Basketball is a beloved sport all over the world, with countless people considering it as a way of life even. The reason for this is because it is an engaging game that has the makings of providing benefits to anyone who finds passion in the sport. Simply put, it is a productive activity to immerse yourself into, and one of the advantages that you can reap from it is its positive impact on health.
There is no shortage of action in the game, and with that comes significant effects to one’s body. So, take a look into some of its health benefits and gain a healthy excuse to spend more time on the court.
Play with a Purpose: Health Benefits of Playing Basketball
Countless people are hooked with the game of basketball because it is fun, interactive and competitive, but there is more to it than meets the eye. It has long been proven that it can boost your health in more ways than one, and here several of them.
Let basketball make you healthier!
Good for the heart
There is a wealth of evidence showing that physical activities help improve cardiovascular health, and taking part in basketball action is no exception. As you execute movements on the court such as running and jumping, the heart rate increases, causing it to pump more blood than at rest. This serves as a workout for the heart that helps strengthen it and lowers the risk for serious cardiovascular problems in the future.
Keeps you fit
There is no denying the high physical demands of basketball. Once you step on the hardwood, you have no choice but to move on a constant basis in order to gain a leg over the competition. This puts you in a situation where you burn calories while promoting muscle growth.
One of the areas of your body that develops the most is the abdomen. Since most offensive and defensive stances force you to stay low on the ground and keep balance, this puts pressure on your core, which helps develop abdomen strength and stability. Safe to say, it is one of the most engaging ab workouts out there.
Come to think of it, it is rare to see a seasoned basketball athlete who is out of shape. Just goes to show that the court is where you can build the physique and develop good health to be considered fit.
Builds strong bones
Studies show that bones can become more stronger when put under constant pressure, much like muscles in the body. To that end, it is advisable to work out on a regular basis, which could be in the form of playing basketball. As mentioned a while ago, there is no shortage of physical movements in the game, enough to force the bones to change over time when constantly used on the court.
Still, make sure to draw the line between when to keep playing and when to rest. This is important when you want to continue building strong bones and prevent injuries that could derail you from any physical activities.
Self-Care
Basketball is one of the most relied upon activities when it comes to pleasuring one’s self. After all, it is a platform where you can enjoy the thrill of competition while in the company of other people. As you take into account its health benefits, the game truly proves to be a great self-care practice. So, there is no reason not to love the game as much as you love yourself.