HEALTH BENEFITS OF TENNIS

Health benefits of Tennis:

Tennis is a lifelong sport, which provides many advantages and benefits for players of all ages. Along with physical, psychological and social benefits, however, come a few disadvantages — injuries and expenses. If you’ve never played and you’re trying to figure out if tennis is the right sport for you, weigh the pros and cons before making your decision.

Physical Advantages

Being physically active is important in maintaining your overall health — it reduces your risk of heart disease and diabetes, helps you control your weight, strengthens your bones, relieves tension and can even improve your mood. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines recommend that adults participate in at least 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic activity each week. Playing tennis two to three times each week can help you meet these guidelines and increase your chances for living longer.

Mental and Psychological Benefits

These benefits range from building self-confidence and self-esteem in young players to reducing stress and maintaining cognitive abilities in adults and seniors, notes Jack Groppel, exercise physiologist and United States Tennis Association sport science adviser. Several studies show how tennis can help improve your mental awareness, your assertiveness, lower your levels of depression, help you portray a positive image and develop self-control, according to John Murray, sports psychologist. Tennis requires alertness and tactical thinking and because of this, playing tennis may generate new connections in the brain, which encourages continued brain development, claims researchers and scientists at the University of Illinois.

Social Benefits

Playing tennis is a great way to meet people, spend time with your friends, widen your social circles and build networks. No matter your age or skill level, you can usually find a competitive match, join a league or participate in a group lesson with people who have a similar ability. Playing doubles gives you the opportunity to work on your communication and team skills.

Article written by Michael M. Howard

https://www.livestrong.com/article/523604-advantages-disadvantages-of-tennis/