How Do You Help Girl Athletes Get Through Puberty?
Millions of girls play sports – and this number continues to grow. One of the most important aspects of girls’ participation in sports is that the girls continue to be active while facing the challenges of puberty. Relish the benefits. Experts stress that the physical activity of sports is an extremely important health benefit for young girls. Expect some challenges. Girls drop out of sports at a rate six times higher than do boys, many of them during puberty. Keep high standards. Despite certain effects of puberty on performance, puberty has no effect on skill development. Skill can increase with practice. Don’t be concerned with delayed menstrual periods. Delayed menstruation is not medically harmful as long as it occurs by age 18. Consult a doctor. You can put your mind to rest concerning any aspects of sports and puberty. You’re better off with a doctor who understands and is supportive of youth sports. Make sports a positive part of puberty. With all of the physical, social, and e
