TIME is everything for a busy parent of a young athlete, said Jerry Diaz, a certified National Academy of Sports Medicine personal trainer.
Maja Diaz poses for a photo with Sensei Danny Banez after a Kyokushin Karate training session.
“When I began joining sports in school or village leagues, my parents supported my goal to stay active,” he said. “They also reminded me to be respectful to my coaches and teammates, as well as to be safe and avoid injuries while having fun.”
Now a parent himself, Diaz applauds other parents who encourage their children to participate in fitness programs, after-school sporting events and community fitness activities.
But Diaz said parents should also be aware of their behavior during such events because it may affect their children’s attitude and mindset.
He said parents should allow their children to explore as many sports as possible and choose one that can help improve their mental, emotional and physical growth.
Parents should also listen to their child’s coach, Diaz added.
Moreover, children should be encouraged to learn from their errors and mistakes instead of insisting that they be perfect all the time.
Young athletes, for their part, should listen to suggestions and feedback from their coaches and make the needed adjustments during training and competition, Diaz said.
As for parents, they should learn about their children’s successes and challenges while providing encouragement and guidance, Diaz said.
Change and progress take time so parents should be patient and continue supporting their children, he added.
Above all, Diaz said, sports should be a fun and enjoyable experience for a young athlete.
For professional fitness inquiries, contact Jerry Diaz through Instagram at @BBJ_Athletics or Facebook.
