While sports like tennis and volleyball represent an ideal way to have fun and make friends, the physical activities also benefit the health of your body. Most sports are aerobic, which means to compete you'll have to move your body quickly over a sustained period. People who play sports on a consistent basis often breathe better because aerobic exercise enhances your ability to use oxygen. Aerobic sports also help you maintain a thin figure and avoid obesity and other serious health conditions that can threaten your future.
Sports and Improved Breathing
Athletic competition requires large amounts of oxygen to help your muscles burn energy and move quickly. Your body's rate of breathing determines how much oxygen your muscles receive. Sports like basketball and football reward your body with higher levels of oxygen because the quick movement of your arms, hips and legs allows you to breathe faster and more deeply for extended periods. Your heart rate also increases during sports, which ensures improved blood flow to your muscles, lungs and the rest of your body.
More Than Deeper Breathing
Sports like ice skating, volleyball and competitive swimming that help you breathe better also reward your body with improved overall health. Aerobic sports burn large amounts of calories fast, so you'll have a greater chance to shed fat and keep it off. Athletes also benefit from enhanced energy levels, stronger hearts and immune systems, as well as arteries --- or blood vessels --- that contain less harmful plaque. You might notice that you feel better after a game of tennis thanks to higher levels of endorphins, or substances released by your body during vigorous exercise. Endorphins work as natural pain relievers and help you respond better to stress.
Exercise After Game Day
Consistent activity is necessary to reap the full health benefits of aerobic sports and other physical activities. Consider complementing your game day exercise with other workouts at least five days weekly. The American Heart Association suggests at least 30 minutes of walking, jogging, dancing or other aerobic methods, although you'll also benefit from dividing your exercise into 15-minute segments on days you can't complete an extended session. Aim to perform at a moderate to vigorous pace when possible.
Shortness of Breathing and Other Issues
While athletic activity typically improves your breathing and benefits your overall health, in some cases choosing a sport that is unsafe or inappropriate for your age and health condition results in injury. Meet with your doctor before signing up for any sport, especially if you are over 40 or haven't exercised regularly. Discontinue your activity and ask for help if you suffer shortness of breath, tightness in your chest or feelings of light-headedness and dizziness.
References
- Merck Manuals: Choosing the Right Exercise
- MayoClinic.com: Aerobic Exercise: Top 10 Reasons To Get Physical
- Cleveland Clinic: What Is The Best Type of Aerobic Exercise?
- President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports: Exercise and Weight Control
- Cleveland Clinic: Aerobic Exercise
- Merck Manuals: Starting an Exercise Program
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