Tiana Woolridge, MD, MPH, primary care sports medicine physician at HSS, joined the Be Valiant podcast to discuss the physical and emotional pressures facing young athletes and how parents can help create healthier sports experiences.

Dr. Woolridge discussed the risks associated with early sports specialization and year-round training, as well as injury prevention, mental health, female athlete health and the importance of proper fueling. She also shared guidance for parents when evaluating youth sports programs, emphasizing the importance of injury prevention, mental health support and a positive environment where young athletes feel supported.

She also encouraged parents to maintain open communication with their children and reinforce that their worth extends beyond their athletic performance.

Listen to the episode here.