Sports season starts here: CareNow sports physicals

Now that school is out and summer is in full swing, schedules are typically more relaxed and afternoons aren't consumed with homework and car lines. But even in the middle of pool days and popsicles, that back-to-school to-do list is quietly waiting. If you have a student-athlete who participates in sports, a sports physical is likely on your list. These physical exams are often required of those who want to participate in the upcoming season. Checking them off of your to-do list early is a great way to get ahead of your school year preparations.

Summer is the perfect time to visit CareNow® urgent care and take advantage of our sports physicals promotion. Getting your child's sports physical out of the way now means one less thing to worry about as summer winds down. And the good news? At CareNow, your visit is timely, straightforward and designed to ensure that your child is set up for success when they lace up for the next season.

Here's what to expect during a sports physical at CareNow

A sports physical — also called a pre-participation physical exam (PPE) — is a simple visit that helps make sure your child is generally healthy and physically ready for the activities they love. It is performed by one of our healthcare providers and should be completed a few weeks in advance of the activity, camp, or training sessions. Usually, the exam takes around 30 minutes and includes a few key elements:

• A conversation about medical history: A provider will start by reviewing your child's personal and family health history. This may include questions about issues like asthma or heart conditions. They might also discuss past injuries like concussions or fractures, as well as any medications that your child is taking. It's also an opportunity to bring up any health changes you've noticed recently, even if they seem minor.
• A check of vitals and basic measurements: Next, a provider will take readings of blood pressure, heart rate, weight, height and sometimes vision. These measurements help establish baselines and detect anything that may need further attention like high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythm or vision concerns.
• A full physical exam: A provider will complete a physical exam focused on your child's muscles, joints, heart, lungs, spine and flexibility. They may ask your child to perform a few quick motions like walking on tiptoes or bending their knees — these tests help to assess balance and range of motion, along with identifying any potential risks before the season starts.

Who needs a sports physical?

If your child is gearing up for tryouts, practice or any sort of physically active program, it's possible a sports physical is either required or strongly recommended. Often, schools and athletic programs ask for a completed physical form before the first day of participation. Some of the programs may include:

• Middle school and high school sports teams
• Cheer, dance and drill teams
• Marching band and color guard
• Recreational or club sports teams
• Sports camps, martial arts classes and other physical activities

Check with your child's school or after-school program to see if a sports physical is required. Even if one is not, the physical can offer you information that you can use to feel comfortable with your child's participation. Also, these are great opportunities for teens and pre-teens to ask questions about their health in a low-stress and supportive environment.

Score a $35 sports physical this summer at CareNow

We are proud to offer convenient and quality sports physicals from May 5 – Aug. 31, 2025 for just $35. Fall sports and extracurriculars will be here faster than you think, and tryouts often start well before the first day of school. Don't wait for the back-to-school rush. Take advantage of the flexibility summer offers and be prepared for the season ahead with CareNow. We offer extended hours, walk-in availability and Web Check-In® so you can get it done on your schedule — no appointment needed.

Why choose CareNow® urgent care

If you need convenient care after hours or on the weekend, consider visiting your local CareNow® urgent care clinic. With 225 locations throughout the country, we are ready to see you when you need it most. We offer comprehensive and accessible healthcare through our extensive clinic network, convenient Web Check-In® service and Virtual Visits, making us a dependable option for your medical needs. Visit the CareNow locations webpage to find a clinic near you.