By Karen Johnson
South Holland District Council community development officer
It was great to see so many people come along to the Give it a Go! event at the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field on April 2. More than 350 people came to meet South Holland’s sports clubs and try activities including football, golf, rugby, rowing and bowls.
Playing sports is a favourite activity for many people; young and old around the world. It provides us with enjoyment and can help our mind, body and soul. It is an excellent physical activity and fitting it into your day can be easier than you think.
Sport has many health benefits; it can help a healthy heart. The heart gets its own workout when you play sports. Sport can help control diabetes, reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, improve our blood circulation, strengthen our body’s immune system, tone muscles, strengthen bones and help control our weight. Fat and calories get burnt and people who regularly participate in sport will generally reduce their risk of long-term health conditions.
Playing sports offers children more than just physical benefits too. Sports typically help kids academically and socially. It can also develop other personal qualities including discipline, mutual respect, teamwork, goal setting, calmness and help build our self-esteem. It can create new friendships and improve your general outlook on life, which will all contribute to an improved quality of life for everybody involved.
To find out where your local clubs and activities on offer then visit Lincolnshire Sport’s now re-named as Active Lincolnshire www.lincolnshiresport.com In addition, the national One You campaign www.nhs.uk/oneyou/moving has also got information on “10 steps to an active you”.
Being active is really good for all the family, so why not start today?
