The Mental Benefits of Sports

When you think about the advantages of playing sports, your first thought is probably that sports improve your physical fitness. But research shows that participating in sports and exercise helps your mind as well as your body. Here are some of the key mental benefits of sports: Improve Mood
Want a burst of happiness and relaxation? Involve in a physical activity. Whether you are playing sports, working out at a gym, or taking a brisk walk, physical activity stimulates brain chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. Team sports in particular provide a chance to unwind and engage in a satisfying challenge that improves your fitness. They also provide social benefits by allowing you to connect with teammates and friends in a recreational setting.
Improve Concentration
Regular physical activity helps keep your key mental skills sharp as you age, including thinking, learning, and using good judgment. Research has shown that doing a mix of aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities, which are common to most sports, three to five times a week for at least 30 minutes, can provide these mental health benefits.
Reduce Stress and Depression
When you are physically active, your mind is distracted from daily stressors, freeing you to think more creatively and avoid getting bogged down in negative thought patterns. Exercise reduces the levels of stress hormones in your body, such as adrenaline and cortisol. At the same time, it stimulates production of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters that can help keep stress and depression at bay. Endorphins may even leave you feeling more relaxed and optimistic after a hard workout on the sports field.