Encouraging children to get involved with a sports team or athletic program fosters a lifetime of healthy habits and improves physical health. However, if kids don’t warm up before they play, they could be unexpectedly sidelined. Whether they’re at the park, a fitness center, or in the backyard, they need to commit to a warm-up routine to prevent injury and improve performance. Here are three reasons to make this step a priority. 

Why Should Kids Warm Up Before Playing Sports?

1. Prevents Overheating

When the body’s temperature isn’t regulated, heat exhaustion or overheating may occur. These issues can manifest under any conditions, but are most common when it’s hot or humid outside or when a child engages in strenuous physical activity. Warming up acclimates the body to the environment, instead of “shocking” it with sudden, rigorous activity. Walking in the park, performing light, dynamic stretches, or doing yoga are all easy ways to elevate blood and muscle temperatures. Upon activating these functions, the body can better handle the stresses of playing sports without the risk of overheating.

2. Improves Flexibility

Adding a warm-up routine to a child’s sports regimen will also improve flexibility. These initial movements loosen tight muscles and alleviate stress on the joints. The result is improved range of motion, which makes a big difference in performance quality. For example, if joints are loose and agile, it’s easier for a child to squat and catch a baseball at the park, jump and make a shot on the basketball court, or move their arms and legs during swim class. Increased flexibility and range of motion also reduce the chances of injury.

3. Boosts Confidence

The healthier and more agile kids are when they’re running around in the park or sports complex, the more confident they’ll feel in their abilities. That’s both a short- and long-term benefit. It encourages them to continue participating in sports, fosters a sense of teamwork and camaraderie with others, and boosts their determination both on and off the field.

Committed to providing children and their families with a safe, fun, and exciting environment, the Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department in Arkansas offers a range of activities for all ages. Your children can take advantage of numerous sports, including basketball, baseball, volleyball, and swimming. There are also many parks to visit and dozens of fitness center classes. Visit the facility online to learn more about their athletic programs, or call (501) 982-4171 to speak to a friendly member of the team today.