At what age can we start sports training for my kid
We get asked this question a lot from parents who want to get their kids started with some sport. Well, the answer depends on the type of sport, really. So, let us see some type of sports with the minimum age for children
Skating
Skating is an excellent sport to develop balance, leg strength, coordination and flexibility. You can start as early as 4 years old. It might be possible to start even a bit more earlier if the child is cooperating with the coach and is following instructions
Racket sports — Badminton, Tennis, Table Tennis
To get started with racket sports, minimum of 5 years is recommended so that the child is able to grasp hand-eye coordination. You might want to get junior rackets which are lighter, shorter and easier to handle. In the case of tennis, it is best to get started with softer balls which are slower in their bounce.
Swimming
While you can start as early as 2 or 3 years old to learn swimming, it is only advisable in a one-on-one coaching scenario. It is best for the parent to be the first coach and to get their child to learn the basics of swimming at a young age. In a group coaching scenario, it is best to get started after the kid is about 5 years old.
Martial arts — Karate, Taekwondo, Self Defence and Yoga
One can start martial arts practice at about 4.5 years old. It is a great way to gain strength, coordination and flexibility.
Football, Cricket, Athletics
Kids can start football, cricket and athletics training from as early as 5 years. Junior training equipment such as balls which are softer and slower is recommended to start with.
Basketball and Volleyball
These sports not only require greater hand-eye coordination, but also require the child to reach a minimum height even to get started with junior nets. It is best to start basketball or volleyball from the age of about 6 to 7 years old
Dance based fitness, Gymnastics, Fun games
Children will enjoy rhythmic movements with music and can start engaging from as early as about 3 years onwards. Simpler steps and movement to emphasize on coordination and balance is best to start with. Fun games encouraging team games and social skills are recommended.
Chess
Chess requires some level of cognitive ability and focus. Kids can start from about 6 years onwards.
Hope the above guidelines help a bit. Of course, each child is different and can be an exception in its own right.
