Participating in high school sports can be a transformative experience—building confidence, teaching discipline, and creating lifelong friendships. But before a student-athlete takes the field, court, or track, there’s one important step to complete: the sports physical.
What Is a Sports Physical?
A sports physical, also known as a pre-participation physical examination (PPE), is a health checkup required by schools to ensure that a student is healthy and physically ready to participate in athletic activities. It helps identify any health issues that might limit participation or require additional care during sports.
What Age Are Sports Physicals Required?
In Minnesota and most states, sports physicals are typically required starting in 7th grade and continue through high school for all students participating in school-sponsored athletics.
At Aslan Health, we generally recommend that students ages 12 and older receive a sports physical if they plan to participate in middle or high school sports.
How Often Are They Needed?
The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) requires that students have a sports physical on file every three years. However, some school districts or athletic programs may require more frequent checkups. If a student has had a significant change in health, an updated exam may be necessary before being cleared to play.
We recommend parents check with their specific school to confirm requirements each season.
Why Are Sports Physicals Important?
A sports physical isn’t just about checking a box—it’s a safeguard for your child’s health. Here’s what makes it essential:
- Health Screening: The provider evaluates the student’s overall health, including heart, lungs, vision, and musculoskeletal system.
- Injury Prevention: The exam helps identify risk factors or previous injuries that may need follow-up.
- Chronic Condition Management: For students with asthma, diabetes, or other conditions, the physical provides an opportunity to review management plans.
- Clearance for Play: Students must be officially cleared by a healthcare provider to participate in sports safely.
What to Expect at Your Sports Physical
At Aslan Health, our sports physicals include:
- Review of medical history
- Height, weight, blood pressure, and vision check
- Heart and lung exam
- Musculoskeletal assessment (joints, strength, flexibility)
- Discussion of any health concerns or injuries
We also take the time to educate families and provide support for any follow-up care that may be needed.
Schedule Your Child’s Sports Physical
Sports seasons sneak up fast! Don’t wait until the last minute. At Aslan Health, we offer affordable sports physicals for students—especially those without insurance or easy access to care. We also partner with local school districts to bring physicals directly to students who might otherwise miss out on the opportunity to play.
Appointments can be booked online, or students can walk in during clinic hours. Learn more at www.aslanclinic.com or call 320-297-6800.