Health And Fitness Benefits Of Playing Baseball And Softball

Baseball and softball are very enjoyable sports and learning how they are played is quite easy. But, apart from knowing the rules and regulations of the sport as well as how it is actually played, it is also imperative to know the various equipment needed for the play itself. Visit www.thebatnerds.com and you will be provided with various relevant information on baseball and softball, as well as helpful guides to make certain you purchase quality baseball or softball equipotent.

Baseball and softball are sports that adults, adolescents and children enjoy, whether for recreation or as an official player of a minor, major, amateur or professional league. Aside from the fun it provides, these sports also offer various fitness and health benefits. For players who regularly play the sport, they are most likely already reaping and enjoying the befits that keep them in shape.

Benefits Of Baseball and Softball

Baseball is largely played by males whereas softball is primarily played by females. Regardless, the health and fitness benefits offered by the sports are the same. So, what are these benefits? Let’s look at some:

  • Complete Body Conditioning. Compared to other sports, baseball and softball require numerous skills, hence they provide complete body conditioning. These skills necessitate a good coordination of various muscles all over the body.
  • Strength and Anaerobic Benefits. Each action and movement in baseball and softball is explosive, from batting/hitting, throwing, jumping off bases, quick lateral movements, and more. Furthermore, softball and baseball players require throwing power, acceleration power, muscular endurance, and muscular strength especially for pitchers. Hence, these are all developed.
  • Development of the Upper Body. The shoulder and arm muscle are developed as they are used in throwing and swinging motions which are very imperative an essential in the game. Biceps, triceps, rotator cuffs, forearms, as well as other major muscled in the upper body are developed as they are central muscles used to pitch, throw, and swing with power.
  • Conditions the Middle and the Lower Body. The core, the legs, as well as the obliques muscles are used when batting or hitting the ball. As they contribute to the throwing and swinging motions, these muscles are also developed.
  • Increased Flexibility. Flexibility is also developed when playing baseball or softball, especially on tight areas such as the hamstring, calve, hip flexors, and the chest area. Flexibility in these areas help prevent injuries.
  • Increase Self-esteem. People who engage in sports are more likely to have better self-esteem. As they have more self-esteem, they feel much better about themselves, socially and mentally.
  • Teaches Coordination and Teamwork. Like any other team sports, baseball and softball requires the coordinated effort of the team to achieve the goals. This not only means working well with teammates but with trainers and coaches as well.