Most of us are familiar with the concept of cabin fever. The days are short and it starts to feel as though the stinging snow flurries have overstayed their welcome. These antsy feelings are a cue that it’s time to get creative with your fitness regimen and burn off some energy. Candice Dunkin, MS, LAT, ATC, manager athletic training, Parkview Sports Medicine, shares how a basketball league can come in for the assist.
Missing your summer activities and looking for something to get you back in shape? An indoor basketball league can be as social or as competitive as you make it, and is not only a great way to get some exercise, but also meet up with friends or others with similar interests.
The physical benefits are phenomenal. Basketball is an excellent way to strengthen muscles in the core, arms and legs, and the whole-body workout can burn up to the same amount of calories as cycling or swimming. It’s also a great way to improve your coordination. Skills such as passing, shooting and dribbling can improve hand-eye coordination, which can carry over to other areas of your life including reaction time, typing and music.
Basketball leagues are for everyone, and skill levels vary depending on the competitiveness of the group. Whether you’ve played in an organized setting, or just watched from the sidelines, joining can get you off the treadmill while still maintaining the same cardiovascular workout. And adding a few lively games into your normal exercise routine might give you the motivation to stick with an exercise regimen that truly works for you.
So, dare to dribble, step up to shoot and find a league at a location and time that accommodates your schedule. The benefits are certainly a slam dunk for your wellness objectives.
Basketball isn't for you? Check out ice skating, cross-country skiing and snowboarding or other winter activities available in our communities.
