A sports physical — also known as a pre-participation physical exam (PPE) — is a health check designed to make sure your child is physically ready to join sports or other physically demanding activities. It’s more than just a formality — it’s an important step to protect your child’s safety and set them up for success in their season.
During the exam, we look for any health issues that could put your child at risk while playing. This includes checking heart and lung function, muscle and joint health, vision, balance, and overall fitness. We’ll also review your child’s medical history, discuss any past injuries, and answer questions about nutrition, hydration, and injury prevention.
At Happy Hearts Pediatrics, we take the time to provide a thorough, stress-free evaluation so you and your child feel confident and ready for the upcoming season.
The best time to book your child’s sports physical is 4–6 weeks before the start of their season or activity. This allows enough time to address any concerns we may find during the exam — such as an injury that needs recovery or a health condition that requires follow-up — so they can participate without delays.
We keep sports physicals friendly, thorough, and stress-free — so kids feel comfortable and parents feel confident. Here’s how the process works at Happy Hearts Pediatrics:
We Care Above All
When it comes to preparing your child for sports, you want more than just a signature on a form — you want a provider who takes their safety, health, and performance seriously. At Happy Hearts Pediatrics, we make sports physicals convenient, thorough, and reassuring for both kids and parents.
We know parents (and sometimes young athletes) have questions about sports physicals — especially if it’s their first one. Here are answers to the most common ones we hear at our Gilbert office:
Yes — please bring any school, camp, or league forms so we can complete them during your visit.
Most visits take about 20–30 minutes, depending on your child’s needs and the complexity of the forms.
Not exactly. While we can combine them for convenience, a sports physical focuses mainly on readiness for activity, while an annual well-check covers a broader scope of your child’s overall health.
If we find something concerning, we’ll discuss the next steps — which may include follow-up care or treatment — to ensure they can return to play safely.
Yes! We know deadlines can sneak up, so we keep same-day spots open for urgent needs.
Yes — in most cases, your child can eat normally before their appointment. However, if your child is scheduled for any additional testing, we’ll let you know in advance if fasting is needed.
We provide sports physicals for children and teens of all ages, from elementary school through high school.
Yes — we can clear your child for school, recreational, and competitive league sports, as well as specialized activities like martial arts, swimming, or dance.