The advantages of sports in school

Sport is a misunderstood word. The mere word of sport evokes images of athletics, javelins, hurdles and even swimming as well as rhythmic gymnastics. The word sport does not merely mean a competition. This is truly a myopic view of sport. Sports, generally refer to activities done, mostly outdoors for the sake of amusement and exercise.

Everyone should indulge in one sport or another as sports keep us occupied and we can spend our leisure time fruitfully. There are many advantages of sports in schools.

Firstly, sports increases and strengthens the immunity system. As we exercise regularly, our bodies become stronger and the blood circulation is efficient. Accordingly, the organs function well and the person feels healthy. Thus, exercising increases out well-being and total fitness. On the other hand, people who lead sedentary lives do not exercise and prone to diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and coronary diseases. Thus to avoid these silent killers, we should exercise.

Sports can help us reduce weight. Obesity is dangerous as it is the gateway to all fatal diseases. When one embarks on a 30-minute exercise program, he or she will experience weight lost. This is because there is an increase in the metabolic rate causing the body to burn more calories. This in turn will tone and develop muscles. Incidentally, the heart, which is also a muscle, is strengthened with exercises. Hence, the heart is able to pump blood efficiently. Thus, you become healthier.

In addition, when we have a healthy society, we have citizens who are physically and mentally healthy. This is because when one concentrates on exercising and reaps the benefits of exercising, he or she begins to take a positive outlook towards life. He begins to appreciate life and stays away from cigarettes, alcohol and drugs which are enemies of a healthy society.

Whats more, they will be so caught up in sports, that the social ills that are rampant now may be reduced immensely. The loitering or skinhead culture can be dealt with. Instead, we will be able to raise a healthy generation that is socially, physically and mentally healthy.

The positive quality that students learn through sports is also commendable. The learn the importance of team spirit. They realize that they need everyones effort to win. Indirectly, they learn tolerance, co-operation and team play. They learn to give and take as well as appreciate ones talent and credibility. Thus, these students, the future leaders, learn good qualities that help build their personality especially in their budding years.

School is an institution that focuses on physical, mental and social development to develop wholesome and balanced individuals. Since sports are able to instill many positive qualities, sports should be emphasized in schools from the very beginning. Hence, by adopting good qualities through sports, we can envisage that the society that is going to helm out country is one that has all the qualities we desire and aspire in our leaders.

In a nutshell, sports should be made compulsory right from preschool. By facing the healthy challenges that are apparent in sports, our future generation is being molded to display the qualities we aspire in our future leaders.