Cumulative Trauma

Knowing about the different somatotypes may be used when recommending children to play certain sports. Although it is important that children receive exposure to a number of different sports, physical educators can "channel" individuals into activities which would not place too much stress on their bodies. For example, a physical educator may recommend that an ectomorph not try to be a baseball pitcher, but perhaps a batter or catcher where the strain on his slender limbs is not as great.

Many physical educators have realized the effect repetitive activity can have on the musculo-skeletal systems of our children. Today, organized children's sports have been modified to try to reduce the incidence of Cumulative Trauma Disorders. By trying to increase the involvement of all participants by limiting the amount of influence a select and gifted few can have on the game, Cumulative Trauma Disorders may be reduced.

Physical educators are also beginning to introduce resistance training such as weight lifting into their class design or as a part of a child’s training for his or her competitive sport. Children may safely participate in a program of low weights with many repetitions, but the repetitions should be monitored to reduce the risk of injury.

Taekwondo instructors need to be aware of the strain various activities can place on a young child’s bones. For this reason, overdoing of activities such as excessive running, jumping, and strength training to a specific area must be avoided. Specifically, excessive kicking of all types should be avoided. Instructors need to develop