You Can Even Play Hockey for Health in the Southwest
By Tom Herrin
Living in areas where it is hotter and drier does not actually close the doors to activities that are associated with warmer temps. Anytime people can find something that is enjoyable and can improve health, it should be a consideration. Stereotypical activities are more the result of unintentional biases than actual facts. One good and fun activity that is available for people of all ages and abilities in all places is field hockey. It can be a blast to play while doing a lot of good to build better health. Contrary to what most think, it does not require a lot of speed or strength to participate.
It May Be Good for the Heart and Circulatory System
Anytime an activity can increase blood flow, it can produce some good results for the body. Even though field hockey can be played at a slow pace with moderate contact, it can do some good things. Since it is naturally fun to play, those who participate can have the opportunity to play hard, rest, then play hard again. When the term hard is used, it can simply mean playing hard enough to challenge their abilities. The more they play, the better the conditioning that is available.
It May Help Build Mental Strength
People tend to experience plenty of stress as they go about their daily routines. Some kind of physical release of that can help. Playing a game such as hockey can help the body to release chemicals that may relieve stress as well as depression. It may also help them to improve their decision-making ability since they will have to do so on the move as they play the game. This is a good thing to transfer into everyday life on a job or with a family.
It May Improve Speed
Although I may feel that I have enough speed for what I need to do, I realize that better reaction time is always good. While I don’t intend to try to win any races, I know that increasing speed is a good thing. Playing a game in which improving speed is a natural consequence can be good for anyone, regardless of age. Playing field hockey is a good tool to do that. Reacting to a faster moving object, such as a ball or puck, will necessitate a faster movement. Just because you haven’t thought about playing this game, don’t sell it short. Your family or friends will likely enjoy it more than you realize.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tucson, Ariz.