Sports in schools has been an established part of the curriculum for a lengthy amount of
time. It can either be a favourite subject to follow or the bane of a child’s school experience.
They are used to represent schools when competing as well as providing children with a
form of exercise to keep fit and healthy. However, it is only recently that the wider benefits
of sports in schools have been recognised and appreciated. Read on to find out more.
Without a shadow of a doubt, sports are known to help with physical health. Students get
the opportunity to take part in a wide range of sports such as football, netball and hockey
which can be done as an extracurricular as well as in school hours. On top of that, boys and
girl’s teams are provided by many schools to ensure inclusion of all who would like to
participate. This is why it is not surprising when asked the benefits of sports, the answers
tend to be about weight loss, stamina and increased speed. Research has shown that taking
part in sports can help limit the chances of chronic illnesses such as strokes, diabetes and
obesity. Given that old age restricts the amount of movement that can be done, starting
children off young with sports means that there is a possibility they can find a sport they
love, to carry on into old age with them.

Mental health is also affected by taking part in sports. It teaches the art of perseverance and
the skill of resilience. Overcoming hurdles and having the ability to handle setbacks are a
fantastic way to gain lifelong skills that affect more than just sports. Mental health can be
affected through lack of confidence and an overall sense of disappointment in one’s self
when life hits them with hardships. This, if not dealt with in a healthy way can lead to a
downward spiral of anxiety and depression which not only affects everyday life, but is
difficult to get out of. Sports helps gain purpose as well as a sense of belonging. The
victories help with confidence as well as the losses being dealt with together. This is also a
great path for the future and building a solid career out of something a child loves.