Whether it’s a pickup game of basketball or an organized water polo league, playing sports can make you healthier and happier because of the physical activity involved. Playing sports contributes to muscle development, coordination, cardiovascular health and numerous other benefits associated with disease prevention; physical activity can help ward of chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, obesity, depression and osteoporosis, according to Sport and Development.org.
Sports and Special Populations
Playing sports can help children develop healthy bones, stronger cardiovascular systems and powerful lungs, according to Sport and Development.org. Child athletes also develop motor skills and cognitive skills. Being physically active as a child makes it more likely to continue playing sports as an adult, promoting lifelong health, according to the United Nations. Among women, sports can help prevent osteoporosis and hip fractures. Older citizens who play sports have opportunities to keep their bodies moving, feel independent and socialize with others in a healthy way.
Getting Physical
Playing sports can help people achieve fitness goals related to weight loss, muscle development and fat reduction because of the physical activity involved. Children who play sports are less likely to experience childhood obesity.
