergo a physical checkup
Your little ones will undergo physical training once they make the commitment to excel in their chosen sport. You have to be 100% certain that their bodies will be able to handle rigorous exercises and activities, which will increase along with their age and ability.
You can do this by having your children be checked by their pediatrician first. Your kids may undergo a physical to check if they are fit for what could be a demanding training program. This will also flag any restrictions to ensure they do not overdo their first sessions, an experience which can cause more harm than good.
2. Help them get in shape
Even before your kids start attending a tennis camp or any other sports or coaching programs, help them to be physically fit.
Schedule regular exercise times with your children. Going on frequent walks or cycling with them is a good start to getting their bodies in great shape. On other days, put on some music and do some jump rope or Zumba sessions at home.
You can instruct older kids to keep an exercise log. Give them a notebook and tell them to write down how long they worked out and what activity they did (cardio, running, cycling, etc.). By doing so, they will be able to keep track of the different types of activities they are doing and mix things up so that they won’t get bored.
This is a habit that their coaches may tell them to do so you can start training them to do it early on. Additionally, exercising with your kids is a fun and healthy way to bond with them.
3. Enroll them in a sports camp
Once your children get a feel of what it’s like to be physically active, ask them if they want to join a sports camp.
Your kids will experience a lot of benefits when they sign up for a sports camp. For instance, if they join a tennis camp, they will learn all of the basics about this sport. They will be under the guidance of a professional, seasoned coach who will help them develop the right skills, techniques, and tactics for playing tennis.
By enrolling them in the appropriate sports camp, your children will also undergo regular drill sessions that will allow them to apply the knowledge and skills they learned in real-game situations.
Lastly, at a sports camp, your kids can meet and make new friends who share their interest and passion. They can then form lifetime relationships with other players who can be additional sources of support and inspiration.
4. Get them the right equipment and gear
You will further encourage your kids to be active and excel in their chosen sport by buying them the equipment and gear they need.
As much as possible, buy kit from reputable brands. Quality brands make sure their gear is of good quality and age-appropriate to ensure that they are safe for use. They are also durable and can be utilized for a long time. Good quality equipment will also go a long way in helping them do well in their chosen sport.
Ensure your kids have the right apparel for their chosen sport as well. If they will be playing tennis, buy them the right tops, shorts or skirts that are cool and breathable. Don’t forget to get them a good pair of tennis shoes, too.
5. Make sure they are on a healthy diet
Lastly, a well-balanced diet is crucial to preparing your kids for sports and keeping them fit and healthy as they continue engaging in a more active lifestyle.
Try to serve your little ones nutritious meals and snacks whenever they are at home. Encourage them to choose healthy options as well when buying food from the cafeteria if you do not pack their lunch boxes.
Always remind your kids to stay hydrated at all times, especially when they are practicing or playing. Encourage them to drink water frequently between practices or games. Once they are at home, you can give them something cooler and refreshing such as freshly squeezed orange juice with ice or their favorite fruit smoothie.
It can be pretty exciting to hear your kids telling you they want to start being active in sports. As a parent, your first priority should be to keep them fit and safe as they delve into the world of athletics.
Your next priority should be to help your kids find fun and happiness in their chosen sport. You can do this by encouraging them to take frequent breaks and not pressuring them to the extent that they will be physically and mentally exhausted from playing. It is important that you are always there for them and support all their decisions.
AUTHOR BIO
Possessing more than two decades of experience in the leisure and hospitality industry, Tony Kouris joined Zayed Sports City as General Manager in January 2018. With extensive career experience, a value on interpersonal relationships, and strong negotiating experience, he is positioned to support Zayed Sports City’s strategic growth and continue to innovate the site as an internationally recognised sport and entertainment destination.
