We all know that sport is good for us, both physically and mentally. Are some sports better for certain things than others though? If you’re looking to get more active, you may have certain goals in mind. In this case, you’ll want to choose the right activity. One that you’ll enjoy and one that matches your goals and abilities. Here are some different sports and how each one benefits your health:
#1 Running or Jogging
If you’re reasonably fit then anybody can start gentle running or jogging. People who does this regularly suffer less bone and muscle loss as they age. Your bones grow stronger, the more in demand they are for physical activity. Mentally, running works wonders for the ‘feel good’ hormones that are released into your system resulting in the well-known ‘runner’s high’.
#2 Cycling
This is a low impact sport that can be incredibly fun and rewarding. It’s great for burning calories and releasing endorphins, just like running does. Research has even shown that cycling is effective in increasingly brain volume and after only a few months, those who cycled had the brain volumes of people 3 years younger than their real age.
#3 Tennis
Tennis is a highly effective aerobic exercise workout, burning up to 600 calories an hour. The quick reactions and fast moves of tennis encourage you to engage in short but powerful bursts of energy, channelling your strength and working wonders on your muscles. It is quite high-impact so if you have any health concerns, it’s best to seek the advice of your GP before you begin any new fitness regime.
#4 Bowling
You might not think it but bowling is ideal for muscle toning and strengthening, particularly of your lower body as you carry the weight of the bowling ball. It can be taken up at any age, any ability and is a good way to get active in a low impact way. It will improve hand-eye co-ordination, reduce stress and if played socially, will improve your mental well-being and reduce the risk of disease caused by a sedentary lifestyle. To purchase your own Bowling Ball, visit http://www.petesproshop.co.uk/acatalog/bowling-balls.htm
#5 Squash
You’ll need a relatively good level of existing fitness to take on what’s been named as the healthiest sport in the world. Squash works your strength, power, co-ordination and flexibility. It is one of the best sports for burning calories due to its intense aerobic requirements.
#6 Cross-Country Skiing
Now, not many of us will be in the right location to take this up but if you fancy jetting off to a snow-covered wonderland then Nordic skiing burns more calories than any other sport or exercise. This kind of skiing involves such a complete whole-body workout that it can burn up to 1,122 calories an hour! People who ski are even fitter than those who regularly exercise which goes to show what a fantastic vigorous activity this sport really is.
