Oct 20 2011
Exciting Outdoor Sports to Keep You Fit
Many people today spend a great deal of their time in front of the computer, browsing through Facebook and other websites that keep you engaged. If not, you’re busy toying with your latest gadget or surfing from one channel to another on your giant TV. Gone are the days when the wonderful weather would entice people to come out of their houses to play sports.
People should realize the importance of engaging in outdoor sports. They are not only enjoyable and fun, they also provide good exercise that can keep you fit and healthy. Engaging in physical activity of at least 30 minutes a day can keep ailments and health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity at bay. Here are five popular outdoor sports that you would gain benefit from.
Baseball
Little boys and girls used to dream of becoming baseball players. When they grow up, they hardly ever touch a baseball bat or ball. Playing baseball will increase your physical strength, improve your coordination and balance, and hone qualities like discipline and teamwork. There are probably baseball leagues in your vicinity that you may want to try. The fun factor in this sport has never gotten lost since you were a little kid and up to now. You can also try to coach a Little League if you have baseball skills.
Swimming
Swimming is another very popular sport in the US. It’s a great way to get your regular aerobic physical activity. It doesn’t only help prevent chronic illnesses, it also improves the health of those who have diabetes and heart disease. Those who swim for exercise or pastime have half the risk of death compared to people who live sedentary lifestyle. Since there is less muscle effort and pressure, people can exercise longer in water. Even people with arthritis can benefit from this exercise without worsening the symptoms. This activity also improves the mood for both men and women. It also decreases anxiety, stress, and depression risk.
Golf
Some think that golf isn’t that physically demanding as it’s not as rigorous as other sports like basketball, ice hockey, or soccer. But this is what makes it a wonderful form of exercise. Even if you’re not really a strong athletic type but if you have what it takes to make a hole in one, you can benefit from this sport. For one, it improves a person’s flexibility. The swinging of the club increases range of motion. It also works on strengthening the leg muscles and promoting good breathing. Not to mention, golfing requires walking three to four miles. This gives you the aerobic workout you need to stay in top shape.
Basketball
This game is not only for guys. Even women will have a fun time shooting hoops. This is a physically demanding game that would definitely increase your agility, strength, stamina, and endurance. It will also improve your flexibility so that you will be less susceptible to injuries and accidents.
Martial Arts
There are plenty of martial arts for you to choose from: taekwondo, karate, samurai (katana sword), tai chi, kung fu, and so on. These martial arts don’t only hone your physical strength and overall health, they also improve your focus, discipline, and awareness.
