The term “Sports” encompasses many activities, many abilities, and many ages. From walking or running, swimming or workouts, and traditional team experiences; sports will benefit those individuals who are involved. According to Ryan Smith of Lexington, KY, there has been much research to show that exercise at any age is not only helpful but vital for both physical and mental health.
PHYSICAL BENEFITS
Intentional physical activity such as exercise, even just 10-15 minutes each day, will aid the strengthening of muscle tissue and reduce body fat. Good, consistent physical activity found in sports participation will also help in to build bone strength, increase stamina, and aid both balance and coordination. Active participation in sports helps to improve the cardiovascular system and lung capacity, thereby lessening the strain on the heart and lowering blood pressure.
Those with chronic pain disorders may find that the physical activity demanded in sports will lower the stress hormone levels in the body so that relaxation is possible, as well as more restorative sleep at night. Those individuals who might struggle with physical challenges will find that participating in adaptive sports activities is quite beneficial. Studies have shown that older adults as well as those in extended care or retirement homes also benefit from sports exercise. All ages of children are more likely to be healthier and stronger because of sports activities that are age appropriate.
It is not at all uncommon today to see employees walking outside of their office buildings during their lunch times. Medical and support staff in hospitals are also quite likely to be found walking outside during parts of the day. Many companies have initiated team sports and encourage participation by employees of any ability.
Those individuals who participate in organized sports have reported many good benefits. Stronger bodies, lower body fat, focus and, help with controlling Type 2 Diabetes are also the result of active sports lives. One issue that teens, particularly, struggle to overcome is that of body image. Most teens also seek a small community where they are accepted. For many young people and adults as well, these concerns can be addressed through sports participation.
Many people face each day struggling with chronic pain difficulties. Participation in sports activities, whether playing on a team, walking, swimming, or any of many other active physical experiences will relax muscles and connective tissue, resulting in reduced pain symptoms and restorative sleep. The benefit may well include less dependency on medications.
There are some serious concerns to consider when playing sports of any kind. Proper training, and good instruction are critical to development of skills and self-care. While each person needs to give the best effort possible, remember that it is critical to continue with training as well as “warm up” exercises to minimize the possibility of physical injuries.
Sports and exercises are known to aid in the release of endorphins, a natural chemical that aids in reducing stress and anxiety. However, these benefits may well be stunted when the individual begins to focus on winning instead of best effort and full involvement in the activity. Mistakes and injuries can be the result of over-focus on winning or a desire to stand out from the rest of the team or participants.
MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS
Mental health issues are a growing concern in the United States. Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and inability to concentrate are some of the most common complaints that doctors hear from patients. This may plunge the patient into a spiral of medication, frustration, and deepening symptoms. Participation in sports helps to release the body’s natural chemicals that offer the individual relief from symptoms without the potential harm from dependence on medications.
Because of improved blood flow, concentration as well as critical thinking may be enhanced. Improved school work as well as memory retention has shown to increase in those who participate in sports of any kind. Adults report improved work abilities and older adults appear to be less susceptible to memory loss. Participating in groups or teams increases the level of contentment and lowers the level of loneliness for many people, no matter what age they are.
Educators are learning that from preschool onward, periodic “brain breaks” are helpful. During those 5 or 10-minute breaks, children and educators get up and move around. They may sing silly songs with movements, dance, march around the room, or simply jump up and down. Anything that gives their brains a chance to “refresh” or “reboot” for the next learning. Educators who incorporate this time into their teaching find that students learn more, and retain what they have learned at a higher rate than those who do not use the technique in the classroom.
The same holds true for workplace home, or retirement facilities. Taking a break every hour or so, walking or doing some kind of physical activity, will enhance the day and lift the individual’s mood. More business and living facilities are offering space for active “play” during the workday, acknowledging that employees and residents are more relaxed, content, and productive because of these activities.
Research has shown that awareness and implementation of adaptive activities as well as sports are of great value to those who may not be able to participate otherwise. Moving any part of the body will help all of the body and mind to become healthier. Strengthening exercise and sports activities have the potential to improve self-confidence and mood. Good instruction and partnering with others will aid in focusing on what the individual is able to do, lifting the mood away from what they may believe they cannot do.
No matter who, or what age, or what ability, raising self-confidence and self-esteem is important for everyone. One last observation is that studies have shown where recovering addicts are actively involved in exercise and sports, the desire for the addictive substance or activity decreases. This finding is significant and, in many places, has changed the way that addicts receive treatment, care, and counseling.
HOW TO BEGIN
Starting with even 5 minutes a day and working up to 15 minutes (or more) each day, will produce good results no matter the age or ability of the individual. Participating in team sports will require preparation. Beginning with an exercise regimen, working with a competent coach, and making a commitment to involvement and improvement will be of great value. The pursuit of better health, physically and mentally, will take time. Patience and determination, as well as companions to make the work more fun, may result in long-term involvement and life-time improvement. Get moving and get healthy.