We aim to help young athletes stay safe, healthy, and ready to play youth sports and school sports. If your child is gearing up for a school sport, chances are you’ve already heard about the requirement for an annual sports physical. But what exactly is a sports physical, and why is it important?
At Primary Care Partners of South Bend, we’re here to make sure your child is healthy, safe, and cleared to participate in the activities they love. Here’s what you need to know.
Who Needs a Sports Physical?
In Indiana, all student-athletes in grades 6 through 12 are required to have a completed sports physical form before participating in school sports. Some elementary-age leagues and camps may also require one.
It’s recommended that children and teens ages 6–18 who play organized sports get an annual physical — even if their school or league doesn’t require it.
If you’re a Primary Care Partners patient and have already had a Well Child Check visit within the calendar year, then you may not need to get a physical. Call our office beforehand to find out.
What’s Included in a Sports Physical?
A sports physical (also called a pre-participation physical exam or PPE) is a chance to make sure your child is healthy enough to safely join physical activities. At Primary Care Partners, your child’s sports physical will include:
• Medical history review: We’ll ask about past illnesses, hospitalizations, medications, allergies, and family history of heart conditions or sudden cardiac arrest.
• Height and weight check
• Blood pressure and pulse monitoring
• Vision screening
• Musculoskeletal exam: We’ll check joints, flexibility, strength, and posture.
• Heart and lung evaluation
• General physical exam to assess overall health
• Discussion of sports safety, nutrition, and injury prevention
If your child has a chronic condition like asthma, diabetes, or ADHD, we’ll also check that it’s being well-managed for sports activity.
Why Sports Physicals Matter
Sports physicals help detect any health concerns early and give parents and coaches peace of mind. They also:
• Prevent avoidable injuries
• Identify conditions that may need monitoring during physical activity
• Update immunizations (if due)
• Offer a chance to talk about healthy habits
Even if your child looks and feels healthy, a sports physical helps ensure their body is ready for the demands of training and competition.
Schedule Early to Avoid Delays
Most schools require completed physical forms before tryouts, practices, or the first game. Appointments can fill up quickly — especially in late summer — so we recommend scheduling your sports physical at least 6–8 weeks before the season begins. Primary Care Partners of South Bend makes sports physicals easy, quick, and thorough. If you’re a Primary Care Partners patient and have already had a Well Child Check visit within the calendar year, then you may not need to get a physical. Call our office beforehand to find out. Call us today at 574-251-1200 or schedule your child’s sports physical online (established patients only).
