Sports have always been known for having significant physical benefits, but they can also be great for the mind too. After several months, you’re likely to feel healthier, stronger, and happier, enabling you to live a fuller lifestyle.
Finding the motivation to get involved with sports may be low when first starting out, but with some perseverance and dedication, you will reap some amazing health benefits that could benefit you both now and in the future.
In this blog, we’re going to look at some of the key benefits of playing a sport that you may like to know about:
Boosts social connections
Are you keen on making new friends? Playing sports is one of the best ways to meet like-minded people from all walks of life. Sports clubs are made of people from all different backgrounds, religions, professions, and ages, but everyone is unified with one single game. As a result, you’re likely to build relationships with individuals you may never have had the chance to connect with.
Team sports are even more beneficial for those who live alone, as they can give individuals a sense of belonging. As humans, we crave connections with others. Therefore, by joining a sport, you’re likely to be in a better frame of mind than heading to the gym alone.
If you have an interest in sport and you cannot find opportunities in your local area, there’s no reason why you couldn’t build your very own sports team. Get started by purchasing your very own team uniforms at Ares Sportswear.
Reduces stress
Are you constantly feeling stressed and anxious? Whether it be work-related or having to deal with personal issues, it can be difficult to break away from our worries without something else to focus the mind on.
Studies from Harvard Medical School have shown that playing sports as a past-time can significantly reduce stress levels. Stress stimulators such as adrenaline and cortisol hormones are reduced when the blood gets pumping around the body. At the same time, the body releases feel-good endorphins, which make us feel more positive, energetic, and in control.
Improves sleep
Many of us suffer from sleep deprivation which can have a knock-on effect on our mood, focus, and energy levels. However, thanks to the stress-relieving effects of sport, you’re more likely to get a better night’s sleep.
This is, even more the case when playing sport in the early morning. Getting up and active at the crack of dawn allows your body to absorb natural light, which impacts your body’s circadian rhythm and helps you feel lethargic come evening time. If you suffer from insomnia, pledging to join a team sport could be the first step to tackling the issue.
A healthier heart
Heart disease is one of the biggest killers in the USA. However, studies have shown that regular exercise from playing sports can significantly reduce your risk of developing fatal health conditions. Much like other muscles in the body, your heart requires stimulation to stay in good shape. Failing to do so may mean you’re more likely to risk getting clogged arteries and high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attack and strokes.
