The Skinny
Not ready to play a full 5-on-5 pickup basketball game at the park or go out dancing with friends? Don’t be discouraged. COVID-19 may be retreating, but lots of people are still reluctant to get sweaty with random strangers or even friends and family. Thankfully, there are plenty of options for those bashful types looking to take up a sport this summer for leisure or competition. And, yes, WellWell has a few suggestions to consider.
The Slate
Although it is team-oriented, basketball is one of the best solo sports out there. Not only can it be played during any time of the year (indoor and outdoor), but all that’s needed is a basketball and a hoop. And they can be found pretty much anywhere. Among other benefits, basketball can help build endurance, burn calories and improve balance and coordination.
The environment isn’t the only thing that benefits from a simple bike ride. Bringing out the two-wheeler for the day, not only burns a lot of calories and increases endurance, it also optimizes blood flow, oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Additionally, biking is one of the least physically demanding activities, which ultimately will reduce the risk of injury or any other bodily complications.
All someone needs to box is a punching bag, wrist wraps and boxing gloves. It helps build strength, especially in the arms and core, and is a beneficial aerobic exercise. Learning proper footwork and technique in each jab gets the heart pumping and helps lower the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Golf is more than a sport for people in retirement and its benefits go beyond the opportunity to relax in nature on a nice spring and summer day. The amount of walking required between each hole exceeds the commonly recommended daily number of steps for health. Of course, this mean walking the course and not joyriding on a golf cart for the day. The sport, while sometimes frustrating, even has the ability to improve mood and reduce anxiety. A recent Scandinavian study, in fact, even suggested it might help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes by strengthening the muscles and bones and reducing the risk of a hip injury.
While some are naturals when it comes to the dance floor and others seem to dance with two left feet, no matter who participates dance is a sport that provides a bushel of benefits. In memorizing choreographies and formations, dance has proven to play a significant role in preventing dementia, according to a New England Journal of Medicine study. With the constant bodily movement, it can be constructive in cardiovascular disease prevention and building flexibility and balance. Whether it is to your favorite song or not, dance can even help reduce stress, anxiety and possibly depression. And, of course, you don’t need a partner.
Eyes Up
What’s your favorite solo sport? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com
