Tips for Success in Sports for Children

Children who cannot get outside enough during the school year, shuttling between school and home, facing a sedentary lifestyle, now have the opportunity to spend considerable time in gardens and parks, and moreover, with guidance from their families, can also dedicate time to sports. Prof. Dr. Tolga Aydoğ, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Specialist at Acıbadem Fulya Hospital and Sports Physician at Acıbadem Sports, says: "We must take our children outdoors, who spend increasingly more time each day on television, computers, internet, play stations and game boys, and ensure they lead as active a lifestyle as possible." Prof. Dr. Tolga Aydoğ emphasizes that children should be given sports, physical activity and exercise habits from an early age, while pointing out that when doing so, these activities should be organized regularly and in a way that brings enjoyment, rather than based on results. Prof. Dr. Tolga Aydoğ explained at what age different sports can be started and outlined eight tips for success in sports, providing important warnings and recommendations.

• Choose a sport that interests your child.
• Do not insist on a sport they do not enjoy.
• Follow them emotionally and physically.
• Help them develop healthy eating habits.
• Set an example by playing sports yourself.
• Do not view sports as a goal.
• Encourage regular sports participation.
• Pay attention to health check-ups.

Which Sport at Which Age?

2–3 Years Old

Since they can perform basic movements such as running, chasing and jumping; running in the garden, walking, dancing, playing in water under supervision, and gymnastics under the guidance of experienced professionals can be chosen.

4–6 Years Old

Dancing, swimming, gymnastics, rope jumping, tag, hopscotch and tricycle riding can be chosen. After age six, children develop the ability to perform safe and controlled movements.

7–10 Years Old

In addition to basic training in sports such as gymnastics, swimming, football, basketball, volleyball, handball, cycling, tennis and swimming, they can start more advanced exercises and sports involving combinations of these.

After 10 Years Old

While continuing the sports they started in previous age groups in a more organized manner, they can begin athletics, wrestling and rowing. A few years later, it is suitable to start more strength-demanding sports such as taekwondo and karate.