Basketball - health benefits (2024)

Health benefits of basketball

Basketball involves a lot of starting and stopping. While not renowned as an aerobic sport, it is still a great workout that can help you:

• burn calories (an hour of basketball can burn 630–750 calories)
• build endurance
• improve balance and coordination
• develop concentration and self-discipline
• build up muscle.

Other benefits of basketball

As well as being a great way to stay fit, basketball can also:

• help you to make new friends and see them regularly teach you about being a good team player
• be played by people of all ages and all abilities
• be played all year round because it’s usually an indoor sport
• be a fun game that kids of all levels and ages can enjoy
• be practiced alone – all you need is a ball and a hoop (and you can find a hoop in most local parks and school grounds)
• be played and enjoyed with as few as two people (although official games require 10 players).

Getting started with basketball

Although official games of basketball require 10 players, you can play a game of basketball with just one other person. You can also go out and shoot baskets by yourself. If you want to play basketball competitively, you can become a member of a team and get involved in local competition. Check out your local sports centres and associations for information on how to join a team, or start your own.

Basketball equipment

One of the great things about the game is that apart from having a basketball, you require very little other equipment to play. However, as basketball involves a lot of running and jumping, it can also be wise to have:

• basketball or sports shoes that provide good ankle support
• mouth guards
• protective knee and elbow pads.

Basketball and children

Some general tips

Suggestions include:

• Adults should check with their doctor before taking up basketball.
• Be aware that basketball is a fast-action game with lots of running, jumping, pivoting and twisting, so injuries and accidents can happen easily.
• Basketball puts a lot of stress on the legs, especially the knees and ankles, and puts pressure on tight shoulders.
• Protect yourself by becoming strong and flexible, as basketball is a very physically demanding game.
• Warm up and stretch your muscles and joints before hitting the court. Also cool down and stretch after playing.
• Make sure you have plenty of fluids on hand and rehydrate regularly.
• Don’t overdo it (this will depend on your age and condition). Mix it up with other low-impact sports.
• While playing in a full team competition is great, you can also have fun and benefit from a small space, a basket and a game of one on one.

Where to get help

• Local council
• Local basketball club
• Basketball Australia Tel. (02) 9469 7200
• Smartplay Tel. (03) 9674 8777

Things to remember

• Basketball teaches you about being a good team player and can be a great social sport.
• Adults should check with their doctor before taking up basketball.
• Basketball puts a lot of stress on the body and injuries can happen, so warming up, stretching your muscles and joints, and cooling down is important.
• Make sure you have plenty of fluids on hand and rehydrate regularly.