There are many benefits to playing sports as a child, but what sports should they play?
Everyone needs to participate in physical activities, especially kids. In fact, the CDC recommends that kids aged six to seventeen get at least one hour of moderate-to-vigorous exercise every single day.
For young ones looking for the best in athletics, check out this comprehensive guide of five great sports for kids to play growing up.
Read on to learn more.
1. Swimming
One of the best sports for children is swimming. This low-impact activity is a great way to get your child’s heart rate up, while still protecting their growing body. Swimming builds muscle strength, aerobic fitness, and endurance.
Swimming has the unique duality of being both a team and individual sport. Your child can work with teammates in some events, like relays, and also challenge their personal best.
Some of the most exciting races in swimming include:
- Freestyle
- Backstroke
- Breastroke
- Butterfly
Most swimming distances include 50m, 100m, 200m, 400m, and 800m. As your child gets older, longer distances may get added.
2. Judo
Judo is one of the best sports for young ones looking to stay active. This martial art sport challenges two combatants to better their opponent by using each other’s force against one another.
As your child progresses through Judo, they are awarded belts to denote their level of expertise. The belt classes go as follows:
- White
- Red
- Yellow
- Orange
- Green
- Blue
- Brown
- Black
This is an excellent sport for kids looking for discipline and a focused energy outlet.
3. Basketball
One of the best sports for boys and sports for girls and basketball. Basketball is a team-based game and will encourage your child to work with others around them. Founded in the United States, this all-American game is a must-try for all.
Remember to get your child comfortable shoes that also protect their feet and prevent foot and ankle injuries while on the court. Basketball is a high impact activity and requires lots of running and jumping on a hard surface.
Check out this online store for all the best sports equipment!
4. Gymnastics
For those looking for the more unique benefits of playing sports, try gymnastics. Gymnastics is both an individual and team sport. It is a very physically diverse sport and has several artistic events:
- Vault
- Uneven bars
- Balance beam
- Floor exercise
This sport is a great choice for those looking to combine theatrics with a high level of physicality.
5. Tennis
One of the best sports to play alongside your child is the game of tennis. Tennis works to increase your aerobic strength, lower body fat, and improve strength and muscle tone.
It is a low-impact activity perfect for all ages!
Great Sports for Kids to Play Growing Up
Growing up can be challenging. Encourage your little ones to play sports for kids to increase confidence, inspire teamwork, and encourage a stronger work ethic.
What are you waiting for? Your child’s love for sports awaits!
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