• Standard stepwise management for athletes returning to sport after a concussion.
• Follows the 2023 Amsterdam Consensus guidelines.
• Initiated after an initial 24–48 hour period of relative physical and cognitive rest.

• Stage 1: Symptom-limited activity (ADLs, walking, light reading). Objective: Gradual re-introduction of activity.
• Stage 2: Light aerobic exercise (Walking, stationary cycling; <70% max HR). No resistance training.
• Stage 3: Sport-specific exercise (e.g., running drills, skating). No head impact/contact activity.
• Stage 4: Non-contact training drills (Complex training drills, passing, resistance training).
• Stage 5: Full-contact practice (Following medical clearance). Objective: Restore confidence and technical skills.
• Stage 6: Return to play (Full participation in games/competition).

Allow at least 24 hours between each stage. If symptoms recur during a stage, the athlete should drop back to the previous successful stage and attempt to progress again after 24 hours of rest.

The 6th Consensus (Amsterdam) emphasizes that "total rest" is no longer recommended. Controlled, symptom-limited physical activity (Stage 1/2) starting 24–48 hours post-injury has been shown to improve recovery times compared to strict inactivity.

• Return to full-time school/academics should occur before returning to full-contact sport.
• In youth athletes, "Step 1" (Relative Rest) and return to learn often take longer than in adults.
• The target HR for Stage 2 should be informed by the Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test (BCTT) if available.

• Final Medical Clearance: Traditionally required before "Stage 5" (Full Contact).
• Return-to-School Coordination: Ensure teachers and coaches are aligned on the athlete's current stage.