Although many people simply play sports out of passion, they may or may not be aware of the benefits of indulging in sports. Today we discuss some of the key benefits in participating in this beloved past time activity.

Health Benefits

There is well-documented research providing evidence that playing sports helps develop healthy bones in children, and aids with weight loss, as well as being heart health for the elderly. Women at risk for osteoporosis can increase bone density through sports and other forms of physical activity. People who are at risk for type 2 diabetes who would otherwise be unmotivated to join a gym would be well-served by taking up a sport. This would go a long way in staving off disease while also promoting muscle tone and fat loss at the same time.

Mental Benefits

Playing sports can also trigger feelings of joy and happiness, and not just because your team wins. This is believed to be a result of your brain releasing dopamine, widely regarded as the feel-good hormone. Dopamine is also thought to increase mental drive and motivation, which could help with other areas in your personal life. 

Engaging in sports is also a great way to stay mentally fit, as sports constantly requires creative thinking and problem-solving skills in order to spot your opponent’s weakness and capitalize on it. This is separate from the mental health benefits that are provided by the physical activity involved in playing sports.

The Community Aspect

Playing sports promotes social cohesion, as well as builds bonds between people of different communities where there would otherwise be none. Sports is widely used as a preventative strategy in at-risk communities, where coaches provide positive guidance for children who would otherwise seek it from less desirable places. People of all backgrounds come together to engage in sports, and this is put on full display not only during the Olympics but every single day in gyms and playgrounds in our local communities.