multiple sports
Dr. Murphy says the benefits of playing multiple sports include improved endurance, balance, and range of motion.
For example, a child can run cross country in the fall before playing baseball in the spring.
“You’re working your legs, and it’s giving your shoulder and elbow ligaments a break,” Dr. Murphy says of this sports combination. “It also allows kids to stay competitive, learn endurance, learn teamwork, and listen to other coaches.”
Or maybe a runner isn’t interested in spring sports but wants to stay in shape. You can achieve this by cross-training, training outside of your sport. Runners can swim and bike.
“You don’t put undue stress on your bones and joints while maintaining your endurance,” says Dr. Murphy.
Important advice
While offering some roadmaps for high school athletes, Dr. Murphy emphasizes that decisions must be made for each child. Some students play sports (volleyball, basketball, softball, etc.) in the fall, winter, and spring. Some people may wait until spring to double up on track and field and baseball.
“If you like two sports, find a way to play two sports. If you like three sports, find a way to play three sports,” suggests Dr. Murphy. “If you only love one sport, try to find an off-season sport that helps with that sport.
“And who knows? Your secondary sport may become your primary sport. It may be your ticket to future play,” Dr. Murphy added.
Other advice: Regardless of your sport, have your training plan developed by a trusted adult, such as a coach or trainer. Don’t rush into that plan and try a heavy bench press in week 1, for example. Please feel free to participate.
If you are injured, tell an adult and seek medical treatment. Don’t play through pain for fear of losing playing time. If you let the injury linger, it can progress to the point where you need surgery, which is not desirable for anyone and will keep you out of the game for longer.
Coaches and parents should encourage their children to explore other sports. And look for signs of physical and mental burnout.
“If you look at their personality and performance, you can see that they’re not giving their all. You’ve seen them compete. They were one type of athlete and then all of a sudden they’re different. “This can lead to serious problems,” says Dr. Murphy. “You might say, ‘Isn’t this too much already?’ Why don’t we just take a break?”
learn more
For more information on how to keep your body in tip-top shape during the sports season, OSF Healthcare Website.