Extreme sports kids. 5 Thrilling Extreme Sports for Adventure-Seeking Kids

What are some exciting extreme sports options for kids. How can children benefit from participating in alternative sports. Which extreme sports are suitable for young thrill-seekers. Where can kids try aerial silks, indoor rock climbing, parkour, BMX racing, and skateboarding in Charlotte.

Aerial Silks: Soaring to New Heights

Aerial silks offer a unique and captivating alternative sport for children looking to spread their wings. This graceful yet challenging activity involves performing acrobatics while suspended from fabric hung from above. It’s an excellent option for kids who love climbing and spending time on jungle gyms.

Amy Tynan, owner of AerialCLT in Charlotte, explains: “If the jungle gym is your child’s favorite hangout spot, chances are they will really connect with aerial. If your child is one that gets nervous when in a team environment, then aerial arts would be a great alternative for him or her.”

Benefits of Aerial Silks for Kids

• Improves strength and flexibility
• Enhances body awareness and coordination
• Boosts confidence and self-esteem
• Provides a creative outlet for self-expression

AerialCLT offers classes for children ages 8-14, with safety measures in place to ensure a secure learning environment. Beginners start close to the ground and progress to higher altitudes as they gain experience and skill.

Indoor Rock Climbing: Scaling New Challenges

Indoor rock climbing has surged in popularity as an alternative sport for kids. This activity simulates outdoor rock climbing in a controlled, safe environment, providing both physical and mental benefits for young participants.

Grant Lindholm, director of youth programs at Inner Peaks Climbing in Charlotte, highlights the cognitive advantages: “Rock climbing is like solving a puzzle — it takes time and trial-and-error, and pushes us to stay patient. Rock climbing also allows kids to tap into their creativity and come up with their own way of doing things.”

Why Choose Indoor Rock Climbing?

1. Develops problem-solving skills
2. Builds trust and fosters community
3. Enhances physical strength and flexibility
4. Boosts confidence and self-reliance

Inner Peaks Climbing recommends introducing children to rock climbing between ages 5-7, when they have developed sufficient problem-solving abilities. Their Team Discovery program offers a structured introduction to climbing fundamentals for young enthusiasts.

Parkour: Mastering the Art of Movement

Parkour is an exhilarating discipline that challenges participants to navigate complex environments swiftly and efficiently. This sport, which originated from military obstacle course training, teaches kids to overcome physical and mental barriers creatively.

Key Elements of Parkour

• Running, jumping, and climbing over obstacles
• Developing spatial awareness and body control
• Learning to assess risks and make quick decisions
• Building strength, agility, and endurance

Parkour offers a unique blend of physical activity and mental challenge, making it an excellent choice for kids who crave excitement and variety in their exercise routines. It encourages creative problem-solving and helps children develop a strong sense of body awareness.

BMX Racing: Pedaling to Victory

BMX (Bicycle Motocross) racing is an adrenaline-pumping sport that combines speed, skill, and strategy. This high-energy activity involves racing specially designed bicycles on off-road tracks filled with jumps, berms, and other challenging features.

Why Kids Love BMX Racing

• Exciting, fast-paced competition
• Opportunity to perform tricks and stunts
• Develops balance, coordination, and reflexes
• Fosters a sense of community among riders

BMX racing can be an excellent outlet for children with abundant energy and a love for bicycles. It combines individual performance with the camaraderie of a team sport, allowing kids to challenge themselves while forming friendships with fellow riders.

Skateboarding: Rolling into Adventure

Skateboarding has long been a popular alternative sport, offering a unique blend of athleticism, creativity, and self-expression. This versatile activity can be enjoyed casually or pursued competitively, making it accessible to kids with varying levels of interest and skill.

Benefits of Skateboarding for Children

1. Improves balance and coordination
2. Builds leg strength and core stability
3. Enhances spatial awareness and reflexes
4. Fosters creativity and personal style
5. Teaches perseverance and resilience

Skateboarding can be practiced in various settings, from local skate parks to urban environments, allowing kids to explore their surroundings in new and exciting ways. It also offers a sense of freedom and independence that many children find appealing.

Safety Considerations for Extreme Sports

While extreme sports offer numerous benefits for children, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Parents and guardians should take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of injury and ensure a positive experience for young participants.

Essential Safety Tips

• Always use proper protective gear (helmets, pads, etc.)
• Enroll in classes taught by certified instructors
• Start with beginner-level activities and progress gradually
• Supervise children during practice and competitions
• Teach kids to recognize and respect their limits

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the specific safety requirements of each sport, parents can help their children enjoy the thrill of extreme sports while minimizing potential risks.

The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Extreme Sports

Engaging in extreme sports can have profound positive effects on a child’s mental and emotional well-being. These activities often push participants out of their comfort zones, fostering personal growth and resilience.

Psychological Advantages of Extreme Sports

• Boosts self-confidence and self-esteem
• Develops mental toughness and resilience
• Improves focus and concentration
• Teaches effective stress management
• Encourages goal-setting and perseverance

Participating in extreme sports can help children develop a growth mindset, teaching them that skills can be improved through practice and dedication. This perspective can be valuable in all areas of life, from academics to personal relationships.

Choosing the Right Extreme Sport for Your Child

Selecting an appropriate extreme sport for your child involves considering their interests, physical abilities, and temperament. It’s essential to involve your child in the decision-making process and explore various options before committing to a particular activity.

Factors to Consider When Selecting an Extreme Sport

1. Your child’s age and physical development
2. Their personal interests and preferences
3. Available facilities and instructors in your area
4. Associated costs (equipment, lessons, travel, etc.)
5. Time commitment required for practice and competitions

Encourage your child to try different sports through introductory classes or workshops. This approach allows them to experience various activities firsthand and make an informed decision about which sport they enjoy most.

Nurturing a Passion for Extreme Sports

Once your child has found an extreme sport they love, it’s important to support and nurture their passion. This involves more than just providing equipment and transportation to practices; it requires emotional support and encouragement as well.

Ways to Support Your Child’s Extreme Sports Journey

• Attend competitions and showcases to show your support
• Help them set realistic goals and celebrate achievements
• Encourage a balanced approach to sports and other activities
• Foster connections with other families involved in the sport
• Stay informed about the sport’s latest trends and developments

Remember that your child’s interests may evolve over time. Be open to exploring new sports or returning to previously enjoyed activities as your child grows and develops.

The Role of Extreme Sports in Physical Development

Extreme sports can play a significant role in a child’s physical development, offering unique challenges that promote strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. These activities often engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a comprehensive full-body workout.

Physical Benefits of Extreme Sports

1. Improved cardiovascular health
2. Enhanced muscular strength and endurance
3. Better balance and coordination
4. Increased flexibility and range of motion
5. Developed proprioception and body awareness

Engaging in extreme sports can help children develop a lifelong love for physical activity, setting the foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle well into adulthood.

Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

Extreme sports often involve an element of perceived risk, which can be intimidating for some children. However, learning to manage and overcome these fears can be a powerful tool for building confidence and self-assurance.

Strategies for Helping Children Face Their Fears

• Encourage a step-by-step approach to skill progression
• Teach positive self-talk and visualization techniques
• Celebrate small victories and improvements
• Provide a supportive and non-judgmental environment
• Lead by example, showing courage in your own activities

As children learn to push their boundaries and overcome challenges in extreme sports, they often discover a sense of empowerment that extends to other areas of their lives.

The Social Aspect of Extreme Sports

While many extreme sports are individual activities, they often foster a strong sense of community among participants. This social aspect can be particularly beneficial for children, providing opportunities to form friendships and develop important social skills.

Social Benefits of Extreme Sports Participation

1. Opportunities to meet like-minded peers
2. Development of teamwork and communication skills
3. Exposure to diverse groups of people
4. Learning to give and receive constructive feedback
5. Building a support network outside of school and family

The extreme sports community often emphasizes mutual support and encouragement, creating a positive environment for children to grow and thrive.

Balancing Extreme Sports with Academic Responsibilities

As with any extracurricular activity, it’s crucial to find a balance between a child’s passion for extreme sports and their academic responsibilities. With proper planning and time management, children can excel in both areas.

Tips for Maintaining Academic Success While Pursuing Extreme Sports

• Establish a consistent homework and study routine
• Use a planner to track assignments and practice schedules
• Communicate regularly with teachers about sports commitments
• Prioritize tasks and learn to manage time effectively
• Seek tutoring or extra help if needed to stay on track academically

Encourage your child to view their sport as a reward for maintaining good grades, fostering a sense of responsibility and motivation in both areas.

The Future of Extreme Sports for Kids

As extreme sports continue to gain popularity among young participants, we can expect to see further developments in equipment, training methods, and competitive opportunities. The inclusion of some extreme sports in the Olympics has also raised their profile and legitimacy in the eyes of many parents and educators.

Emerging Trends in Youth Extreme Sports

1. Increased focus on safety and injury prevention
2. Development of youth-specific equipment and gear
3. Integration of technology for performance tracking and improvement
4. Expansion of competitive circuits for young athletes
5. Growing recognition of extreme sports in school athletic programs

As the landscape of youth sports continues to evolve, extreme sports are likely to play an increasingly significant role in providing diverse and engaging athletic opportunities for children.

Extreme Sports and Character Development

Participation in extreme sports can have a profound impact on a child’s character development, instilling valuable life skills and personal qualities that extend far beyond the realm of athletics.

Character Traits Fostered by Extreme Sports

• Courage and risk assessment
• Perseverance and resilience
• Self-discipline and commitment
• Creativity and problem-solving
• Humility and sportsmanship

These character traits, developed through the challenges and triumphs of extreme sports, can serve children well in all aspects of their lives, from academic pursuits to future careers.

Extreme Sports as a Path to Professional Opportunities

While not every child who participates in extreme sports will become a professional athlete, the skills and experiences gained can open doors to various career opportunities within the sports industry and beyond.

Potential Career Paths Related to Extreme Sports

1. Professional athlete or coach
2. Sports photographer or videographer
3. Equipment designer or engineer
4. Event organizer or promoter
5. Sports marketing or brand ambassador
6. Physical therapist or sports medicine professional

Encouraging children to explore these potential career paths can help them see the long-term value of their participation in extreme sports, even if they don’t pursue professional competition.

The Role of Parents in Supporting Extreme Sports Participation

Parents play a crucial role in facilitating their child’s involvement in extreme sports. Beyond providing financial and logistical support, parents can significantly influence their child’s attitude, motivation, and overall experience in these activities.

Ways Parents Can Support Their Child’s Extreme Sports Journey

• Educate themselves about the sport and its safety measures
• Maintain open communication about goals, fears, and challenges
• Provide emotional support during setbacks and victories
• Foster a positive attitude towards learning and improvement
• Model good sportsmanship and respect for others in the sport
• Help balance sports commitments with other aspects of life

By taking an active and supportive role in their child’s extreme sports pursuits, parents can help ensure a positive and enriching experience that contributes to their overall growth and development.

5 Extreme Sports for Kids

A world of alternative sports awaits adventurous children.

December 27, 2016

Emily Schappacher,

Photo by Wendy Waddle.BMX racers at the BMX Supercross Track in Rock Hill, S.C.

If the young athlete in your life itching to move beyond the baseball field or the basketball court, there’s no lack of opportunity to explore athletic pursuits that aren’t so traditional. Alternative sports, such as rock climbing, aerial arts, skateboarding and parkour, can provide children a number of physical and mental benefits that can last a lifetime.

“The same benefits that a child receives from any sport they will receive from an alternative sport — it really is just a matter of personality and interest,” says Amy Tynan, owner of AerialCLT, an aerial arts gym with locations in Charlotte and Pineville. “The goal is to keep children active and playing.”

While the thought of your child swinging from the rafters or biking full speed through bumpy terrain on a bicycle motocross — also know as BMX — course may make you cringe, experts agree that staying educated and informed about the sport can help alleviate some of that anxiety. Like other sports, alternative activities provide children a number of physical and mental benefits that can last a lifetime. If you have a sensation-seeker who prefers something different from the usual team sports, read on to learn about about five alternative sports kids can explore in Charlotte, and how it might be a fit for your child.

Aerial Silks

Aerial silks are acrobatics performed while hanging from a suspended fabric which is used to wrap, suspend, swing and spiral the performer’s body into various positions. AerialCLT offers aerial silks classes for children ages 8 to 14 years old.

“If the jungle gym is your child’s favorite hangout spot, chances are they will really connect with aerial,” Tynan says. “If your child is one that gets nervous when in a team environment, then aerial arts would be a great alternative for him or her.”

The physical and mental benefits that a child receives from aerial arts are similar to those they would receive from more traditional sports like dance and gymnastics, Tynan says. To get involved in aerial silks, children can register for a semester of classes on the AerialCLT website, or sign up for a 30-minute private lesson to help determine if the sport is a good fit. AerialCLT also allows drop-in visits for the first two weeks of each semester so kids can try a class without commitment.

Like all sports, aerial arts are not without risk of injury, but Tynan says the professional programs are designed to keep students safe. Children practice low to the ground during their first year, and progressively climb higher as they become more experienced. Instructors are within reach at all times and students work over crash pads.

“We are very slow in our teaching progressions and all of our students have to prove competency at a skill before advancing to the next skill,” she says.

Indoor Rock Climbing

Indoor rock climbing is an increasingly popular form of rock climbing performed on artificial structures designed to mimic real outdoor rock. Grant Lindholm, director of youth programs at Inner Peaks Climbing, a rock climbing gym with two locations in Charlotte (Crown Point on Monroe Road and South Tryon Street in Southend), says indoor rock climbing promotes discipline and problem-solving skills for young children. The sport also requires kids to put trust in one another, which creates a sense of community among participants.

“Rock climbing is like solving a puzzle — it takes time and trial-and-error, and pushes us to stay patient,” Lindholm says. “Rock climbing also allows kids to tap into their creativity and come up with their own way of doing things. The rock climbing community is an awesome environment, and it brings people of all backgrounds together.”

Lindholm recommends introducing interested youth to rock climbing between the ages of 5 and 7, when children are able use problem-solving skills they’ve acquired from other activities. Inner Peaks Climbing offers a number of different youth programs including Team Discovery, its most popular program, which introduces rock-climbing fundamentals through activities appropriate for each climber’s age and skill level.

“Young kids have a great awareness of their bodies and know the best ways to move themselves,” Lindholm says. “Most importantly, I believe that if a kid seems interested in climbing, then that’s a good enough reason to go check it out.”

Parkour

Parkour is the sport of moving from one point in a complex environment to another in the fastest and most efficient way possible — running, jumping and climbing over obstacles along the way. Kids can learn to literally bounce off the walls. The sport was developed from military obstacle course training and is often compared to a noncombative martial art.

Acrofitness in Mooresville offers Pee Wee Parkour, a co-ed class for children ages 4-7; and Princess Parkour, a class for girls ages 4 and older. Marie Severance, owner of Acrofitness, says success in parkour, comes with development of whole-body athleticism to meet the sport’s demand for speed, agility, upper- and lower-body strength, flexibility, coordination and timing.

“Parkour is an amazing natural conditioning program,” Severance says. “Students will develop skills which allow them to succeed not only in the parkour program, but in other sports as well.”

Severance says most kids are a good fit for this “fun” way to get in shape, and Acrofitness welcomes students beginning at age 4, or as soon as they are able to follow specific instructions and are tall enough to scale the smaller mat systems.

There are risks associated with the sport, including injuries ranging from simple abrasions to broken bones. The best way to get involved in parkour is to look for a reputable facility and test the waters with a trial class. Proper training and supervised progression can minimize risks, Severance says.

“The televised ‘American Ninja Warrior’ competitions have ignited the thrill [of parkour], and anyone with the desire can succeed,” Severance says. “We are very passionate about parkour, and its fabulous incentive to get students up and inspired to move Spider-Man style!”

Skateboarding

Skateboarding is an alternative sport that has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past several years, with more skate parks opening, more competitions being held and more coverage of the sport on television. In fact, for the first time in history, skateboarding is an event in the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

Rob Dunfey, founder of GoSkate Skateboard School, based in San Diego, is excited about skateboarding’s “comeback.” GoSkate provides youth lessons in more than 1,300 skate facilities nationwide, including Grayson Skate Park in Charlotte. Certified GoSkate instructors help students master the fundamentals of skateboarding through lessons based on a student’s capabilities.

“Shakespeare said, ‘The world is your oyster,’” Dunfey says. “For skateboarding, the world is your playground.”

Children as young as 4 years old can get involved in skateboarding, Dunfey says. As little as $140 can buy the necessary board, helmet, elbow pads, knee pads and wrist guards; and kids can practice in skate parks or on any open stretch of concrete or asphalt, he says.

The most common skateboarding injuries are minor, such as scraped hands and elbows, bruised shins, and sprained ankles. Data shows that three out of every four skateboarding accidents happen in the first week, Dunfey says, and proper safety gear and professional instruction can help minimize the risk of these incidents.

“Thousands of new skaters have taken lessons with GoSkate and fewer than a dozen incidents have been reported since 2009,” Dunfey says. “A majority of people jump the gun and start skating without help.”

Bicycle Motocross

For bike riders looking to up the ante on adventure, bicycle motocross — or BMX — may be the way to go. In this sport, athletes ride special BMX bikes on dirt tracks or other off-road terrain. BMX races and stunt competitions are popular among more experienced riders.

The Novant Health BMX Supercross Track, run by the City of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department, offers a free new rider orientation each Tuesday from 6-7 p.m. and on most Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. The orientation provides an introduction to BMX with a progressive approach that prepares riders for competition when they are ready. The track also offers additional clinics to support learning skills beyond the initial orientation session, and provides BMX bike and helmet rentals for $10.

Hornets Nest BMX welcomes interested riders to come watch or practice at Hornets Nest Park in northwest Charlotte. For $5, a new rider can join in a practice. Weather permitting, practices happen Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 6-8 p.m. New riders are required to wear pants, long-sleeve shirts, enclosed shoes and a helmet, and almost any bike can be outfitted for BMX.

The program in Rock Hill has participants as young as age 5 and allows “striders” (kids on bikes without pedals) to try the track. Once they master pedaling, they can begin racing.

“BMX is an all-ages sport. Starting young helps riders develop balance, strength and bike handling skills,” says Laurie Helms, marketing coordinator for the City of Rock Hill Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department. “Kids who take on adventure sports may be more likely to live an active lifestyle as adults, which can bring a number of health benefits, and can also lead to increased self-confidence. ”

Emily Schappacher is writer, wife and mom who is soon to dive into swim lessons with her 2-year-old son.

Kids and Extreme Sports: Should They Be Allowed?

Is your kid obsessed with becoming the next X Games star, Olympic medalist, or YouTube stuntman? Young kids often have no fear when it comes to taking risks, but are extreme sports like dirt bike riding and bungee jumping dangerous for kids? 

Related: Sports Safety Tips for Your Child 

Though traditional sports like football, basketball, and hockey aren’t exactly going out of style, the world of extreme sports is growing in popularity. Kids and adults alike are participating in increasing numbers in these risky—if not sometimes downright dangerous—sports. But why?

From skateboarding and snowboarding to BMX biking and rock climbing, pop culture and social media have collided to amp up physical activity and make super-sized stunts seem like the norm. Long gone are the days when peer pressure from classmates, neighbors or older sibs drove younger children to drop into a half-pipe or launch their bike off a crazy incline.  

Today’s kiddos are also influenced by…well, influencers. YouTube stars, TikTok creators, and even Olympic athletes have turned extreme sports from something that only the wildest child would attempt to everyday activities. 

If your littles are begging to do extreme sports and you’re totally new to these types of activities, read on for more info on the risks, benefits, times to encourage your kiddo, and when to flat out say a big ‘ol, “NO.”

Extreme Sports Growing More Popular with Kids

Some kids are happier riding their skateboards than dealing with the structure of soccer practice. Others like cruising around on their BMX bikes until their legs just quit, surfing themselves silly, or spending the entire weekend learning new tricks on their inline skates. 

Of course, young kids are also attracted to extreme sports because they’re cool. And who doesn’t like being on the cutting edge? Snowboarding, the bad-boy little brother of skiing, was legitimized by sports traditionalists when it became an official Olympic event at the 1998 Nagano Games.  

Fast-forward to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (which were actually held in 2021 thanks to the pandemic) and skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing became legit gold, silver, and bronze events! 

Studies Show Fewer Kids Are Joining School Sports Teams 

Have the days of dribbling a ball down a court or passing a puck gone the way of the dinosaurs? According to stats from Project Play, in 2021 the most popular youth sports for children ages six through 12 were bicycling, basketball, and baseball. Even though more than 5.2 million children biked in 2021, this was a significant change from way back in 2008. 

The Project Play statistics show that only 18 percent of children reported bicycling in 2021, while a whopping 27.7 percent got active on two wheels in 2008. 

Basketball team play dropped from 16.6 percent to 14.5 percent participation and baseball from 16.5 percent to 12.6 percent between 2008 and 2021. The number of children playing other popular team sports, such as soccer, tackle football, and flag football, also dropped during the same time frame.  

Basketball is Less Popular But Bicycling is Big with Teens

The same downward trends didn’t happen for teen participation in all traditional sports. Bicycling participation grew from 16.8 percent to 21 percent between 2008 and 2021 and baseball play rose from 8.2 percent to 9.5 percent. 

What could account for the overall downward trend in team and individual youth sports play? There isn’t one reason. But some of the possible explanations include an increasingly competitive climate, the high cost of intensive travel sports (such as hockey), or interest in other activities —such as extreme sports.

Dangerous Sports: Kids in BMX, Climbing, and Bungee Jumping?!

We spoke to Paul Vail, 29, a BMX freestyle bike rider for more than 14 years to learn more about the kinds of extreme sports kids are trying. 

Vail says that when it comes to extreme sports, “Today’s kids who’ve been riding skateboards or BMX bikes since they were 12-year-olds will become the parents who say, ‘Yes, skateboarding, bike riding — perfectly acceptable sports for my kid to do. And don’t tell me they have to play football or be on the basketball team to be accepted, because that’s no longer true.'”

Vail balks at the term “extreme sports.” “People have been skydiving, skiing, riding bikes, doing tricks, and taking jumps forever. I think the extreme sports label is a gimmick. I like the term ‘alternative sports’.”

Extreme or not, it’s important to encourage kids to express themselves physically, whether their athletic tastes are trendy or traditional. Both solo and team-oriented sports can build self-confidence, relieve stress, and promote physical fitness — all of which are vital to growing kids and adults alike.

Kids in “alternative” sports are expressive, highly skilled athletes. And sports like rock climbing, snowboarding, inline skating, surfing, skateboarding, extreme skiing, and mountain biking (to name just a few), require significant technical ability as well as strength and endurance. Plus, alternative sports can help your kids develop positive qualities like discipline, persistence, and determination.  

Kids in Ski Jumping or Snowboarding

BMX, skateboarding, and bungee jumping aren’t the only extreme sports kids flock to. Even though ski jumping might seem like a new adventurous activity, it made its Olympic debut way back in 1924. 

Of course, this doesn’t mean kiddos were climbing up mountains, whooshing down slopes, and flying into the air on two skis a century ago. While this soaring sport isn’t exactly new, its youth appeal has spiked in recent years. According to Women’s Ski Jumping USA, five to eight years old is the age average for ski jumpers to start the sport!

Like ski jumping, snowboarding is a winter-time extreme sport that has skyrocketed in popularity. Again, snowboarding became Olympic-official in 1998. Almost a decade later, in 2006, then-19-year-old Shaun White made his first bid for the gold. But White certainly wasn’t the last teen to take this extreme sport up a level and put it center stage. 

Seventeen-year-old Chloe Kim became the youngest women’s Olympic halfpipe competitor to nab the gold in 2018 at the PyeongChang games. With role models like White and Kim to follow, a whole new generation is getting into the halfpipe! 

Not only do today’s kiddos follow these, and other top athletes, but during the Olympics, they can watch the extreme antics of snowboarders on YouTube, TikTok, and just about every other social media site.

Kids and Sport Injuries

How dangerous are extreme sports? As a parent, your child’s safety is priority number one. And that’s why you’re not so sure about your kiddo’s extreme activities. Even though extreme sports do often come with, as the name implies, extreme risks, these aren’t the only athletics that can result in serious injuries. 

According to Stanford Medicine Children’s Health, each year over 3.5 million children (14 and under) are injured during sports play. This includes more than 775,000 kiddos who require ER treatment. The majority of the injuries requiring hospital-level care are the result of collisions, falls, overexertion (during informal recreational activities) or object-related impacts.  

When it comes to the most injuries per sport, football takes the top spot—with nearly 215,000 five- to 14-year-olds treated in hospitals in one year. This number is higher than what you find with some extreme sports. But in general, more children play this type of traditional team sport than engage in extreme activity. 

A 2015 study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine looked at the prevalence of head and neck injuries in extreme sports. The researchers found that between 2000 and 2011 there were more than four million total injuries from these types of activities (this includes adult injuries). 

Over 11 percent of these were head and neck injuries. Of these head and neck injuries, the extreme sports with the highest number of incidents included skateboarding, snowboarding, skiing, and motocross. 

Fear is probably the number-one reason many of us avoid taking risks. For athletes in extreme sports, conquering fear is part of the adventure of sport. When a skateboarder is practicing tricks on a 15-foot ramp (commonly called a half-pipe), or a mountain biker is flying down a rock-strewn single-track trail, and he makes a mistake and falls — well, it’s going to hurt a little. Okay, maybe a lot.

But the athletes we spoke to didn’t complain about injuries. In fact, most have enjoyed relatively injury-free experiences in their sports. Brian Krause, a competitive skydiver for the U.S. Army’s Golden Knights, has taken thousands of jumps out of airplanes without so much as a sprained ankle.

But Matt Donovan, a pro downhill mountain bike racer from Massachusetts, said that when he first got serious about racing, his season was “very injury-laden. I had two concussions, a separated shoulder, a broken hand, multiple cuts, and lacerations. And I cracked a rib.”

There are two kinds of sports injuries: 

1. Chronic Repetitive or Overuse Injuries 

Overuse injuries can cause stress fractures, muscle tears, or progressive bone deformities.

2. Acute Injuries

Acute sports injuries occur as a result of trauma from contact with a major force. Acute sports injuries include fractures, broken bones, dislocations, and more serious spinal and brain injuries.

Is It Wrong to Let Children Do Extreme Sports? 

Should safety concerns stop your child from trying an extreme sport? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. If your adventure-loving kiddo is all about skateboarding, snowboarding, parkour, BMX biking, or any other high-octane activity, you will need to think about:

Your Child’s Age and Developmental Level

Is your child developmentally ready to handle the challenge? What is their skill level when it comes to basic coordination and athletic tasks like running, jumping, and balancing? Can you trust them to act responsibly, follow an instructor’s directions, and wear safety equipment correctly? 

Your Child’s Motivation 

Does your child want to become the next Tik Tok star? If your tween has dreams of easily twisting a BMX bike around in mid-air like their fave influencer or thinks videos of teens crashing their skateboards into just about anything and everything is hilarious, they may struggle to stay safe while engaging in an extreme sport.

The Instructor or Coach 

Who will teach your child about the sport? A YouTube video or IG video are not a substitute for the real deal. Only a qualified instructor or professional should instruct your child.

The Safety Equipment 

Do you know what safety equipment your child will need? Will they wear it? You may need to learn more about the equipment standards before you allow your child to participate in extreme activities.

What types of equipment do children need? The specific items depend on the sport. These could include a helmet, shoulder pads, shin pads, elbow pads, or wrist guards. 

According to Seattle Children’s Hospital, skiers and snowboarders should wear a helmet that meets ASTM, CEN, or Snell standards.  Skateboarders should wear one that conforms to the ASTM F1492 standard. Children who ride bikes or scooters should wear a helmet that meets CPSC or Snell standards, knee pads, and elbow pads.

When is an extreme sport too extreme? If you don’t feel comfortable with your child engaging in the activity or don’t feel that they can follow safety directions, it’s okay to just say no. Some sports are not age-appropriate for younger kids, and you should wait until they’re a bit older to try them out.

It’s also okay to talk to ask questions, talk to a pro, or take your time gathering facts, stats, and any other info about the adventurous activity! Learn more about extreme sports by taking our quiz here.

Top 5 extreme sports for children with autism

Photo: regional.kompas com

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Children with autism may find it difficult to participate in team sports or social activities that require communication and interaction with others.

However, extreme sports can be a great way for children with autism to develop physical skills, build self-confidence and improve socialization.
Here are the top five extreme sports for kids with autism according to tetongravity com:

CLIMBING

Climbing is a great adventure sport for kids with autism because it involves physical activity, problem solving, and a sense of accomplishment. Climbing walls can be found in most indoor climbing gyms and outdoor parks. Children can climb the wall using their arms and legs, grabbing handrails and footholds along the way. Climbing is a non-competitive sport focused on individual progress, so kids can work at their own pace and improve their climbing skills over time.

HORSE RIDING

Horse riding, also known as hippotherapy, is a great adventure sport for children with autism because it involves physical activity and can help improve social skills. Riding a horse requires coordination, balance and concentration, which can help children develop motor skills and improve their concentration.

In addition, working with horses can help children develop empathy and communication skills. Horses are intuitive animals that respond to body language and vocal cues, so children need to learn how to communicate effectively with a horse.

SURFING

Surfing is an exciting adventure sport that involves riding the waves on a surfboard. This is a great activity for children with autism because it gives them a sense of freedom and independence. Surfing can help children develop balance, coordination and agility. In addition, surfing can help improve social skills by providing children with a shared activity that they can enjoy with others. Surf instructors are most often trained to work with children of all abilities, so children with autism can get the support and guidance they need to succeed.

KAYAKING

Kayaking is an adventure sport that involves riding a small boat on the water. This is a great activity for children with autism because it gives them a sense of independence and freedom. Kayaking can help children develop upper body strength, coordination and balance.
In addition, kayaking can help improve social skills by providing children with a shared activity that they can enjoy with others. Kayaking instructors are trained to work with children of all abilities, so children with autism can get the support and guidance they need to succeed.

HIKING

Hiking is an adventure sport that involves walking through nature along a trail. This is a great activity for kids with autism because it gives a sense of exploration and adventure.
Hiking can help children develop endurance, balance, and coordination. In addition, walking can help improve social skills by providing children with a shared activity that they can enjoy with others. Hiking trails can be found in many parks and reserves so kids can explore the natural world and learn about different ecosystems.

In conclusion, extreme sports can be a great way for children with autism to develop physical skills, build self-confidence and improve socialization.

Climbing, horseback riding, surfing, kayaking and hiking are all great adventure sports that bring unique benefits to children with autism.
These activities can help children develop motor skills, coordination, and balance, as well as instill a sense of independence and adventure. In addition, extreme sports can help improve social skills by providing children with shared activities that they can enjoy with others.

By participating in extreme sports, children with autism can develop new skills, make new friends and have fun.

Sports for children – what kind of sport to send the child to

Every year new sports sections are opened in Russia, where numerous sports for children are presented, and this is no coincidence. According to statistics, every fourth child in our country by the age of 10 tends to develop chronic diseases against the backdrop of an unhealthy lifestyle.

To avoid diseases such as obesity, diabetes and spinal diseases, doctors recommend involving children in sports from an early age. It can be family trips, active games, field trips or regular visits to sports sections.

What kind of sport to send the child to

Thinking about what sport to send the child to, few parents are aware that this choice should take into account not only the age of the baby, but also his individual characteristics. Often, having given a child to a sports section, parents later regret their choice, because the child simply refuses to study and does not want to attend a sports club.

To prevent this from happening, you need to choose a sport for a child in accordance with the temperament of the baby:

• Sanguine. These kids love to be leaders. They need praise and victory. Such children are best suited for active sports. Any speed-strength disciplines can be an excellent choice;
• Cholerics. These kids are emotional and also ready to work in a team. They will be comfortable with cyclic sports or martial arts;
• Phlegmatic. Toddlers with this character do an excellent job with multiple repetitions of one action. This means that the best choice for them will be cyclic or complex-coordinating disciplines;
• Melancholy. For them, the severity of the coach and Spartan conditions are unacceptable. With the right approach, such kids can show success in fencing or shooting. Intellectual pursuits can also be an excellent choice for them.

To determine which section is right for your child, you can take a specialized test. Testing will help determine goals and objectives, find out what character the baby has and choose for him exactly the circle in which he will feel comfortable.

Important! Before enrolling in a section, you need to get advice from the local pediatrician. Some disciplines have absolute contraindications. In addition, you will have to pass tests and undergo examinations from narrow specialists.

Sports for preschoolers

Sports for young children are activities that develop basic physical skills and strengthen the immune system. Don’t expect a two-year-old to become a champion right away.

Sports for preschool children are necessary for the general development and preparation of the child for more serious activities. Doctors consider 4-5 years old to be the ideal age to start classes. But if the baby is active and healthy, classes in certain disciplines can be started as early as two years old.

Most parents believe that at this age it is too early to attend sports sections, and the only option for physical training is swimming in the pool. But this is absolutely not true. Today, many circles invite kids of very young age, where specially trained trainers work with them.

Sports for children from 2 years old

From the age of two, babies need more physical activity. They run, jump, tumble and fall everywhere. And so that their pranks do not turn into serious injuries, parents should think about structured physical activity.

Adequate physical activity at this age – classes at least 2 times a week for 30 minutes. With age, the number of hours of classes gradually increases and by the age of 5 it can be 2 hours 3 times a week.

Training for the little ones is not full-fledged training with competitions and victories. At this time, training is based on the principle of the game. The kid will run, jump, have fun, learn the simplest exercises and perform elementary tasks.

Ideal sports for children aged 2+:

• Swimming;
• Dancing;
• Gymnastics;
• Balance bike;
• Children’s yoga;
• Trampolining.

At this age, it is still very difficult for a baby to remain without a mother or father, so it is absolutely impossible to leave him alone among strangers, you will have to work with him. Moreover, you will have to perform all the exercises with the baby, because he will repeat exactly for you.

At the age of 3-4, the baby can already perform more complex exercises and understand the requirements of the trainer. It is this age that is considered optimal for starting classes.

The following sections are already available at this time:

• Skis;
• Martial arts;
• Tennis or table tennis;
• Golf;
• Roller skates;
• Figure skating.

If you are afraid to send your baby to these sections at such a young age, pay attention to developing centers with a sports bias. In such centers, general developmental classes include physical education lessons, where trainers teach the smallest physical exercises in a playful way.

Reference: From the age of two, babies experience an active leap in growth and development. Optimal loads will help to properly form muscle mass and the musculoskeletal system, which will further protect them from health problems.

What kind of sport to give a child 5 – 6 years old

Children who have reached the age of five are already absolutely ready for classes in the sports section. This is exactly the age when a young athlete begins to understand the meaning of a team game, adequately perceive criticism from the coach and fulfill his requirements.

If you are wondering what kind of sport to send your 5-6 year old child to, team sports can be an excellent choice, these include:

• Football;
• Hockey;
• Water polo;
• Golf;
• Rugby;
• Tennis;
• Volleyball;
• Basketball;
• Badminton;
• Handball etc.

At preschool age, training should be moderate. A growing body can react negatively to increased stress, and then instead of benefiting, classes will only bring health problems. If, while watching a preschooler, you notice that he began to sleep poorly, is often naughty and gets tired quickly, talk to the trainer about reducing the load or change the section.

Reference: According to statistics, children who study in sections from the age of 5 have strong immunity, are more diligent in the classroom, are disciplined and learn the school curriculum better in the lower grades. In high school, they also excel academically and are less likely to be influenced by bad company.

Sports for children of school age

School age is the time to learn about sports. In many schools, sections are open where children can study with classmates. Also for children there are circles in the homes of schoolchildren, where classes are held completely free of charge. In addition, students can go to the section from specialized sports schools, where they prepare for admission to sports boarding schools.

The choice of sports for school-age children is really great. Already in the first grade, children can practice at a professional level, preparing for a sports career. Thanks to the national program “Sport is the norm of life”, dozens of sports facilities are planned to be built throughout the country to attract schoolchildren to a healthy lifestyle until 2024.

Sports for children aged 7-10

Primary school is a period of serious restructuring in the rhythm of life. Often, children in the first years of schooling suffer from overwork and distracted attention. These problems can be easily solved with physical activity. Regular classes increase endurance and performance, contribute to the assimilation of the curriculum and help the student to develop comprehensively.

Sports for children 7-10 years old – these are almost all sections, with the exception of extreme ones with a high risk of injury. The choice of a section depends on many factors, but the main thing here should be the desire of the child himself, because at this age he can already choose what he likes.

Remarkably, modern children often choose sections that are completely incomprehensible to their parents. For example, girls might decide to go into boxing and boys into weightlifting. But parents do not need to be afraid of such a choice, because history knows many champions who went to the section against the wishes of their parents.

The best choice at this age will be team sports, because the student already understands what a team is and can fully participate in the life of the team.

The most popular clubs at this age:

• For girls – artistic gymnastics, dancing, athletics, figure skating, synchronized swimming, rhythmic gymnastics, volleyball, etc.;
• For boys – football, tennis, basketball, martial arts, hockey, weightlifting, pentathlon, etc.

Whatever sport your child chooses, you should not expect great victories and achievements at this age. At the age of 7-10, children only learn to work in a team and learn the basics of sports discipline. At this stage, it is important that the child likes the classes, and he goes to the section with pleasure.

It is important for parents to understand that a young athlete can change their mind at any time and decide to pursue another discipline. In this case, it is not necessary to force him to attend the section, it is necessary to support him and show that he has the right to independently decide what kind of sport he should do. If your child has a hard time with physical activity, consider mind sports such as chess, checkers, or go.

Important! At this age, it is necessary to choose not so much a section as a coach. Only a qualified and experienced children’s coach will be able not only to interest the student, but also to ensure the correct individual training schedule.

Sports for children aged 11-13

From the age of 11, today’s children already consider themselves adults. Many of them choose street sports as their hobby, where they can show their talents.

Outdoor sports for children aged 11-13, these are:

• Breaking;
• Parkour;
• Skateboarding;
• BMX.

In addition, teenagers often choose diving, skydiving, rock climbing, kitesurfing and so on. If your child is already engaged in the sports section, but at this age he decided to change his occupation, do not interfere with him, because modern sports are a great opportunity to learn something new and realize himself, which means that he will be engaged with enthusiasm and pleasure.

Considering unusual sports, you can also offer a teenager such sections as gorodki, lapta or food running, which originated more than 200 years ago and are now gaining their popularity again in Russia.

Parents should know that it is at the age of 11-13 that coaches look at young athletes and choose the most promising ones to attract them to professional sports.

If you have been offered a transfer to a sports school, you need to weigh the pros and cons, because a sports career is often accompanied by injuries and numerous restrictions. But if you see that a teenager wants and can be a professional in his sport, feel free to trust the coach, because in a few years your child may well become an Olympic champion.

Important! When enrolling a teenager in a sports school or a section for professional activities, you must take out sports insurance. Insurance will allow you to receive compensation for injuries in training and competitions. Also, without a policy, athletes are not allowed to compete.

Sport in Russia, as well as a healthy lifestyle in general, is becoming fashionable. More than 80% of Russians under the age of 30 regularly visit gyms and playgrounds, go on outdoor activities and teach children to play sports. Thanks to state support, sports for children are numerous, varied, and most importantly accessible.