Thursday, October 6, 2016

The Health Benefits of Playing Basketball


Basketball is one of the most popular sports all over the world. Everyone who picks up a ball dreams of becoming the next Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, or LeBron James. But not everyone is fortunate enough to reach their skill level.
But those who get to play the game regularly are fortunate as well. Basketball is good for you in many ways. It’s a great way to spend your free time and get together with friends and fellow basketball lovers. It also teaches you how to be a team player and keeps youngsters from going to the so-called dark side. Most importantly, it’s good for the body. Basketball has many health benefits. Here are just a few of them:
Good for the Heart
The game requires you to keep running and jumping. Basically, the longer you stay on the court, the more you move your body. This will keep your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health.
Builds Muscles
The running, jumping, and changes in directions focus on certain muscles or muscle groups in the legs and thighs. The act of shooting, especially those from long range, builds the muscles in the arms.
Burns Calories
Average-sized people (165 pounds or more) can burn around 600 to 750 calories if they play basketball for an hour. Those who weigh around 250 pounds can burn up to 900 calories during the same period.
Builds Endurance
The more often you play, the more your endurance improves. And the longer you play during a game, the more your body gets used to prolonged physical activity, which is useful in everyday life.
Strengthens Bones
Activities that involve weight-bearing helps improve bone density, thus strengthening them. The more you play basketball, the stronger your bones get.
Relieves Stress
Doing something you love will help take your mind off anything that bothers you. Plus, the endorphins released while playing helps put you in a better mood and get rid of stress.
There are other benefits of playing basketball. It boosts your immune system and mental development. Your motor skills and coordination improve. Basketball allows you to become more aware of your own body while developing concentration and self-discipline at the same time.

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