Childhood Obesity Awareness Month (September) is a great time to remember: kids don’t just need more exercise—they need joyful, consistent movement. Team sports and school activities give children structure, friends to move with, and a reason to keep showing up. That combination can make a real difference in a child’s weight, confidence, and overall health.
Why sports are powerful for kids’ health
- Built-in activity minutes: Practices and games add up to vigorous movement several times per week—exactly what growing bodies need to maintain a healthy weight.
- Better fitness, stronger bones & hearts: Regular training boosts endurance, strength, coordination, and cardiovascular health.
- Healthy habits & routines: Scheduled practices reduce sedentary time and screen time and reinforce consistent sleep.
- Confidence & resilience: Teamwork, goal-setting, and small wins can improve mood and reduce stress—important for emotional eating patterns.
- Belonging and motivation: Being part of a team keeps kids engaged far longer than “go exercise” ever does.
The role of the pre-participation sports physical
Before a season starts, a sports physical (also called PPE) helps keep kids safe and clears the path to participate:
- Medical history review: Asthma, allergies, concussions, heart or family history, medications.
- Vitals & vision: Height, weight, blood pressure, pulse, basic vision screening.
- Musculoskeletal check: Joints, flexibility, posture, and prior injuries that may need support or rehab.
- Readiness & guidance: If we spot concerns, we’ll share injury-prevention tips, conditioning ideas, and when needed, referrals for further care.
At Aslan Health, we’ve even partnered with local schools (ISD 742) to complete sports physicals for students who otherwise might have missed out—because every child deserves a chance to play.
When to schedule
Ideally, 4–6 weeks before the season so there’s time to address any issues—but if the season is starting now, come in. We’re here to help.
What to bring
- School or league forms (parent portion completed)
- Glasses/contacts if used
- List of medications and prior injuries or surgeries
- Immunization record (if handy)
Affordable, accessible care at Aslan Health
- Same-day pay discount: Standard visits are $75 when paid the same day.
- Sliding scale & charitable care for qualifying uninsured families.
- Medicaid & Medicare accepted.
- Walk-ins welcome with evening and Saturday morning hours to fit busy family schedules.
- Located in St. Cloud, we’re focused on removing barriers so kids can play, grow, and thrive.
Ready to schedule? Book online at aslanclinic.com or call 320-297-6800. Walk-ins are welcome.