〇What is the physical foundation needed for an all-rounder?

"I don't know what sports I should get my child to play." This is a question I often hear.
There are many options, such as soccer, swimming, gymnastics, and baseball, and they are all appealing. However, what is truly important is not "which sport you choose," but "what kind of physical foundation you want to develop."
This column is aimed at parents who are struggling to choose a sport, and introduces ideas for developing a child's body and mind in a balanced way, as well as how to raise a child to be a "versatile" individual who can excel in any sport.

〇Why it's better not to narrow yourself down to one thing too early

Recent research has pointed out that "premature specialization" in childhood can lead to increased injuries and burnout.
On the other hand, some sports require early acquisition of the basics, depending on the characteristics of the sport. For example, sports such as gymnastics, swimming, and skating, where the peak of skill is reached relatively early, may require continuous practice from an early age.
However, this does not mean that "early specialization = good." By incorporating basic physical play and diverse movements into specialized training, you can prevent injuries and build a foundation for enjoying the sport for a long time.

〇Why versatile children thrive

Childhood is the golden age for the development of the nervous system.
During this period, children will experience a variety of movements such as running, jumping, throwing, and balancing, which will improve coordination between the brain and body and help them acquire the "basic athletic skills" that are common to all sports.

While experiencing a variety of sports is very beneficial, it is also true that some children lose confidence because they feel they cannot do as well as others.
The important thing is not to be able to do everything, but to have fun while experiencing it. It is natural that there will be some movements that you are good at and some that you are not good at.
Respecting a child's pace and allowing them to have a variety of experiences without forcing them will lay the foundation for greatly expanding their potential.

〇The childhood of famous athletes...

Rui Hachimura, who is currently active in the NBA, did not focus solely on basketball during his childhood.
As an elementary school student, he played catcher and number four batter in baseball, and also won the prefectural championship in track and field (sprinting).
Diverse movements such as throwing, hitting, and running formed the foundation for his current power and speed.

Examples of sports that improve athletic ability

Examples of sports that can help develop all-around abilities include track and field and soccer for running ability, gymnastics and basketball for jumping ability, baseball and dodgeball for throwing ability, gymnastics and dance for balance and flexibility, and all ball games for spatial awareness.
Simply incorporating different exercises into each season will help you develop a well-balanced, mobile body.

Summary: Choosing a sport is a means

Sports are a way to broaden a child's horizons.
By allowing children to experience a variety of movements without rushing, they can find a sport that makes them think, "I want to do this."
All-round development means developing flexible bodies and minds that can adapt to any environment.
The greatest support parents can provide is to help their children prepare to make choices.

Author
Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic Physical Therapist Tomonori Ishizuka
Supervision
Dr. Yasushi Sera, Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic
Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic