Sports MUST be fun or no one will play. If a child enjoys playing a particular sport, he or she will play more often and with more intensity. This combination will result in a more successful athlete. Music is sometimes effective in keeping the fun element present while exercising and practicing. Riding a stationary bike, treadmill or jogging on a track can be enhanced with the introduction of ones favorite music.
Competition is also fun for most young athletes as long as it is fair and consistent.
When choosing sides for a scrimmage or practice game, the sides should be equally proportioned for maximum fun. Placing all the best athletes on one side and beginners with less expertise on the other, will discourage the beginners from continuing and will be boring and less challenging for the more advanced athletes. If the two sides were equally coordinated, more fun for everyone will result. When groups of athletes or teams are involved, the role of coaches and parents is very important. A good coach should not only help children develop physically, but, should help them develop emotionally.