Sports are the world’s most widespread after-school activity, but have you ever thought about how you can use sports to decrease stress levels or even help with academics? Sports have been proven to help people with academics and life skills. When you are physically active, your mind is distracted from daily stress. Being active helps you avoid negative thoughts and exercise reduces the levels of stress hormones in your body.
Willow Kellen, a sophomore at Huntington Beach High School (HBHS), said, “[I prioritize] what’s important with a to-do list, staying organized and going day by day. I keep track of my practices, games and classes which helps me stay up to date with what I have looking forward to as well.”
Sports also help you clear your mind from other things going on in your life. It helps you focus on your task at hand when you just need to block everything else out. Clearing your mind while playing sports allows you perform better while being mentally prepared.
Freshman student athlete, Aaliyah Billinger, says she sleeps or relaxes in her bed when she is feeling overwhelmed.
Sports and other physical activities improve the quality of sleep you get each night. They allow you to fall asleep faster and deepen your sleep, making you more refreshed in the morning.
“I take a break from thinking about grades or assignments while I am at a practice or games to focus on improving my skills,” said Cici Wong, a 9th grader at HBHS.
Student-athletes, scholars who work for good grades while also participating in sports, are more likely to have a higher grade point average (GPA) in school. Student-athletes tend to earn up to 40% higher test scores, are more likely to attend college, and typically earn a higher income after graduating.
Participating in sports helps students in many ways relating to school but it can also help improve one’s social life. Joining a team helps you connect with people you may have never talked to. It builds team-building skills that will help you later in life. Being on a team can build lifelong friendships with people who will always have your back.
Overall, doing sports benefits students in their academics, social life and quality of sleep for a healthier lifestyle.
