Sports have many benefits for a person’s physical and mental health. They calm the mind, improve muscle strength and coordination, and bring positive energy to your life.
Sport is a great convening tool, especially for people from different cultures and backgrounds. From the euphoria that I have heard in Fiji after a World 7s rugby tournament, to a Monday morning blues amongst Laos youth when their favourite soccer team lost, sporting events provide an opportunity for people to come together, creating new connections and fostering community bonds.
Psychological Benefits of Sport
Research has shown that sport can have significant psychological effects, particularly on a person’s self-esteem and social relationships [165]. It helps to build self-confidence and resilience, and can help to reduce stress levels.
It can also help to improve motor skills, such as balance and coordination. These skills can be transferred to other aspects of daily life such as school work and driving a car.
In addition, children who participate in sport before puberty can develop stronger bones and muscles, which reduces their risk of physical injury as they grow up.
Sports can also help to develop skills that can be useful for life, such as leadership and communication. They can also help to develop determination and goal-setting, which can be beneficial when trying to succeed in the classroom or at work.