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Why Are Sports Good for Your Health?
Participation in sports can set the groundwork for a healthy and active lifestyle. Providing a potent motivator—competition—sports fuel your inner athlete and help you achieve group and individual goals. Sports can impact not only your physical, but also your mental, well-being.
Self-Esteem
Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD/LD, reports on MedicineNet.com that exercise benefits and increases self-esteem. Participation in sports, which encourages regular exercise, helps increase endorphins and boosts mood.
Mental Effects
Exercise Facts for Kids
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Mental effects of exercise include reduced anxiety, stress and depression, according to Zelman. Sports and physical activity can reduce the occurrence and severity of these conditions.
Heart Benefits
Your heart depends on regular activity and participation in sports and exercise programs to remain strong and healthy. Zelman says such exercise can lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of stroke or heart attack.
Disease Reduction
What Are the Ways Sports Improve the Quality of Life?
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Besides protecting your heart and mind, exercise can also fight off disease. Regular participation in sports and physical activity throughout your life reduces your risk of more than 40 chronic conditions, such as diabetes and osteoporosis, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.
Reduced Weight
Exercise helps encourage maintenance of a healthy weight. Daily activity through sports and fitness programs help your body burn calories and fat.
Related Articles
References
- Medicine Net: Benefits of Exercise
- The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports
- American College of Sports Medicine: Exercise Is Medicine
- Bureau of Labor Statistics. Healthcare Occupations. Occupational Outlook Handbook. U.S. Department of Labor; 2018.
- Medical Group Management Association (MGMA). 2010 MGMA Physician Compensation Survey Summary. MGMA; 2010.
- American Psychological Association (APA). Hot Careers: Sports Psychology. APA; 2012.
Writer Bio
Nicole Long is a freelance writer based in Cincinnati, Ohio. With experience in management and customer service, business is a primary focus of her writing. Long also has education and experience in the fields of sports medicine, first aid and coaching. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Cincinnati.