AUSTIN, Texas -- A new study says one sport isn’t good enough - kids need to play a variety of sports to avoid the risk of injury.
While experts praise active families, a recent study by the American Academy of Pediatrics says young kids who specialize in one sport can be at risk for injury.
“Overuse injuries actually make up about half of all sports injuries in kids,” said pediatric orthopedic surgeon Dr. Matt Ellington.
The study also found 70 percent of kids will quit their organized sport before they reach the age of 15.
“A lot of times these kids, in these one sports, are practicing 2-3 hours a day - kind of constantly going. They’re kind of getting burned out and injuring different parts of their bodies,” said Ellington.
In the Harrison household, options are vital.
“I think giving them a couple of different sports that they actually want to try is the best way to just find out what they like to do,” said Brandy Harrison.
Diversifying sports promotes all-around health.
“Playing different things to get different muscle groups activated,” said Ellington.
Experts say there’s another component to keep in mind for kids with active lifestyles, and that’s getting enough rest.
“If a kid is practicing 3 or 4 hours a day and then a Saturday... Probably not a good idea to go hiking all day,” Ellington said.
The best thing to do is take a break.
“It’s away from everyday swim meets, and track meets and things like that, and it’s family time,” said Harrison.
And like everything else, practice in moderation.
The American Academy of Pediatrics says young athletes should take off 3 months, in one month increments, out of their specialized sport to recover physically and psychologically.