About Sports & Health
Playing sports is a popular activity that could improve your health. More than 170 million Americans are active in fitness, team sports, recreational or outdoor endeavors, according to the 2009 "Sports Participation in America" report by the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association.
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Significance
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Adults need 30 minutes of physical activity, such as from playing sports, at least five days a week to be healthy. Children and teens need 60 minutes a day, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Benefits
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Physical activity can decrease the risk of getting or dying from cardiovascular disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, such as colon cancer, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.
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Warning
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Playing sports can lead to injuries. They range from temporary ailments like pulled hamstrings to more serious ones like broken necks. The risk factor depends on the type and level of play.
Prevention
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Always warm up your muscles before exercising or participating in sports. Also, wear the proper equipment. For example, don't ride a bike without a helmet.
Side Effects
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Besides contributing to good health, sports and regular physical activity improves mood, helps relieve depression and increases feelings of well-being, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Hamed Saber
