Basketball has been keeping athletes and recreational players active since its origin in 1891. Dr. James Naismith created the game to keep athletes fit during the cold winter months. Over time, basketball exploded in popularity and has grown into the sport we love today. Not only is it fun to play, basketball offers numerous health benefits.
Health Benefits of Playing Basketball
Strengthens Muscles
Basketball requires strength, agility, and stamina. Its fast-paced nature demands players to quickly move and change directions. Thus, your muscles are constantly contracting, especially in the lower body. Basketball is an excellent way to improve your body composition by developing lean muscle mass and burning calories at the same time.
Hearth Health
Basketball involves a lot of quick movements and running up and down the court. To put it simply, the whole game is a cardiovascular workout. Basketball players will see improved cardiorespiratory fitness levels over time, as your heart becomes more efficient at delivering oxygen to muscles throughout your body.
Balance & Coordination
Basketball players need to have a sense of hand-eye and foot coordination with all the jumping, pivoting, and constant change of direction. Ball handling skills and footwork will improve the more you play.
Bone Density
This might be a surprising inclusion on this list, but a 2018 research study confirmed that participation in team sports can actually improve bone density. Both and men and women that participated in team sports had higher bone mineral density than a age-matched sedentary control group. In fact, a surprising outcome proved that even older participants had greater bone mineral density that a younger inactive control group. That just goes to prove that a lifetime of sports participation has its advantages!
Basketball League Near Me
Our Brookfield location hosts a seasonal full-court competitive basketball league in a 4-on-4 format. This organized league utilizes a staffed referee and scorekeeper. Individual stats are also recorded. You can make your own team or join in as a free agent. The league is 7 weeks plus a playoff and there are prizes awarded to the winning team. It’s a great way to enjoy the game, burn some calories, and be social with your fellow members!
If you’re interested in joining this basketball league in Brookfield, become a member at Elite today. Sign up for a tour of the club below.
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