As our little athletes prepare to hit the field, court, or track, there’s one important step that often gets overlooked in the hustle and excitement of a new sports season—the sports physical. Also known as a pre-participation physical exam (PPE), this check-up is more than just a box to tick on your child’s school or team requirements. It’s a smart way to ensure they are healthy, strong, and ready to play.
Whether your kid is trying out for their first soccer team or coming back for another season, a sports physical is essential, not optional. At CMCFresno, we offer quick, affordable sports physicals for kids and teens—because their safety is our top priority, and your peace of mind matters.
Gear Your Kid Up for the Season
If you’re planning to book a sports physical for your child, it’s natural to wonder what exactly happens during the visit. You can expect to go through the following steps:
This part is all about getting to know your child’s health background. The pediatrician will ask about:
Next, your child will undergo a full checkup that includes:
While the whole body gets attention, there are a few areas the pediatrician will pay extra close attention to:
Sports physical exams are more than just a school requirement. They help catch health issues early and ensure your young athlete is physically safe and ready to play. Think of sports physicals as a pre-season safety huddle, helping your child (and their teammates) step onto the field with confidence and peace of mind.
Even if your child appears perfectly healthy, certain conditions can go unnoticed without a thorough examination. Sports physicals help detect issues that might not show symptoms right away, such as:
If any of these come up during the exam, your child’s primary care provider can offer safe, practical solutions so your young athlete can play healthily and comfortably.
Another benefit of sports physicals is establishing a health baseline. If your child gets injured or experiences changes in their health later in the season, the initial visit gives your provider a solid reference point. It helps track recovery progress and supports better decision-making if issues arise.
Don’t wait until the season is in full swing. Make sure to schedule sports physicals early to give your child time to gear up safely without the last-minute rush.
Here’s a quick guide to help you plan:
Schedule Early
Know How Often to Schedule
Easily Schedule at CMCFresno
You may think, “If my child already had a routine wellness visit, do they still need a school sports physical?” Great question! While both visits are important for your child’s health, they serve different purposes.
A physical exam for sports focuses on whether your child is fit to participate in physically demanding games or activities. It usually includes:
Think of it as your child’s “all-clear” pass to join practice sessions and games safely.
A well-child visit is more comprehensive and should happen annually. It focuses on your child’s overall growth, development, and long-term health. During this visit, the pediatrician:
It’s a full-picture look at how your child is doing as they grow.
Both visits serve a unique and valuable role in your child’s health. For your convenience, at CMCFresno, we can combine both in one convenient appointment, saving you time while giving your child the comprehensive care they need.
We know life can get busy, especially when you’re juggling school, sports, and family schedules. That’s why CMCFresno keeps sports physicals simple and stress-free for kids and parents.
From our flexible scheduling system to our caring pediatric team, we’re here to make sure your young athlete gets the care they need.
At CMCFresno, you’ll enjoy:
No need to wait weeks or plan far ahead. You can stop by for a walk-in or call to schedule your child’s sports physical today for same-day scheduling—whatever works best for your routine.
Our team knows how to work with children and teens, especially active ones! We take time to listen, explain what’s happening, and make each visit comfortable.
We are proud to say that we have friendly, Spanish-speaking staff members to ensure every family feels heard and understood. Clear communication builds trust and helps us deliver the best care possible.
Keeping your young athlete healthy isn’t just about game day. It starts with making sure they’re ready to play safely. A sports physical checks for underlying health issues, past injuries, and anything that may hold them back from giving their best on the field. It’s a simple step that builds confidence for both kids and parents.
At CMCFresno, we make the process quick, easy, and stress-free. Whether your child is gearing up for their first season or returning for another round, we’re here to help. Schedule their sports physical today and give them the safe start they deserve.
Keep Your Kids Safe and Strong This Season
Yes! In fact, it’s the perfect time. Our pediatrician can check if healing is on track and help decide when it’s safe to return to sports.
Loose-fitting, comfy clothes are best, making it easier to move during flexibility and joint checks.
Most findings are manageable. Our pediatrician may suggest follow-up care or recommend adjustments, but it rarely means your child can’t play.
Only partly. You can discuss medical history via telehealth, but the physical exam must happen in person to meet most requirements.
