Get Moving: Prep Your Camper Physically for the Summer of a Lifetime

Physical Prep for Camp

You don’t need to send a finely-tuned athletic machine—but a little physical prep can make your camper feel unstoppable. Summer camp isn’t a vacation—it’s an adventure. It’s hiking trails, kicking soccer balls, practicing cannonballs, and running to breakfast with bedhead and sneakers half-tied. It’s non-stop energy, from sunrise to campfire.

If that sounds like a lot… it is. But here’s the good news: With a little bit of guidance and the right prep, your camper can show up healthy, energized, and ready to take on everything camp has to offer. And you? You’ll feel great knowing they’re prepared to jump in—feet first.

This guide will walk you through every important step, from simple fitness routines to sleep habits and health forms. Because physical prep isn’t about perfection—it’s about making sure your kid is ready to thrive.

Let’s get started...

 

1. Build a Simple, Fun Fitness Routine at Home

If your camper has been spending more time on screens than monkey bars lately, don’t sweat it. That’s exactly why physical prep matters.

 

You don’t need to follow a rigid program or download fancy apps. The goal is simple: get their body moving regularly so they’re not caught off guard by camp’s fast-paced schedule.

Start with 30 minutes of movement a day. That might look like:

• Biking around the neighborhood
• Family walks after dinner
• Dance battles in the living room
• Practicing their favorite sport in the backyard

 

Make it fun. Keep it light. You're not “training” your child—you’re just helping them rediscover movement in a way that feels good. Ask your camp what physical activities are common, and simulate those! Going to a hiking camp? Take a nature walk. Lots of swimming? Hit the community pool once a week.

 

2. Nourish Their Body with Smart Food Choices

Camp days are active—and being fueled by good food makes all the difference.

Now’s a great time to start nudging your camper toward healthier eating habits, especially if they’ve gotten picky over the school year.

Focus on:

• Colorful plates: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats. Keep it simple.
• Smart snacks: Nuts, yogurt, trail mix, and fruit will keep them energized.
• Water, water, water: Hydration is the underrated hero of physical prep. Try going for water over juice or soda to make it a habit now, before camp begins!

Remember, you’re not trying to change everything overnight—just make small shifts that help their body feel its best by the time they head off to camp.

 

3. Schedule a Pre-Camp Check-Up

No prep guide is complete without covering your medical bases. Before your camper zips up their duffel bag, take them in for a check-up.

This ensures:

• They’re cleared for physical activity
• You’ve reviewed any medications with your provider
• You can get all health forms filled out correctly and on time

Don’t forget to bring your camp’s medical form to the appointment and ask about any vaccines, allergies, or concerns specific to your child’s camp experience.

 

4. Pack (and Teach!) Medication Management Skills

If your camper takes regular medication or carries emergency meds like an inhaler or EpiPen, now’s the time to practice independence.

They should know:

• What each medication does
• When and how to take it
• What to do in case they miss a dose
• How to communicate with camp staff if they’re unsure

Keep meds in original containers, clearly labeled, and use a pill organizer if needed. You’ll also want to walk your camper through the schedule a few times before Opening Day.

This step isn’t just logistical—it’s empowering. It gives your child confidence in their ability to take care of themselves.

 

5. Practice Hygiene and Safety Routines

Yes, your kid knows how to brush their teeth. But at camp, no one’s hovering to remind them.

So now’s the time to reinforce:

• Daily showering
• Brushing teeth morning and night
• Applying sunscreen regularly
• Using bug spray (and reapplying!)
• Washing hands before meals

Walk through these routines with your camper like you're handing over the baton. They’re about to be in charge of their own well-being—give them the tools to succeed.

 

6. Choose Gear That Supports Their Physical Needs

What they wear matters. You don’t want your camper sidelined because their shoes gave them blisters or their t-shirt soaked through on a 90° day.

Make sure they’re packing:

• Breathable layers: Camp mornings can be cool and afternoons scorching.
• Comfortable clothes: Athletic wear, camp-friendly tops, and bottoms that move with them.
• Sturdy footwear: Proper sneakers or hiking boots—not just crocs or sandals.

Encourage them to try everything on before camp. Let them run around in those shoes. Jump, skip, roll. Better now than blistered later.

 

The Power of Physical Confidence

When a camper shows up physically prepared, everything else becomes easier.

They jump into games faster. They stay energized longer. They feel capable and confident in their own body—ready to climb, swim, hike, run, and make the most of every day.

And you? You’ll rest easier knowing they’re ready. That you’ve done the work, together, to help them thrive.

 

Lace up those sneakers. Fill up that water bottle. Let the countdown to camp begin.
You’ve got this!