Anyone can go play sports with their friends at the park, but you can only compete after you’ve obtained a physical if you’re part of an organized sport at your school. Now, you may be wondering, why most states require physicals for sports. Although it can seem like an annoying obstacle, in actuality, it is one of the best ways to ensure athletes can compete safely.
Athlete Safety
The biggest and most obvious reason states will require physicals before a student can participate in a sport is to preserve their safety. Regular physical examinations ensure that athletes are in optimal health and free from any underlying conditions that could pose a risk during sports activities. During a physical, doctors can identify potential health issues early on, and athletes can take necessary precautions and minimize the chances of injury or complications during a match or game.
For example, a doctor could identify asthma in a player, a disease that can get in the way of play. This medical condition could take the player out of the sport entirely, or they could just make them aware so they can take the necessary measures to play safely, such as having an inhaler on site.
Fitness Level
In addition to safety, physicals can accurately assess a student’s current fitness level. This assessment can help identify physical limitations like flexibility and cardiovascular endurance, allowing coaches to tailor training techniques to what you, as a student-athlete, can do. Coaches want everyone to give it their all, and then they want to target specific areas of weakness so the athletes can push themselves and improve. Coaches can also provide guidance and support to help their athletes reach their full potential and achieve their fitness goals with a deeper understanding of a student’s fitness profile.
Mental Health
A comprehensive physical exam can also offer valuable insights into a student athlete’s mental health. This mental health assessment includes identifying and detecting potential signs of depression or anxiety that may impact their overall performance. Mental health needs vary widely, and by identifying them, the athlete and their coaches can address and take care of those needs. Student-athletes need to thrive both on and off the field and to make that happen, they can’t gloss over the important aspects of their health, like their mental well-being.
Most states require physicals for sports, and while it can seem like an obtrusive hurdle getting in the way of your fun, it’s incredibly important. Before ever getting out on the field in a professional setting, you need to make sure you can do so safely, and at AFC Urgent Care, we can help. Let us help you achieve a quick and accurate school physical on your schedule.
