The many benefits of a sporting life
/Taking part in regular sports or physical activity has incredible health and wellbeing benefits – and it can even extend your life for seven years or more1.
Playing sports is something that is generally linked to children and younger adults – with participation waning the older we get. Taking part in sport and physical activity, however, has many benefits – so if you’ve been thinking about reigniting a sporting passion, or simply getting your body moving again, here are the positives that lie ahead.
The physical and mental benefits of playing sport
Improvement to cardiovascular health. Research has shown that exercise prevents both the onset and development of cardiovascular disease2 – helping strengthen the heart3 and lungs4. Regular physical activity can also help lower blood pressure5 and reduce the risk of heart disease,6 too, by helping keep your weight under control, lowering cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure.
Muscles get stronger and more flexible, helping us to avoid injuries and keeping our joints moving freely as we get older.7 Exercise can also improve balance and coordination which can reduce the risk of falls and injuries in older adults.8
Can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.9
It can help you get a better night’s sleep which is vitally important from a health and wellbeing perspective.10
It could help you live longer, taking part in 150 minutes of physical activity a week can give you an extra seven years of life, while higher activity levels can increase your lifespan even more – regardless of your weight, age or gender.11
6. Stress and anxiety decrease. A number of studies have proven the link between playing sport and a reduction in stress, anxiety and depression.12 When we’re physically active endorphins are released creating a feeling of wellbeing. Sport also provides an outlet for pent-up energy and emotions, and that break from the everyday is hugely valuable.
7. Mood and self-esteem increases13 through achieving goals, building confidence and positive feedback.
8. You’ll meet new people, building those social connections can be incredibly valuable – it can create new friendships and reduce social isolation, which of course can positively impact physical and mental health, too!
