Anyone who is familiar with a hockey club anywhere in the world would know one thing, hockey can be played at practically any age. While it is an extremely taxing sport, due to the fact it relies on skills as much as fitness it can be played competitively into one’s 50’s.
While a seven year old taking up the sport might not considerthis aspect of the game, their parents should.
Keybenefits include that it:
Is a great workout
Hockey is a form of cardiovascular exercise, and whether you’re skating or running, your body benefits from the activity. Because of the start-stop nature of the game, where quick bursts of running arebroken up by periods of rest, you enjoy even greater cardio benefits. Alternating vigorous activity with moments of recovery, known as high intensity interval training, can burn more calories.
Builds muscularstrength
Field hockey also provides a strength-training workout, with the core and leg muscles being developed in particular. The sport can lead to enhancedmuscular strength, as well as improvement in athletic performance.
Improves coordination and balance
Having quick reactions is a must during game play. In field hockey, players must pass and receive a ball that is traveling quickly across the field. Developing these skills can lead to improved overall balanceand agility, as well as betterhand-eye coordination.
Promotes weight loss
Field hockey helps reduce excess body fat. The fast pace of the game requires short bursts of energy that helps burncalories and boost your metabolism. Each player burns an approximate number of 0.061 calories per pound, per minute.
Improvesbreathing
The constant useof energy and muscular strength help in the development of the cardiovascular system. Pumpingof sufficient quantities of oxygen through the blood helps improve breathing and cellular activity.
Builds teamwork
Playing with a team of 11people develops the spirit of teamworktowards successful achievement of goals and victory.
Boosts endurance
The constant practiceand sprinting across the field throughout a game can gradually increase your stamina. This not only helps on the field, but also in everyday activities and other exercise routines.
Enhances mental strength
Exercise itself can improve your mood because of the endorphins that are released, easing feelings of depression, stress and anxiety. Hockey provides all these benefits and demands good decision-making and strategy, which can be transferred to both personal and professional life.
Improves communication
Playing hockey involves the verbal and nonverbal communication of messages through eyes and gestures, as players communicate during a fast-paced game. This leads to the overall improvement in the communication skills of the players.
Improves speed
Field hockey not only helps strengthenthe cardiovascular system, but it also helps increase your speed and stamina. Fast footwork and agility on the field can be beneficial in everyday life, especially as you age.
