5 Reasons for Kids to Play Sports
We all know that regular physical exercise is good for a kid's body, mind, and spirit. But you can get your daily dose of endorphins from a jog around the block. So why play sports? Sports offer some extra benefits for kids in addition to having fun and getting fit.
Here are a few:
- Kids who play sports do better in school. You might think that athletics will take up all your study time. But research shows that kids who play sports do better in school and are more likely to graduate than those who don't. Exercise improves learning, memory, and concentration, which can give active girls an advantage when it comes to the classroom.
- Kids who play sports learn teamwork and goal-setting skills. Working with coaches, trainers, and teammates to win games and meet goals is great practice for success later in life. Being a team player can make it easier to work with others and solve problems, whether on the field or in the workplace.
- Sports have hidden health benefits. Some benefits of sports are obvious — like improving fitness and maintaining a healthy weight. But kids who play sports are also less likely to smoke and have a reduced chance of cancer and osteoporosis later in life. Sure, you can get these benefits from any type of exercise. But if you have trouble getting to the gym, there may be more incentive to show up and play if you know your coaches or teammates depend on you.
- Playing sports builds self-confidence. Kids involved in athletics feel better about themselves, both physically and socially. It helps to build confidence when you see your skills improving and your goals becoming reality. Other esteem-boosting benefits of sports participation include getting in shape, maintaining a healthy weight, and making new friends.
- Exercise can cut the pressure. Pressure is a big part of life. Playing sports can help you deal with it, since exercise is a natural mood lifter and a great way to relieve stress and fight depression. Plus, when you are on a team, you have friends who support you both on and off the field.
Warm Up
7 Minutes
10 Ball Slams
10 Burpees
10 Air Squats
10 Sit Ups
10 Lunge Jumps
Skill
KB Deadlift
Skill WOD
Partner
6 Minute AMRAP
5 KB Deadlift
One Legged Hop Down & Back
*Other partner holds high plank during this.
Switch after each round
WOD
10 Minute AMRAP
1 Handstand Attempt
5 Ring Rows
10 Box Jumps
1 Barn Run
Game
Jump The Creek
(if extra time)