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Elle Paula

Elle Paula has a Bachelor of Science in nutrition from Framingham State College and a certificate in holistic nutrition from the American College of Healthcare Sciences. She is also a licensed aesthetician with advanced training in skincare and makeup. She plans to continue on with her education, complete a master's degree program in nutrition and, ultimately, become a registered dietitian.

A 2006 report published in "Adolescence" presents data showing that participation in sports increased both emotional and behavioral well-being in adolescents. Increased well-being can lead to higher self-esteem and confidence, which results in better overall performance. Children involved in sports tend to do better academically (as reflected by higher grades), and they report higher levels of social contentment. In addition, they are less likely to engage in risky and destructive behavior patterns.

Organized sports require children to work together to achieve a common goal. Through this process, children develop social and leadership skills and learn the value of teamwork. Children involved in sports generally have stronger peer relationships and a better understanding of peers from different backgrounds. With this higher level of social support also comes a higher level of resilience.

Sports give children and youth an opportunity to interact with adults in valuable and positive ways, fostering closer relationships with adults. This effect is especially great when children do not have the benefit of positive adult relationships at home; for children who do, participating in sports can lead to more of a sense of attachment with family and more frequent interactions with parents.

While most psychological effects of sports on children and youth are positive, there can be drawbacks. If the pressure to win is overemphasized or the expectations of parents or coaches become too great, kids may experience psychological stress. Stress can cause a decrease in the enjoyment of engaging in sports, and it can also cause anxiety, headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, disruptions in sleep, muscle pains and depression. To diminish the risk of these negative effects, the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance recommends minimizing the emphasis on winning and instead focusing on developing specific skill sets.

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Psychological Effects of Sports on Children and Youth

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According to ESPN.com, approximately 21.5 million American children between the ages of six and 17 are involved in a team sport. Kids may get involved in sports for fun or to develop specific athletic skills. They may get involved because their parents decide it's time to put down the remote and pick up that bat.

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Sports Psychology - Benefits Of Psychology In Sports

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Sports psychologists may be most valuable for their ability to alleviate the stress of many athletes, many of whom feel enormous pressure to perform and succeed, especially at professional levels. However, psychologists can work in all areas of sports, from the high school level to the professional level, and the application of sports psychology can be valuable in any athletic situation.

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8 Psychological Benefits Of Sport Participation

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Sports are often promoted for physical health, but sports have often proven to be very influential in changing a person's mental health.

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Overview

You already know that sports are beneficial for your physical health. But there's more good news. In recent years, research has also found that sport participation can positively affect your mental health. Here's how.

Improve mood

1. Sports improve your mood

Want a burst of happiness and relaxation? Get involved in a physical activity. Whether you are playing sports, working out at a gym, or taking a brisk walk, physical activity triggers brain chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. Team sports in particular provide a chance to unwind and engage in a satisfying challenge that improves your fitness. They also provide social benefits by allowing you to connect with teammates and friends in a recreational setting.

Concentration

2. Sports improve your concentration

Reduce stress

3. Sports reduce stress and depression

Sleep

4. Sports improve sleep habits

Sports and other forms of physical activity improve the quality of sleep. They do this by helping you fall asleep faster and deepening your sleep. Sleeping better can improve your mental outlook the next day, as well as improve your mood. Just be careful not to engage in sports too late in the day. Evening practices within a few hours of bedtime may leave you too energized to sleep.

Healthy weight

5. Sports help you maintain a healthy weight

Confidence

6. Sports boost your self-confidence

The regular exercise that comes with playing sports can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem. As your strength, skills, and stamina increase through playing sports, your self-image will improve as well. With the renewed vigor and energy that comes from physical activity, you may be more likely to succeed in tasks off the playing field as well as on it.

Leadership

7. Sports have been linked to leadership traits

Benefits for kids

Benefits for children

Sports can benefit children in many of the same ways that they benefit adults. The biggest difference is that when children start participating in sports at a young age, they are far more likely to stay active as they grow older. The same source suggests that participating in a team sport improves academic performance and results in more after-school participation.

Keep in mind

What to keep in mind

Some popular team sports, including American football and ice hockey, commonly result in injuries. Frequently reported sports injuries include sprains, contusions, and broken limbs. Most sports injuries will result in a complete recovery if there is proper medical attention. However, some injuries, such as brain trauma and concussion, can cause permanent, lifelong damage to the athlete.

Concussions have gotten more attention from the sports community in recent years as their occurrence has increased. The CDC has specific guidelines about how to avoid and recover from concussions related to sports. Repeated head trauma can completely reverse the benefits of sports participation, leading to depression, reduced cognitive function, and suicidal tendencies.

Exercise-induced asthma is another condition reported by many athletes. If you are practicing a sport several times a week and begin to develop asthma symptoms, it's important to pay attention. Ask your doctor or a training specialist about breathing exercises and practice them. They may help you avoid developing chronic asthma. Your doctor may suggest taking medications prior to exercise to help reduce asthma symptoms as well.

Bottom line

Bottom line

The pros of participating in sports are plentiful - from the advantages they provide to young children, to the proven link to mental health and happiness, and of course the endorphins they trigger. There is no shortage of reasons to find a sport to get involved in. Pick one and get moving!

Speak to your doctor before beginning any sports activity. Make sure that your heart is healthy enough for strenuous exercise. Keep in mind the possibility of serious injury and exercise-induced asthma. Though there are hazards to participating in sports, there are some that are safer than others. If you are worried about injury, consider a low-impact sport such as swimming.

Article Resources

Blazek, A. D., Nam, J., Gupta R., Pradhan, M., Perera, P., Weisleder, N. L., ... Agarwal, S. (2016, February) Exercise-driven metabolic pathways in healthy cartilage. Osteoarthritis Cartilage, S1063-4584(16), 01025-6. Retrieved fromhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26924420

Concussions: Recovery. (2015, May 29). Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/return_to_sports.html

Dobosz, R. P., & Beaty, L. A. (1999). The relationship between athletic participation and high school students' leadership ability. Adolescence, 34(133), 215-20. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10234379

Lawlor, D. A., & Hopker, S. W. (2001, March 31). The effectiveness of exercise as an intervention in controlled trials and meta-regression analysis of randomised the management of depression: Systematic review. BMJ, 322, 763. Retrieved from http://www.bmj.com/content/322/7289/763.full

Rosewater, A. (2010, May). Playing well: Organized sports and the health of children and youth. Retrieved from http://www.afterschoolnetwork.org/sites/main/files/file-attachments/organized_sports_web.pdf

Silva, D., & Moreira, A. (2015, June 22). The role of sports and exercise in allergic disease: Drawbacks and benefits. Expert Review of Clinical Immunology, 11(9). Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26099040

Taliaferro, L. A., Rienzo, B. A., Miller, M. D., Pigg, R. M., & Dodd, V. J. (2008, October). High school youth and suicide risk: Exploring protection afforded through physical activity and sport participation. Journal of School Health, 78(10), 545-553. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18808474

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You already know that sports are beneficial for your physical health. But there's more good news. In recent years, research has also found that sport participation can positively affect your mental health. Here's how. Improve mood Want a burst of happiness and relaxation? Get involved in a physical activity.

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Children need positive role models to develop personality traits and build critical relationship skills. This sample psychology essay shows how team sports impact children's maturity and friendships. This type of document would be likely be found on a parenting website or as an essay assignment in a college course.

Team sports and individual relationships

Sports undoubtedly have a huge impact on today's society. Countless people, across all races, ages, genders, and socioeconomic statuses, participate in sports. Schools and recreation centers provide plenty of opportunity for organized sports, while millions of others play recreationally outside of such institutions.

In addition, professional sports such as the National Hockey League (NHL), Major League Baseball (MLB), and National Football League (NFL) continue to be a beloved pastime as life-long fans follow every move their team makes; millions tune into sports games on television and radio, and an immeasurable number of kids wear their favorite player's jersey or tape their poster to a wall.

People tend to glorify sports and those who play them, which surely contributes to many kids having dreams of playing sports professionally. The popularity of sports continues to be strong, especially in regards to youth sports. 45 million children and adolescents in the United States participate in youth sports and three-quarters of American families with school-age children have at least one child who participates in organized sports (Merkel 2013).

Benefits of sports participation

Many discuss the benefits of sports and participation in them, both for individuals and community, but are there negative effects as well? In regards to youth sports, a lack of scientific evidence in the structure of rules, regulations, and guidelines for these sports presents the possibility for negative effects, while some parameters for safety lack even basic common sense. People often hear about the positive emotional and mental benefits sports have, but there can be negative effects as well, in addition to negative societal effects. Whether there are more negative effects or positive, the impact sports have on society as a whole is undeniable.

Preventing childhood obesity with physical activity

There are several positive effects that sports can have, but the most easily perceived one is that they foster physical activity and energy expenditure. A recent study indicated that only 42% of elementary school children undertake the recommended amount of psychical activity a day, while only 8% of adolescents do the same (Merkel 2013).

Research proves that childhood obesity can lead to adulthood obesity and it is estimated that one-third of children born after the year 2000 will encounter some form of diabetes in their lives. Participation in organized sports has been shown to break the cycle of an unhealthy lifestyle and inactivity by improving caloric expenditure, reducing mindless snacking, and increasing the time spent away from entertainment media (Nauert 2010).

In addition, sports provide a venue for children to learn, practice, and develop their gross motor skills. The Center for Disease Control found there to be a positive correlation between students who participate in high levels of physical activity and improved academic achievement, decreased risk of heart disease and diabetes, improved weight control, and less psychological dysfunction; oppositely, children who are obese can often experience a diminished quality of life, difficulties learning, decreased self-confidence, and social discrimination (Tysoe 2014). The physical activity required for organized sports undoubtedly has a positive effect.

Negating high-risk behaviors with team sports

Another positive effect of sports on society is that it seems to ward off high-risk health-related behaviors. In 2000, a study was found that athletes were more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and less likely to engage in consuming unhealthy tobacco products or illicit-drugs than non-athletes, though the frequency of binge-drinking remained consistent (Merkel 2013). Male athletes were found to be less likely than their nonathletic counterparts to carry a weapon or sniff glue. Sports have proven to curb this type of negative behavior and encourage positive, healthy behavior instead.

Studies also indicate that sports play an important role in the lives of girls and women. Physically active girls experience advantages in terms of health and overall well-being. It is imperative to promote exercise in females because the majority of girls do not partake in the recommended level of daily physical activity. Women who are physically active experience a reduced risk for breast cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and obesity.

Female athletes who benefit from sporting activities

Furthermore, girls who participate in organized sports help lower rates of teen pregnancy, unprotected sexual intercourse, smoking, drug-use, and suicide than girls who partake in less physical activity (Maddox 2010). These girls are also less likely to experience depression and more likely to achieve high academic goals and improved self-confidence.

Female athletes were shown to have an increased sense of well-being, belonging, and a feeling of purpose. It was found in 2007 that women who played sports in high school were 73% more likely to earn a college degree within six years of graduating high school than women who did not play sports ("Psychological and Social Benefits of Playing True Sport"). This was true even with students who were facing socioeconomic challenges to obtaining their degree.

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Mental and emotional health benefits linked to team sports

There is research to suggest that participating in organized sports reduces suicidal thoughts and tendencies in teenagers. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death in adolescents and athletic activity holds many positive psychological benefits. The Centers for Disease Control did a survey in 2005 that demonstrated that those who participate in frequent vigorous physical activity experienced reduced feelings of hopelessness and suicidal tendencies (Tysoe 2014).

The benefits of exercise also include social support and acceptance as part of a team. Athletes who report a strong social support system shown to be more resilient to the negative processes that push individuals to suicide. Students who participated in sports showed more psychosocial benefits compared with those who were in non-physical extracurricular activities (Nauert 2010). Students also demonstrated improved time management, goal-setting, emotional control, collaboration, and intellect. Sports undoubtedly have an effect on participants' self-esteem and overall emotional and physical well-being.

Sports impact on economic well-being

Sports have been proven to improve social capital, as well. In longitudinal studies, it was proven that men at age 32 who played sports in high school were paid 31% higher wages than men who had not ("Psychological and Social Benefits of Playing True Sport"). As a result of athletic competition, people who have a sports background are often more likely to seek achievement in the workforce.

It has also been proven that participation in sports can have positive effects on community. Research suggests that the longer a young person plays a sport, the greater their attachment to their community. Students who participated in sports were shown to be more likely to register to vote and be invested in their local news ("Psychological and Social Benefits of Playing True Sport"). Youth sports participation is also positively related to adult involvement in community activities.

Negative effects of team sports

One of the negative effects of team sports on society is the pressure it places on individuals to succeed. In the past couple of decades, there has been a stark increase in specialization in youth sports. Many young athletes now choose to participate in a single sport year-round. Often times, these athletes start very young and have infrequent breaks or rest. This kind of concentration leads to an increased risk of sport-related injuries, isolation from their peers, attrition, burnout, and psychological problems (Merkel 2013).

Other antisocial behaviors can be caused by early sports specialization include negative peer interaction, social isolation, and lack of cooperation skills. Today, there is an increased pressure for early sports specialization to maximize the child's athletic skills for future gain by family, community, schools, and society. The kind of physical and psychological pressure imposed upon the child for this purpose, though, is not worth the outcome. Unfortunately, only 2% of young athletes will reach the highest sporting level (Merkel 2013).

Conclusion

It cannot be denied that team sports have positive effects on society. They can help improve the mental and physical well-being of students and other athletes, it promotes a sense of community pride, encourages valuable character traits, and can have positive long-term effects on those who participate in them. However, the negative effects cannot be denied either, making this a rich topic for debate and argumentative essays. The pressure to succeed in athletics can lead to adverse physical and mental effects on those it is imposed on and can negatively impact the economy. Regardless of the positivity or negativity of team sports, their impact and popularity in society remain extremely prevalent today.

Works Cited

Coates, Dennis. "The Negative Economic Effects Of Sports Franchises." The Negative Economic Effects Of Sports Franchises. University of Maryland, 2000. Web. 21 Oct. 2015.

Merkel, Donna L. "Youth Sport: Positive and Negative Impact on Young Athletes." Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine 4 (2013): 151-160. PMC. Web. 20 Oct. 2015.

Maddox, Theresa. "How Do Sports Affect High School Athletes in a Positive Way? The Classroom. Synonym.com, 2010. Web. 21 Oct. 2015.

Nauert, Rick. "Physical Activity Helps Improve Social Skills." Psych Central News. PsychCentral, 15 Mar. 2010. Web. 21 Oct. 2015.

"Psychological and Social Benefits of Playing True Sport". TrueSport. USADA, 2012. Web. 21 Oct. 2015.

Tysoe, Kyle. The Positive Impact of Sport on Youth (n.d.): n. pag. Neumann University. Neumann University, 2014. Web. 21 Oct. 2015.

Willett, Kaitlin. "Playing Sports Can Have Negative Effect | TheGazette." The Gazette. The Gazette, 2 Dec. 2014. Web. 21 Oct. 2015.

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Children need positive role models to develop personality traits and build critical relationship skills. This sample psychology essay shows how team sports impact children's maturity and friendships. This type of document would be likely be found on a parenting website or as an essay assignment in a college course.

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From education to community safety, sport has a positive social impact

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Cheyenne Ellis
When many people decide to "get fit," they assume it involves rigorous activity. But you don't have to spend hours in a gym to be physically active. People can get in shape by performing everyday activities in the home. Every time you and your child throw a softball, swim a lap, climb a flight of stairs, walk to the store, or carry packages, your health and fitness levels are improving.

When someone is physically fit, she feels and looks better, and she stays healthier. The earlier a child starts getting in shape, the more she'll reduce her risk of numerous illnesses. Here are some of the benefits that physical activity offers your child:

1. It strengthens the heart. The heart is a muscle. Like other muscles, its performance improves when it's regularly challenged by exercise. The heart responds to exercise by becoming stronger and more efficient. Strengthening the heart muscle can help ward off heart disease -- the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services -- even in early childhood.

2. It helps keep arteries and veins clear. Exercise reduces the amount of harmful cholesterol and fats in a person's blood. It increases the flexibility of the walls of blood vessels, and helps to lower blood pressure. This can reduce a person's risk for heart attack and stroke.

3. It strengthens the lungs. Working hard increases lung capacity, and their efficiency in moving air in and out of the body. As a result, more oxygen is drawn into the body and more carbon dioxide and other waste gases are expelled. Regular exercise helps prevent the decline in oxygen intake that occurs naturally with age or as a result of inactivity.

4. It reduces blood sugar levels. Exercise prevents sugar from accumulating in the blood by triggering muscles to take up more glucose from the bloodstream and use it for energy. This can reduce a person's risk of developing diabetes.

5. It controls weight. When a person is sedentary, he tends to be taking in more calories than are needed. These unused calories accumulate as fat. A person who is physically active may have a deficit of calories, which takes fat away and lowers weight. Lowered weight is good for the heart and can be beneficial in people with diabetes.

6. It strengthens bones. Just as muscles grow stronger when physically stressed, bones also respond by getting stronger. Exercise increases bone density, which helps prevent osteoporosis, a condition in which bones lose density, weaken, and become porous and fragile.

7. It helps prevent cancer. People who exercise regularly have lower incidences of cancer. The cancers most affected include colon, prostate, uterine, and breast cancers.

8. It regulates blood pressure. Exercise has been shown to reduce stress levels. As the levels of stress in a person's body subsides, his blood pressure and his risk for heart disease decline.

9. It improves energy levels. Regular exercise often makes people feel more energetic, allows them to be more active, and reduces the likelihood that they'll tire during the day.

10. It enhances emotional well-being. Most people report that they feel calm and have a sense of well-being after they exercise. Exercise, according to one theory, releases beta-endorphin, a natural substance in the body that is hundreds of times more potent than morphine. Another theory points to serotonin as the cause of the exercise high. Increased levels of serotonin in the central nervous system are associated with feelings of well-being, heightening of appetite, and lessening of mental depression. The weight loss that accompanies exercise can also cause people to feel better about themselves.
Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; American Medical Association; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Reviewed 2/02 by Jane Forester, MD
All content here, including advice from doctors and other health professionals, should be considered as opinion only. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

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When many people decide to "get fit," they assume it involves rigorous activity. But you don't have to spend hours in a gym to be physically active. People can get in shape by performing everyday activities in the home.

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Facts: Sports Activity and Children | Project Play

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Participation in sports by children and adolescents is associated with a range of documented physical, emotional, social, educational, and other benefits that can last into adulthood. But increasingly, many young people opt out of a sustained experience, while others are locked out due to a lack of resources or access to community programs. Health and other needs go unmet.

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Sports Benefit Girls In Many Ways | MomsTeam

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Sports benefit girls in many ways, from better health to better grades to better careers.

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Outdoor Sport Advantages - Benefits of Outdoor Exercises

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Here are the top benefits why you should consider outdoor exercise for your fitness. Outdoor Sports are very important as people who are active in sports are generally healthier and much more alert.

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A secondary school revision resource for GCSE PE looking at the key benefits of exercise and good general health and fitness levels.

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Playing sports offers children more than just physical benefits. Sports typically help kids academically and socially as well. The benefits are the same whether or not your child actually excels at the sport. Although if they are really good they will probably want to continue playing when they are older. If your child isn't good enough to play competitively on a school team try signing them up for a city league or encourage them to just go shoot some hoops with their friends or church group. Read on for ten ways playing sports and can benefit your child.

10 Ways Sports Can Benefit Your Child

1. Playing sports is fun. It gives your child something to do and a group to belong to. They have a group of friends that has the same goals and interests.

2. Research has found that kids that play sports, especially girls, are more likely to have a positive body image and higher self-esteem. They also are less likely to be overweight.

3. Kids involved in sports are less likely to take drugs or smoke because they realize the impact that these destructive activities can have upon their performance. Girls who play sports are also less likely to become pregnant.

4. Physical activities are a good way to relieve stress and reduce depression.

5. Sports help kids develop discipline. They learn to set goals and then work to achieve those goals. They learn that by working hard they can accomplish the things that they want to in their lives.

6. Kids who play sports quickly learn that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. They learn to be a good sport in both situations. It also helps them learn to deal with disappointment and go on.

7. Statistics show that kids who are involved in sports while in high school are more likely to experience academic success and graduate from high school.

8. Sports help develop teamwork and leadership skills. Kids quickly learn that they have to work together as a team to win the game.

9. Motor skills, strategic thinking, and even math skills are learned by playing sports. Students develop strategic thinking as they figure out plays and the best way to get around a player or score a goal. Math skills are used as they calculate scores and stats.

10. Regular exercise increases quality of life. Children who exercise are more likely to continue the practice into adulthood.

Whatever way you look at it sports benefits your child.

See related blog:
Kid Fitness: A Guide for Physical Activity

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Playing sports offers children more than just physical benefits. Sports typically help kids academically and socially as well. The benefits are the same whether or not your child actually excels at the sport. Although if they are really good they will probably want to continue playing when they are older.

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You already know that sports are beneficial for your physical health. But there's more good news. In recent years, research has also found that sport participation can positively affect your mental health. Here's how.

Share on Pinterest

Want a burst of happiness and relaxation? Get involved in a physical activity. Whether you are playing sports, working out at a gym, or taking a brisk walk, physical activity triggers brain chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. Team sports in particular provide a chance to unwind and engage in a satisfying challenge that improves your fitness. They also provide social benefits by allowing you to connect with teammates and friends in a recreational setting.

Share on Pinterest

Regular physical activity helps keep your key mental skills sharp as you age. This includes critical thinking, learning, and using good judgment. has shown that doing a mix of aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities is especially helpful. Participating in this kind of activity three to five times a week for at least 30 minutes can provide these mental health benefits.

When you are physically active, your mind is distracted from daily stressors. This can help you avoid getting bogged down by negative thoughts. Exercise reduces the levels of stress hormones in your body. At the same time, it stimulates production of endorphins. These are natural mood lifters that can keep stress and depression at bay. Endorphins may even leave you feeling more relaxed and optimistic after a hard workout. Experts agree that more quality research is needed to determine the relationship between sports and depression.

Sports and other forms of physical activity improve the quality of sleep. They do this by helping you fall asleep faster and deepening your sleep. Sleeping better can improve your mental outlook the next day, as well as improve your mood. Just be careful not to engage in sports too late in the day. Evening practices within a few hours of bedtime may leave you too energized to sleep.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a healthy way to maintain weight. Individual sports, such as running, cycling, and weightlifting, are all particularly effective ways to burn calories and/or build muscle. Staying within a recommended weight range reduces the likelihood of developing diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension.

The regular exercise that comes with playing sports can boost your confidence and improve your self-esteem. As your strength, skills, and stamina increase through playing sports, your self-image will improve as well. With the renewed vigor and energy that comes from physical activity, you may be more likely to succeed in tasks off the playing field as well as on it.

Team sports such as soccer, baseball, and basketball are breeding grounds for leadership traits. Studies done in high schools reveal a correlation between sports participation and leadership qualities. Because of the opportunity to train, try, win, or lose together, people involved in sports are naturally more inclined to adopt a "team mindset" in the workplace and in social situations. The team mindset leads to strong leadership qualities over time.

Sports can benefit children in many of the same ways that they benefit adults. The biggest difference is that when children start participating in sports at a young age, they are far more likely to stay active as they grow older. The same source suggests that participating in a team sport improves academic performance and results in more after-school participation.

Some popular team sports, including American football and ice hockey, commonly result in injuries. Frequently reported sports injuries include sprains, contusions, and broken limbs. Most sports injuries will result in a complete recovery if there is proper medical attention. However, some injuries, such as brain trauma and concussion, can cause permanent, lifelong damage to the athlete.

Concussions have gotten more attention from the sports community in recent years as their occurrence has increased. The has specific guidelines about how to avoid and recover from concussions related to sports. Repeated head trauma can completely reverse the benefits of sports participation, leading to depression, reduced cognitive function, and suicidal tendencies.

Exercise-induced asthma is another condition reported by many athletes. If you are practicing a sport several times a week and begin to develop asthma symptoms, it's important to pay attention. Ask your doctor or a training specialist about breathing exercises and practice them. They may help you avoid developing chronic asthma. Your doctor may suggest taking medications prior to exercise to help reduce asthma symptoms as well.

The pros of participating in sports are plentiful - from the advantages they provide to young children, to the proven link to mental health and happiness, and of course the endorphins they trigger. There is no shortage of reasons to find a sport to get involved in. Pick one and get moving!

Speak to your doctor before beginning any sports activity. Make sure that your heart is healthy enough for strenuous exercise. Keep in mind the possibility of serious injury and exercise-induced asthma. Though there are hazards to participating in sports, there are some that are safer than others. If you are worried about injury, consider a low-impact sport such as swimming.

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You already know that sports are beneficial for your physical health. But there's more good news. In recent years, research has also found that sport participation can positively affect your mental health. Here's how. Want a burst of happiness and relaxation? Get involved in a physical activity.

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Exercise is good for everyone, but it also has important benefits for people with .

Seizures during sports activity are rare, and exercise may benefit those with epilepsy, but physicians, coaches, and parents should know what to do if a occurs. Most sports activities are acceptable as long as people avoid overexertion, dehydration, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Striking a safe balance between the epilepsy, its treatment, and appropriate physical activity recommendations can bring people important health benefits.

Exercise and Epilepsy
Medications and Exercise
Sports to undertake with caution
Returning to sport after a seizure
Tips when playing sport

Exercise and epilepsy

People with epilepsy and their families are commonly concerned about seizures during exercise. Fear often results in overprotection, feelings of isolation, and needless activity restrictions. So an understanding of how exercise affects both epilepsy and seizures is important.

Seizures during exercise are rare. If seizures occur, it is most likely after the exercise (15 minutes to 3 hours after exercise). Very occasionally, people can have seizures that are triggered by exercise.

Epilepsy may improve with exercise. Although the reasons are unclear, studies demonstrate that abnormalities on decrease during exercise.

Increased and awareness needed during exercise may be a reason for the improvement. One study speculated that this increased mental concentration may reduce seizure frequency. How increased awareness might protect against seizures is unknown.

One study showed that physical exercise had no harmful effects for people with epilepsy, and a considerable proportion of people (36%) claimed that regular exercise contributed to better seizure control. However, in approximately 10% of people, exercise appeared to precipitate seizures, and this particularly affected people with partial epilepsy.

Overall fitness and a feeling of well-being have been shown to help reduce seizure frequency. People feel better and improve their seizure control with regular exercise. One report suggests that exercise improves self-esteem and social integration regardless of seizure control. It has also been shown that regular exercise reduces the number of overall health complaints, such as muscle pains, sleep problems, depression and fatigue.

Medications and exercise

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the most common treatment for epilepsy and seizures, but most have side effects that cause fatigue and tiredness, which is a problem for active people. Other side effects--blurred or double vision, concentration difficulty, and impaired coordination--can also influence sports performance.

Some medications can contribute to poor physical fitness. Valproic acid and lamotrigine may cause weight gain, but a regular exercise program may cancel this effect. Antiepileptic drug selection must consider individual concerns.

Physical training appears to affect blood levels of certain AEDs. Thus, blood AED levels of people who have regular exercise programs should be monitored, especially in the first few months of training. Additionally, athletes who have epilepsy should avoid anabolic steroids because they may alter AED blood levels.

For people who have had surgery for epilepsy, a rule of thumb for returning to exercise is to start gradually and avoid contact sports for 12 months. Preventing head trauma is essential, because the skull takes a long time to heal. Likewise, for people who have had vagus nerve stimulation, neck protection is essential to prevent damage to the generator pack and injury to the nerve.

Sports to undertake with caution

While we recommend leading a normal life and not isolating yourself, it is important to consider your safety and the safety of others if you are thinking of participating in any of the below sports, particularly if your seizures aren't fully controlled.

Boxing

Full-contact karate

Solo hang gliding

Solo parachuting

Unsupervised mountain climbing

Aviation sports

Gymnastics (parallel bars, uneven bars)

Horseback riding

Ice hockey, ice skating

Motor sports

Mountain climbing

Scuba diving

Unsupervised downhill skiing

Unsupervised sailing

Unsupervised water sports and swimming

Waterskiing

Wind surfing

Returning to sport after a having a seizure

A common question is how soon can someone return to play after a seizure?

After a person's very first seizure, a thorough neurologic assessment is needed. If the seizure was provoked by another such as metabolic disorder, alcohol, infection, tumor, or abscess, the person can return to play after treatment of that particular .

If seizures have an unknown cause, limitations will depend on how well seizures are controlled. There is no specific waiting period before return to physical activity. Common sense and sound judgment should prevail.

Tips when playing sport

Wear the right protection during contact sports or physical activity, eg. helmet

If it is possible a seizure may occur, wear a medical alert bracelet, so people can easily identify you have epilepsy and don't over-react

Tell the coach and possibly teammates that you have epilepsy

Ask the doctor whether certain sports are appropriate for you

Keep yourself well hydrated and drink or snack on something with sugar in it

DON'T continue exercising if you feel faint, lightheaded, , or dehydrated

DON'T overexert yourself, know your limits

DON'T take anabolic steroids as they can also alter the effects of medications

Reference:

- Physical Activity and Epilepsy. What Are the Rules? Joseph I. Sirven, MD; Jay Varrato, DO The Physician And Sportsmedicine - Vol 27 - No. 3 - March 1999

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Exercise is good for everyone, but it also has important benefits for people with . Seizures during sports activity are rare, and exercise may benefit those with epilepsy, but physicians, coaches, and parents should know what to do if a occurs. Most sports activities are acceptable as long as people avoid overexertion, dehydration, and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

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Having diabetes doesn't mean you can't play sports

Having diabetes needn't be a barrier to actively enjoying sports and exercise. Sportsmen and women with diabetes are common and have achieved some of the highest sporting awards available on the planet.

Famous UK diabetic sports achievers include Steve Redgrave, who has won numerous at the Olympics including his last gold medal which he won after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

Does sport help diabetes?

Sport, or exercise of some form, is recommended for all people with diabetes because it brings a range of health benefits such as improved sensitivity to insulin, improved.

Whether you take part in sport for competitive reasons, or purely for fun, it is a great way to stay healthy.

Sport guides

Exploring playing sport with diabetes:

Different sports have different effects on blood sugar

Different sports can affect the body in different ways. For example, brisk walking and continuous jogging will usually lead to a reliable lowering in blood glucose levels.

By contrast, sprinting and some upper body activities can initially lead to rises in blood sugar levels, which will come down if the exercise session is long enough.

By testing your blood glucose levels around exercise, you can learn how different sports and session lengths affect your blood sugar levels.

For information on how a range of sports effect blood sugar levels and how you can manage this, see the guides on individual sports in this section.

Hypos

You will need to watch out for hypos (too low blood sugar levels) if you are on any of the following diabetes medications:

If you take any of these medications then it is important to take precautions to prevent hypos occurring, this may include taking sufficient carbohydrate before or during exercise or reducing your dose of medication prior to exercise.

If you are considering changing your medication dose, ensure your doctor is happy for you to do this.

Test your blood glucose levels regularly around exercise to understand how exercise affects your sugar levels. An intense or relatively long session of sport can lead to lower blood glucose levels for up to 48 hours following exercise.

Performance

Having either too high or too low sugar levels can negatively effect your level of energy so it's best to maintain sugar levels in a target range.

People on insulin will usually have a good level of energy if sugar levels remain between 5 and 11 mmol/l.

People with type 2 diabetes may aim for a tighter window of blood sugar, if possible.

Your doctor can advise you on which levels to stay within when playing sport as the best range will depend on which medication (if any) you are on as well as any personal circumstances.

Children with diabetes and sport

Children participating in sport independently from their parents should prepare for know how to recognise the signs of symptoms of hypoglycemia and should always have glucose within easy access.

Physical education teachers should be aware that hypoglycemia is a risk and know how to treat a hypo should it occur.

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Having diabetes doesn't mean you can't play sports Having diabetes needn't be a barrier to actively enjoying sports and exercise. Sportsmen and women with diabetes are common and have achieved some of the highest sporting awards available on the planet.

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There is an overwhelming amount of scientific evidence on the positive effects of sport and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. The positive, direct effects of engaging in regular physical activity are particularly apparent in the prevention of several chronic diseases, including: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, obesity, depression and osteoporosis.
The Report from the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force on Sport for Development and Peace states that young people can benefit from physical activity as it contributes to developing healthy bones, efficient heart and lung function as well as improved motor skills and cognitive function. Physical activity can help to prevent hip fractures among women and reduce the effects of osteoporosis. Remaining physically active can enhance functional capacity among older people, and can help to maintain quality of life and independence.
Physical activity and psychosocial health
The WHO has estimated that "one in four patients visiting a health service has at least one mental, neurological or behavioural disorder, but most of these disorders are neither diagnosed nor treated". A number of studies have shown that exercise may play a therapeutic role in addressing a number of psychological disorders. Studies also show that exercise has a positive influence on depression. Physical self-worth and physical self-perception, including body image, has been linked to improved self-esteem. The evidence relating to health benefits of physical activity predominantly focuses on intra-personal factors such as physiological, cognitive and affective benefits, however, that does not exclude the social and inter-personal benefits of sport and physical activity which can also produce positive health effects in individuals and communities.
Sport and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle
A number of factors influence the way in which sport and physical activity impacts on health in different populations. Sport and physical activity in itself may not directly lead to benefits but, in combination with other factors, can promote healthy lifestyles. There is evidence to suggest that changes in the environment can have a significant impact on opportunities for participation and in addition, the conditions under which the activity is taking place can heavily impact on health outcomes. Elements that may be determinants on health include nutrition, intensity and type of physical activity, appropriate footwear and clothing, climate, injury, stress levels and sleep patterns.

Sport and physical activity can make a substantial contribution to the well-being of people in developing countries. Exercise, physical activity and sport have long been used in the treatment and rehabilitation of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Physical activity for individuals is a strong means for the prevention of diseases and for nations is a cost-effective method to improve public health across populations.

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Answer: There is an overwhelming amount of scientific evidence on the positive effects of sport and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. The positive, direct effects of engaging in regular physical activity are particularly apparent in the prevention of several chronic diseases, incl...

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Allowing your children to participate in youth sports is a fantastic way for children to explore and develop lifelong skills. Youth sports not only play an important role in exercise, but promotes mental and psychological advances as well. It is well-known that children who participate in sports are less likely to drop out of school, and become involved in drugs and alcohol activity, while they also excel in academic performances and sociability. Youth sports can be as simple as purchasing either this skate board or bike.
Click images below to purchase today.
Here are the Top 10 from Health Fitness Revolution and author of the book ReSYNC Your Life Samir Becic:

Physical development - Children who participate in sports develop stronger muscles and bones, and the stronger you are, the less likely you will suffer from physical injury. A New Zealand study conducted in 2006 suggested participating in physical exercise before and during the onset of puberty helps reach peak bone mass, enabling them to develop stronger muscles and bones that will be the foundation for future growth.

Aids in weight control - Several studies have shown that childhood obesity is a growing problem in our society. Playing sports, however, will keep children active and aid in the fight in combating this problem. Having a controlled weight leads to happier children and decreases the risk of diseases that comes from being overweight in their lifetimes, such as heart disease and diabetes.

Improves endurance: Participating in sports improves cardiovascular endurance. Increased cardiovascular health decreases the risk for heart disease which is the number one killer disease claiming almost 800,000 lives in 2011, according to the CDC. Having an increased endurance allows athletes to reach their full potential in sports but most importantly, will keep their heart healthy.

Builds character - Playing sports at a young age enables children to participate in social interactions and build skills such as teamwork, leadership, and responsibility as they learn to work with others to achieve a common goal. This type of setting allows children to develop and practice different mental and moral qualities they acquire from their surroundings on the field, at the school and at home.

Boosts self-esteem - Being part a of a team with similar goals will increase the child's value of their self. What they contribute to the team - whether it be in leadership positions or in fulfilling important roles - will ultimately contribute to the boost in their self-esteem and their confidence. There are numerous studies that support the impact of youth sports on self-esteem. In fact, one Swiss study found that adolescents who participated in sports clubs viewed their health and their body image positively.

Strengthens perseverance - Athletes are often placed in adverse situations on the field, both during game days and practices. During these high-pressure moments, the children learn to persevere through those challenges, and because there are so many of these moments in sports, the child will learn to quickly adapt to these situations and take them in stride. Practicing perseverance at a young age with this kind of adversity will lead to better coping skills, and critical thinking and application skills in life when they are met with bigger challenges.

Develop teamwork skills - Teamwork is a skill you are going use for years to come, so it is important to learn the basics early. Youth sports provide children important lessons in team dynamics. Everyone must work together to achieve their goals, and sports allow children to sort through each others strengths and weaknesses to decide what strategy works best for the team.

Teaches discipline - Playing sports require athletes to be disciplined in tactical, mental and physical aspects. In order to succeed in sports you must have self-restraint, and behave in a controlled and precise manner. Good discipline translates to life situations in order to achieve goals and reach their fullest potential.

Promotes healthy competition - While naysayers like to claim youth sports are becoming too competitive, it is inevitable that as they grow, children will face competition in school, the workplace and their personal lives, so they must learn how to interact in competitive environments. Participating in sports will teach children how good sportsmanship and that trying your hardest will often yield great results.

Provides guidance - As youths, children haven't experienced nor learned what adults have, and because of this, children require guidance to make the right decisions. While parents and guardians are the ultimate mentors, participating in youth sports also gives athletes the opportunity to meet positive people, such as coaches and parent volunteers, who will guide them as they grow. Some examples of mentors include coaches and parent volunteers. In a study conducted by Big Brothers Big Sisters, children are 52% less likely to skip school if they have a mentor and 46% less likely to use drugs. There are tons of things out there to distract the impressionable youth, but sports gives them focus and people to make sure they stay on track.

Despite which sport your youth decide to participate in be prepared by having him or her some protective gear in stock. Click the image below to purchase your youth's gear today.

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The Top 10 Health Benefits of Youth Sports

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Allowing your children to participate in youth sports is a fantastic way for children to explore and develop lifelong skills. Youth sports not only play an important role in exercise, but promotes mental and psychological advances as well. It is well-known that children who participate in sports are less likely to drop out of school, and ...

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Playing sports offers children more than just physical benefits. Sports typically help kids academically and socially as well. The benefits are the same whether or not your child actually excels at the sport. Although if they are really good they will probably want to continue playing when they are older. If your child isn't good enough to play competitively on a school team try signing them up for a city league or encourage them to just go shoot some hoops with their friends or church group. Read on for ten ways playing sports and can benefit your child.

10 Ways Sports Can Benefit Your Child

1. Playing sports is fun. It gives your child something to do and a group to belong to. They have a group of friends that has the same goals and interests.

2. Research has found that kids that play sports, especially girls, are more likely to have a positive body image and higher self-esteem. They also are less likely to be overweight.

3. Kids involved in sports are less likely to take drugs or smoke because they realize the impact that these destructive activities can have upon their performance. Girls who play sports are also less likely to become pregnant.

4. Physical activities are a good way to relieve stress and reduce depression.

5. Sports help kids develop discipline. They learn to set goals and then work to achieve those goals. They learn that by working hard they can accomplish the things that they want to in their lives.

6. Kids who play sports quickly learn that sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. They learn to be a good sport in both situations. It also helps them learn to deal with disappointment and go on.

7. Statistics show that kids who are involved in sports while in high school are more likely to experience academic success and graduate from high school.

8. Sports help develop teamwork and leadership skills. Kids quickly learn that they have to work together as a team to win the game.

9. Motor skills, strategic thinking, and even math skills are learned by playing sports. Students develop strategic thinking as they figure out plays and the best way to get around a player or score a goal. Math skills are used as they calculate scores and stats.

10. Regular exercise increases quality of life. Children who exercise are more likely to continue the practice into adulthood.

Whatever way you look at it sports benefits your child.

See related blog:
Kid Fitness: A Guide for Physical Activity

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Playing sports offers children more than just physical benefits. Sports typically help kids academically and socially as well. The benefits are the same whether or not your child actually excels at the sport. Although if they are really good they will probably want to continue playing when they are older.

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We have used the terms physical activity and exercise interchangeably here, as both will have beneficial effects on the body if done regularly.

Physical activity is the term used to describe any kind of everyday activity where the body's movement burns calories. Examples would be sweeping the yard, walking the dog, vacuuming, and walking upstairs.

Exercise is a form of physical activity. Exercise usually describes a pre-planned physical activity that involves a series of repetitive movements that are performed to strengthen or develop a particular part of the body, including the cardiovascular system. Examples of exercise would be playing tennis, running, cycling, walking, swimming or rowing.

1. Brain

Exercise has been shown to ease anxiety, improve mood and fight depression. It promotes the release of a mood-lifting brain chemical called serotonin and the release of endorphins, natural feel-good painkilling substances. Exercise also improves cognitive function (ability to process thoughts) and decreases the risk of dementia.

2. Skin

Moderate exercise stimulates circulation and so brings oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Sweating, which is increased by exercise, allows the body to excrete wastes via the surface of the skin.

3. Lungs

Regular exercise increases lung capacity and strengthens the respiratory muscles. Exercise also reduces risk of lung cancer.

4. Heart

Regular exercise strengthens and builds the heart muscle so it pumps more effectively.

Regular physical activity or exercise reduces your chance of getting heart disease.

5. Breasts

Regular exercise has been shown to reduce women's risk of developing breast cancer.

6. Immune system

Moderate exercise boosts the immune system, but over-exercising and frequent strenuous exercise dampen down the immune response.

7. Blood pressure

Regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and can help to lower blood pressure in those who already have high blood pressure.

8. Bloodstream

Regular exercise also increases the level of HDL-cholesterol ('good cholesterol') in your blood and reduces the level of LDL('bad')-cholesterol. This keeps your arteries clear of fatty deposits (plaque) made up of cholesterol and other substances. This reduces the risk of clots in the coronary arteries, which can lead to heart attack, and clots in the arteries supplying the brain, which can lead to stroke.

9. Diabetes

Regular exercise can prevent and help control type 2 diabetes. Exercise helps insulin to work better and also makes your cells more sensitive to the effects of insulin - two ways to improve how your body deals with sugar.

10. Colon

Regular exercise reduces the risk of colorectal (bowel) cancer, possibly by its effect of speeding up the movement of food through the bowels.

11. Reproductive organs

Regular moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise has been shown to improve both libido (sex drive or desire) and sexual performance. It can also improve fertility, although excessive amounts of exercise may suppress libido, and in women, if coupled with excessive weight loss may cause menstrual disturbances and infertility. Exercise also reduces the risk of prostate cancer and ovarian cancer.

12. Bones

Weight-bearing exercise (e.g. walking, stairclimbing, weightlifting) helps preserve bone mass and thus protects against osteoporosis.

13. Muscles

Exercise builds and strengthens muscles, which can protect the bones from injury, and support and protect joints affected by arthritis. Strong muscles also give stability and improve balance and coordination. Exercise also improves blood supply to the muscles and increases their capacity to use oxygen. Resistance training prevents the age-related loss of muscle mass known as sarcopenia.

14. Joints

Exercise lubricates the joints, and reduces joint pain and stiffness. It also helps people with arthritis by increasing flexibility and muscle strength.

15. Balance

Regular exercise and physical activity strengthen the muscles and improve balance and coordination, leading to fewer falls in the elderly.

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Physical activity benefits to your body - myDr.com.au

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We have used the terms physical activity and exercise interchangeably here, as both will have beneficial effects on the body if done regularly. Physical activity is the term used to describe any kind of everyday activity where the body's movement burns calories. Examples would be sweeping the yard, walking the dog, vacuuming, and walking upstairs.

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Positive Impact of Sports

Johnny is on the basketball team at his school. He attends practice every day and looks forward to his games. His participation and love of the game have positive effects that go far beyond improved basketball skills.

Participation in sports has a positive influence on many areas of life. Some of these benefits are obvious, and others might surprise you. Participation in sports can make you healthier, improve social skills, and support positive mental health. In this lesson, we will look at some benefits of participating in sports and see the influence it has had in Johnny's life.

Physical Benefits

The physical benefits of participating in a sport are probably the most obvious. Athletic training helps strengthen bodies, develops coordination, and promotes physical fitness. Through sports, youths learn physical fitness in a fun way that encourages healthy living habits. Once young athletes develop these habits, they are more likely to continue them throughout their lives. This is important since physical fitness helps combat major health issues such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

Even when it is not basketball season, Johnny runs to keep in shape. He knows that staying physically fit year-round helps him play better when basketball season arrives. Johnny has also learned what types of food provide him with the energy he needs to feel good. Playing basketball has provided Johnny with motivation to develop important habits of regular exercise and healthy eating.

Social Benefits

In addition to these physical benefits, many social benefits result from participation in sports. Participation in sports provides opportunities to learn teamwork. Playing by the rules and overcoming adversity helps youths learn qualities of good sportsmanship and personal responsibility. Time management and good organizational skills must be developed to achieve both athletic and academic success. These benefits transfer to everyday situations, providing social skills that allow you to succeed in the real world.

Johnny has a lot of homework to complete, but he knows that he is an important member of the team and needs to attend practice. They are learning a new offense in practice, and he doesn't want to let his teammates down. He knows that he has to manage his time efficiently during basketball season. Johnny attends practice and puts off plans to watch a movie with his friends later that night so he can get his homework done.

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social and emotional benefits of participating in sports - video & lesson transcript | study.com

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Physical, Social and Emotional Benefits of Participating in Sports - Video & Lesson Transcript | Study.com

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Johnny is on the basketball team at his school. He attends practice every day and looks forward to his games. His participation and love of the game have positive effects that go far beyond improved basketball skills. Participation in sports has a positive influence on many areas of life.

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Psychology of Sport | University of Salford, Manchester

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The BSc (Hons) Psychology of Sport is a brand new degree being launched in September 2017. It will be taught jointly by experienced staff from Psychology and Sports Science within the School of Health Sciences. Our degree provides an excellent...

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For example, ıt has been proven that doing sport reduces depression.

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How playing sports benefits your body ... and your brain - Leah Lagos and Jaspal Ricky Singh

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Angus Koolbreeze

Angus Koolbreeze has been a freelance writer since 2007. He has been published in a variety of venues, including "He Reigns Magazine" and online publications. Koolbreeze has a Master of Arts in English from Western Michigan University.

Although team sports can provide fun-filled memories that can last your child a lifetime, they are also a teaching tool for the development of important social skills. Sports can teach him to be competitive, yet fair and honest. Learning to combine competitiveness with integrity will help your child cultivate meaningful relationships as he progresses through school, as well as throughout his adult life.

By playing sports, your child learns that she does not work alone, but she's part of a group that must cooperate to achieve a common goal. As the American Academy of Pediatrics says, sports teach children such skills as following established rules for the sake of everyone. Indeed, these skills will help your child get along with people as she grows older, whether in her personal relationships or those she builds in the workplace.

Another effect of sports in the development of young children is the building of character. One aspect of character development is being able to honor a long-term commitment, whether it's to a team, to the choir at church or to schoolwork. This is a positive trait that will help him later in life as he enters the job market or cultivates a long-term relationship. By playing sports, he learns that he's part of a team that's counting on him to stand by them, through the good and bad times.

Yet another social skill that sports teach is that of being able to play fair. A game such as kickball, softball or baseball, for instance, will teach your child the value of waiting her turn. In softball, for instance, she will learn that she must wait for the coach to tell her it's her turn to bat. Before that point, she must wait and watch her teammates as they are at bat.

Another trait that will benefit your child as he matures, according to the Sports and Development website, is how to graciously accept a victory or defeat. Competitive sports will expose him to both. It will give him the opportunity to observe how not to be following a win. He will witness the ostracism faced by other children who brag to members of the losing team that they won. He will also learn that there are times when the opposing team will be better and will beat his squad.

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Social Effects of Sports on Young Children

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Although team sports can provide fun-filled memories that can last your child a lifetime, they are also a teaching tool for the development of important social skills. Sports can teach him to be competitive, yet fair and honest. Learning to combine competitiveness with integrity will help your child cultivate meaningful relationships as he...

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Sports are universal, and playing sports is a favorite activity and stress relief for many people around the world. It can provide us with enjoyment and may also freshen up our mind. However, playing sports is more than running, jumping, or kicking a ball on the field. Indulging in sports helps our body function smoothly and more efficiently.

Sports can help not only strengthens the body but also to connect and coordinate the neuromuscular connections between muscles to achieve full-body coordination. In addition to these physical benefits, the social interaction in sports combats depression, anxiety and helps create positive relationships, communities, and long term mental health in participants.

Health Benefits of Playing Sports

Let's have a look at the benefits of playing sports in detail.

May Lower The Risk of Heart Attack

Research published in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests that physical activity can help lower the risk of heart attacks. Playing sports may help with the stretching ability of the heart's ventricles thereby allowing the heart to pump more blood with each beat. When the heart can pump more blood with each beat, your heart becomes more efficient and effective.

May Manage & Prevent Diabetes

Research performed by the Human Movement Sciences Department, Old Dominion University, Virginia, USA, has concluded that playing sports may help in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.

May Aid in Weight Management

Obesity is a big issue faced by millions of people across the world. Over 55% of the adults in the US are obese, which is indirectly paving a way for chronic conditions. The American College of Sports Medicine says that this issue can be dealt with by indulging in sports or similar physical activities. In addition to this hunger was found to be suppressed by exercise in a study done by the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine. This study found that a hormone that induces hunger, ghrelin, might be lowered in participants who exercised.

May Lower Hypertension

Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, may result in a stroke or heart disease. The National Health Service, UK suggests that aside from diet management, sports and physical activities can be important to keep the blood pressure normal.

May Balance Cholesterol Levels

Playing sports can also help in maintaining lower cholesterol levels. A 2009 report revealed that a 90-minute soccer match decreased the triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels of the twenty-two professional players who participated in the study.

May Improve Blood Circulation

Blood circulation can get better when you start playing sports. The body remains well oxygenated and thus, it may remain more healthy and active. Apart from blood circulation, being physically active can also increase the hemoglobin count and the volume of blood.

May Increase Immunity

Regularly indulging in exercise and sports can make the body immune to many diseases that usually affect a person due to weak immunity. When a person exercises, the rate at which white blood cells reach every body part may increase significantly. Playing sports could increase sweat production and might also remove toxins.

May Train and Tone Muscles

Sports could be the most integrative, fun, and the best form of workout for muscles. Strong, toned muscles are always desirable and that's what you can get when you consistently play active sports such as soccer, tennis, jogging, racquetball, baseball, and kickball. Both the strength and endurance of muscles may also increase with time and consistency of engaging in sports.

May Make Your Bones Stronger

Playing sports may strengthen not only the muscles but also the bones in your body. Bones may get their strength from increasing bone density which happens as you continually 'load' the bones with high power and strength movements. For example, running while playing sports loads the bone with much more weight than simply walking. This can create an adaptation within the bone in response to the increased stress for the bone to grow denser to be able to withstand this increased loading in the future. When you consistently apply stress to the bone it might continue to strengthen and become denser.

Aging naturally can decrease bone density, which can result in osteoporosis if we do not have our bone density up in youth and middle age. Taking up sports can perhaps be one of the easiest ways to maintain bone density and strength for people of all ages.

May Help You Maintain a Positive Attitude

Sports can bring a positive attitude to your life if played healthily. It can refresh the mind and may help in developing a positive and fresh outlook on life. A 2018 special edition of the Journal of Sport and Health Science (JSHS) revealed that team sports can not just enhance positivity in individuals, but it can bring communities together and build them too.

May Help Boost Self-esteem

Playing any particular sport might help in building self-esteem. When one improves in any particular sport or skill, one may feel good about it.

May Help You Maintain Discipline

Discipline becomes a natural part of life when you start spending time playing sports. This is because sports can inspire people to live life by certain rules and regulations and move towards a positive end. Children who indulge in sports might feel healthier and can develop better and healthier relationships with other people because a positive, team-based outlook is instilled in them.

May Help Build Mutual Respect

Playing sports can build mutual respect for others as it includes playing opposite people but at the same time respecting them even if they have a negative attitude towards you.

May Increase a Sense of Calmness

Sports could train your mind to think calmly and find new strategies to deal with problems without getting too hyper.

May Encourage Teamwork

Playing sports might help you build good relationships with people from diverse backgrounds and traits. It encourages teamwork and thus helps in preparing you to work with different people harmoniously.

May Aid in Bettering Goal-Setting Skills

Goal setting means that every person needs to have an idea about what he/she wants, whether it is in a game or life. Sports may help in goal-setting and will improve performance levels in other areas of life.

Safety Tips

Play under Expert Supervision: Try playing sports under the supervision of experienced players in the beginning and take their advice on how to play the game without getting hurt.

Do Warm-up Exercises: These exercises help increase the elasticity of muscles, which prevents muscle injuries, cramps, and sprains.

Stay Hydrated: Athletes of all ages should begin their activities in a well-hydrated state to avoid a dip in performance as well as dehydration-related health conditions.

Acclimation in Hot and Humid Conditions: If you plan to play sports in the heat for longer than an hour and a half, it is a good idea to add a sports drink. Take breaks and drink plenty of fluids.

Avoid Playing on Rainy or Stormy Days: It is best to not play during severe weather conditions such as lightning.
Concussions: Make sure children wear helmets if cycling. If you have suffered a head injury, it is advisable to visit the doctor.

Cool-down Exercises: It is important to do gentle stretches and rest after playing any sport. The heart rate normalizes and the muscles relax.

Start small if you are a Senior Citizen: Older people should start with small sessions because the body tends to lose its muscle capacity with age. It is best to consult with a doctor and a trained expert before starting a new exercise regimen.

Obesity and exercise: Obese people should indulge in sports in a controlled manner as they are more susceptible to sports injuries.

Make Sports a Part of Your Lifestyle

Playing sports should not be limited to the field of your school, college, or community. Even when you're at home or working, sparing at least 30 minutes for any sport you love can be very helpful.

It is not advisable to only see sports as a strenuous activity that you are doing for the sake of health. Instead, take it as a hobby and enjoy it. Encourage your family members to be a part of your sport too. This will give a boost to the overall health of the family.

Activities such as cycling, swimming, running, and even walking are some of the physical activities that can be done daily. It must not be forgotten that playing sports alone will not give you a healthy body and mind. Many other factors such as nutritional intake, the stress levels in your life, or even the clothes or shoes that you're wearing must also be considered.

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Top 16 Benefits of Playing Sports | Organic Facts

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Sports are universal, and playing sports is a favorite activity and stress relief for many people around the world. It can provide us with enjoyment and may also freshen up our mind. However, playing sports is more than running, jumping, or kicking a ball on the field.

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What are the positive physical effects of playing sports?

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From pickup games in a driveway or backyard, through recreational leagues and all the way up to highly competitive leagues at the college and professional levels, millions of Americans play sports every year. Each athlete has his own reasons for playing a sport, be it the competition, socializing with other people or the glory he finds on the playing field. Another factor that drives many athletes is the effects on their health from playing sports. Depending on the sport and the athlete, there are both positive and negative effects on your health.

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Playing sports affects your mental and emotional health due to the physiological effects that exercise has on the body. Jasper Smits, director of the Anxiety Research and Treatment Program at Southern Methodist University, and Michael Otto, psychology professor at Boston University, analyzed the results of dozens of studies involving exercise and mental health, and concluded that exercise can help reduce depression and anxiety, and can be especially beneficial to people who lack access to traditional treatments, such as drugs or counseling. Smits and Otto recommend not only focusing on the long-term gains provided by physical activity, but also the immediate, short-term gains. According to Smits, "After just 25 minutes, your mood improves, you are less stressed, you have more energy -- and you'll be motivated to exercise again tomorrow. A bad mood is no longer a barrier to exercise; it is the very reason to exercise."

Physical Benefits

The physical benefits of playing sports are numerous. Exercise in general controls weight by burning calories, improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system, placing a lower strain on the heart, and increases an athlete's energy level while improving the quality of sleep. It also provides longer-term benefits, such as the reduced risk of diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes, reduces the level of body fat, improves the cholesterol makeup of the athlete's bloodstream and makes the bones and muscles stronger. The athlete also develops the physical skills needed to compete in a given sport, such as hitting a baseball or kicking a soccer ball.

Negative Effects

Despite all the benefits that can be gained, there are some drawbacks to playing sports. The competitive nature that drives most athletes, especially elite athletes, often leaves them prone to injury through overuse or overtraining, or by ignoring injury to play through the pain in order to help their team. Coaches can facilitate this behavior by ignoring the issue or by pushing an athlete to continue even when she is hurt. This attitude can be even more dangerous in a collision sport such as football or ice hockey, where concussions are a regular occurrence. An athlete who sustains a concussion -- which is the brain being bounced off the sharp ridges of the skull -- must fully recover from the concussion before practicing or playing again, or he puts himself at risk of sustaining an even worse concussion. Repeated head trauma causes chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disorder that can cause memory loss, confusion, poor judgment, aggression, depression and dementia. Boxers, football players and hockey players often suffer from the effects of CTE years after they retire.

Benefits of Team Sports

While athletes who play individual sports receive many of the same physical and mental benefits that athletes in team sports receive, there are additional benefits to participating in team sports. It provides you with a way to meet new people and expand your social network. Team sports provide you with a sense of camaraderie with your teammates, as you work together to achieve victory. Playing a team sport can be especially beneficial for children. It can help teach them to set aside their personal desires in order to help the team. They can also learn that hard work and perseverance can help them achieve their goals and dreams -- a valuable lesson that they can carry throughout life.

About the Author

Carson Barrett began writing professionally in 2009. He has been published on various websites. Barrett is currently attending Bucks County Community College, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in sports management.

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How Does Playing Sports Affect Your Health?

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From pickup games in a driveway or backyard, through recreational leagues and all the way up to highly competitive leagues at the college and professional levels, millions of Americans play sports every year. Each athlete has his own reasons for playing a sport, be it the competition, socializing with other people or ...

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How Does Playing Sports Affect Your Health? | Livestrong.com

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Sports and other physical activities have innumerable physical health benefits, including improved cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness, bone health, increased life expectancy, and coronary health.

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Although research interest on physical activity and health dates back to the 1950s, the breakthrough in the scientific evidence on health benefits of physical activity largely took place during the 1980s and 1990s. There is an overwhelming amount of scientific evidence on the positive effects of sport and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. The positive, direct effects of engaging in regular physical activity are particularly apparent in the prevention of several chronic diseases, including: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, obesity, depression and osteoporosis.
The Report from the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force on Sport for Development and Peace states that young people can benefit from physical activity as it contributes to developing healthy bones, efficient heart and lung function as well as improved motor skills and cognitive function. Physical activity can help to prevent hip fractures among women and reduce the effects of osteoporosis. Remaining physically active can enhance functional capacity among older people, and can help to maintain quality of life and independence.
Physical activity and psychosocial health
The WHO has estimated that "one in four patients visiting a health service has at least one mental, neurological or behavioural disorder, but most of these disorders are neither diagnosed nor treated". A number of studies have shown that exercise may play a therapeutic role in addressing a number of psychological disorders. Studies also show that exercise has a positive influence on depression. Physical self-worth and physical self-perception, including body image, has been linked to improved self-esteem. The evidence relating to health benefits of physical activity predominantly focuses on intra-personal factors such as physiological, cognitive and affective benefits, however, that does not exclude the social and inter-personal benefits of sport and physical activity which can also produce positive health effects in individuals and communities.
Sport and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle
A number of factors influence the way in which sport and physical activity impacts on health in different populations. Sport and physical activity in itself may not directly lead to benefits but, in combination with other factors, can promote healthy lifestyles. There is evidence to suggest that changes in the environment can have a significant impact on opportunities for participation and in addition, the conditions under which the activity is taking place can heavily impact on health outcomes. Elements that may be determinants on health include nutrition, intensity and type of physical activity, appropriate footwear and clothing, climate, injury, stress levels and sleep patterns.

Sport and physical activity can make a substantial contribution to the well-being of people in developing countries. Exercise, physical activity and sport have long been used in the treatment and rehabilitation of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Physical activity for individuals is a strong means for the prevention of diseases and for nations is a cost-effective method to improve public health across populations.

Image by Miguel A Amutio https://unsplash.com/photos/QDv-uBc-poY

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The health benefits of sport and physical activity | sportanddev

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Although research interest on physical activity and health dates back to the 1950s, the breakthrough in the scientific evidence on health benefits of physical activity largely took place during the 1980s and 1990s. There is an overwhelming amount of scientific evidence on the positive effects of sport and physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle.

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Susan Diranian

Susan Diranian is a writer for various online publications and magazines, specializing in relationships, health, fashion, beauty and fitness. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in nonfiction writing and editing.

More than 30 percent of American teens are overweight or at risk of being overweight, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Overweight teenagers may face a greater risk of developing health complications including diabetes and asthma, along with mental health ailments including depression and anxiety. Playing a sport helps teenagers maintain a healthier weight and boosts their cardiovascular system, lowers their blood pressure, improves their mood and helps them make healthier choices in life.

The Women's Sports Foundation reported in 2004 that sports help teen girls to perform well in school, develop a positive self-image and reduce their risk of developing an eating disorder. Because of this greater physical awareness, sports participation can reduce sexual risk in teen girls, including everything from teen pregnancy to abusing drugs or alcohol before sex. Resulting behaviors include an increased use of condoms and fewer sexual partners.

Playing a sport teaches teenagers many valuable life skills including leadership, the value of teamwork and cooperation. Athletic teens also learn how to handle stress and pressure, set goals and work hard to reach a goal. Playing a sport allows teenagers to build relationships with their coaches and peers. All of these experiences will help teenagers learn how to work with others as well as become easy to work with later in life, whether it's at home, at school or on the job.

Though sports participation may decrease risky behaviors in females, athletic males may have an increased risk of drinking, violence and abusing drugs. A 2009 study presented at the American Public Health Association's 137th Meeting and Exposition noted a correlation between teenage male athletes and risky behavior. Teen boys whose reputations are based on athletic ability, and those who receive preferential treatment, are particularly at risk. The study noted the importance of supporting teenage athletes yet cautioned against raising them to icon status.

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Sports help teenagers live a more active life -- thus reducing their risk of obesity, diabetes and other serious health complications - and athletics affect teens mentally, socially and psychologically. According to a 2010 West Virginia University study published in "Applied Research in Quality of Life," teenagers who play sports...