Health benefits of basketball

As an exercise enthusiast, you have probably tried a number of different workouts, be it running on treadmills, lifting weights, jogging, or joining an aerobic classe. But have you ever tried implementing a bit of basketball into your workout routines? Basketball provides a fun and competitive alternative to more traditional methods of fitness and weight loss. Whether you want to shoot hoops by yourself, or team up to hit the street courts, basketball is a great way to get fit and stay in shape. So here are a few reasons why playing basketball could help you stay healthy.

Improve motor skills

The objective of a basketball game is to score as many points as you can by getting the ball through the hoop of the opposing team. So far that sounds pretty simple. But along the way you're burning calories and building skills - hand-eye coordination is just one. Catching rebounding missed shots is another skill that requires a great degree of full-body coordination, since you have to observe the ball and jump to grab it at the right moment. Dribbling, another basic basketball skill, allows you to train your motor skills. Once you’ve mastered hand-eye coordination, you’ll no longer have to look at the ball while dribbling it.

Strengthen body

Basketball requires you to jump while playing, as well as running back and forth multiple times. In a basketball game, you rely on your body positioning and the ability to maintain that position when an opponent is pushing against you. This is why playing basketball can strengthen all parts of your body, especially your core muscles, neck, lower back, and arms.

Develop mental fitness

Basketball is a fast-paced mental game where you must develop the ability to quickly and accurately process what’s happening in the game so as to make the best decisions for your team. During the game, you must observe your teammates as well as opponents and anticipate their next move and respond accordingly. The more you play, the better chance you have of improving your decision making skills in real-life situations.

Reduce stress

Although basketball can be played alone, it’s much more fun to let your friends join in! Socializing with other players helps reduce stress and boosts your immune system. Don’t think of basketball as a competitive sport - consider it as an activity that allows you to meet other people who share common interests in creating a healthy lifestyle. What’s more, making good shots and being part of a good team can improve your self-esteem and confidence, which helps you feel more positive about yourself.

Burn calories

Basketball, in its purest form, is essentially another aerobic exercise that helps you burn a great deal of calories. For each hour of basketball, you can expect to burn somewhere between 600-900 calories, depending on your weight and the intensity of your pace.

Exercise is only boring if you make it so. Diversify your workouts and come up with a workout routine that is not only enjoyable, but also one that you can stick to. Contact our fitness experts today and we’ll be happy to help.