Admittedly I am probably the last person that should be encouraging anyone to stretch as it was something I didn’t do much during my playing days. Looking back I wish that I had so without further ado, Stretching.
Stretching increases performance and decreases injury and teaching your kids the basics at a young age will benefit them in the future.
Reducing injury and increasing performance all sounds great but if you are anything like Kaden and I you get to the sporting event and your kids are off an running. I have seen Kaden’s coaches try a few warm up activities on the sidelines, but typically they are just doing their best to herd all of the boys in and get them settled down.
If you are able, try and get to the game 10-15 minutes early and then have your kids try some of the stretches recommended below.
1. http://www.livestrong.com/article/336098-good-stretches-for-children/
2. http://familyfitness.about.com/od/healthandsafety/f/Kids-Stretching-Flexibility.htm
3. http://familyfitness.about.com/od/kidssports/ss/Kids-Stretching-Exercises.htm
Remember it’s important to warm up and cool down before each activity. Small steps that make a big impact.
Happy Stretching!
by Stacey Atkinson