What Does a Sports Physical Exam Consist Of? Complete Guide for Parents and Athletes

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Oluwakemi Balogun (Kemi), MD — Medhaven Health

Last updated: September 2025

When a new sports season is around the corner, one of the first things coaches and schools ask for is a sports physical exam. But many parents and young athletes wonder: what does a sports physical exam consist of? How long does it take, what’s included, and do you need shots or lab tests?

As someone who has guided families through this process, I’ll walk you through everything step by step — from the basics of what doctors check, to how long the exam lasts, and even myths like whether sports physicals include drug testing.

What Is a Sports Physical Exam?

A sports physical (also called a pre-participation physical evaluation) is a medical check-up designed to make sure a child, teen, or adult is healthy enough to participate in sports. Unlike a regular annual check-up, this exam is focused on injury prevention, detecting health risks, and ensuring safe participation in physical activity.

Schools, youth leagues, and athletic organizations often require a sports physical before allowing participation.

What Does a Sports Physical Exam Consist Of?

A typical sports physical exam has two main parts:

1. Medical History Review

The doctor or nurse practitioner will ask about:

• Previous injuries (sprains, fractures, concussions)

• Any history of asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or seizures

• Allergies (especially to medications)

• Past surgeries or hospitalizations

• Family medical history (heart conditions, sudden cardiac arrest, etc.)

• Current medications or supplements

This step is critical because many underlying health issues can affect sports safety.

2. Physical Examination

During the physical exam, providers usually check:

• Height, weight, and vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, vision test)

• Heart and lungs – listening for murmurs, irregular heartbeat, or breathing issues

• Abdomen check – to rule out hernias or organ enlargement

• Musculoskeletal exam – checking strength, flexibility, joint health, and posture

• Neurological check – reflexes, coordination, and balance

• Skin exam – looking for rashes, infections, or conditions that may affect sports participation

This exam ensures that the athlete can safely train and compete.

Do You Need Shots for a Sports Physical?

Many parents ask if a physical shot is part of the exam. The answer: sports physicals themselves don’t usually include vaccinations. However, if your child is due for immunizations, the doctor may recommend them during the visit. It’s smart to bring vaccination records so everything stays up to date.

How Long Do Sports Physicals Take?

Sports physicals are usually quick and straightforward. On average:

• 15–30 minutes for the entire exam

• 5–10 minutes for medical history questions

• 10–20 minutes for the physical examination

If additional testing is needed (like an EKG or lab work), it may take longer.

How Long Do Sports Physicals Last?

The results of a sports physical typically last one year. That’s why most schools and leagues require them annually before each new season.

If you’re asking, how long are physicals good for? — The standard rule is 12 months, though some states or organizations may have slightly different requirements.

What Happens at a Sports Physical for a Boy?

For male athletes, the exam is very similar to a general sports physical, with a focus on:

• Growth and development

• Hernia check

• Musculoskeletal health for strength and flexibility

• Any history of chest pain, fainting, or breathing issues during exercise

What Is a Sports Physical for a Girl?

For female athletes, providers may ask additional questions about:

• Menstrual cycle regularity

• Risk of low energy availability or eating disorders (common in young athletes)

• Bone health, since girls are at a higher risk of stress fractures

The physical exam itself is generally the same for boys and girls.

Youth Sports Physical: Why It’s Important

For kids and teens, a youth sports physical isn’t just a requirement — it’s an important safety measure. Early detection of issues like asthma, heart murmurs, or joint problems can prevent injuries and even save lives.

This also gives parents and athletes a chance to ask about training tips, nutrition, and safe performance practices.

Do Sports Physicals Include Drug Tests?

A common myth is that sports physicals involve drug testing. The truth: they do not. Sports physicals focus on overall health and safety, not drug screening.

Drug testing may occur separately in competitive or college-level sports programs, but it’s not part of the standard exam.

Kids Sports Physical vs. Regular Check-Up

Parents often wonder whether they can substitute a regular annual check-up for a sports physical. While both are similar, the sports physical is more specific to athletic participation.

Some clinics allow combining them into a single visit, covering both general health and sports clearance.

What Parents Should Know

As someone who has worked alongside healthcare providers and parents during sports season, here’s my advice:

• Bring all medical records — especially immunization history.

• Prepare your child by explaining that the exam is quick and painless.

• Use the opportunity to ask questions about nutrition, injury prevention, and performance.

• Don’t wait until the last minute — clinics get packed right before sports tryouts.

From experience, kids who get their sports physicals early are less stressed and more prepared for the season.

Final Thoughts

A sports physical exam is a simple but essential step for safe athletic participation. It reviews an athlete’s medical history, checks overall health, and ensures readiness for physical activity.

To recap:

• Exams take 15–30 minutes

• Valid for one year

• Focused on preventing injuries and detecting risks

• Different questions may be asked for boys vs. girls

• No drug testing is included

By scheduling a sports physical on time, you’ll give your child the green light to play safely and confidently.