As the basketball season heats up, sports enthusiasts are gearing up for thrilling moments, whether it’s reminiscing about a memorable NCAA buzzer-beater victory or eagerly anticipating a jaw-dropping NBA playoff dunk. While emulating the prowess of legends like LeBron James or Stephen Curry might be a stretch, basketball provides an excellent avenue for engaging in healthy exercise. Experts suggest that for most people, basketball can be an invigorating and enjoyable way to stay fit and socially connected.
Dr. Sara Gould, a renowned orthopedic surgeon from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, highlights the numerous physical and emotional health benefits basketball offers. With her extensive experience as a team physician and medical director for NBA events, Gould emphasizes how accessible the sport is. All it takes to get started is a flat surface, a hoop, and a ball.
Basketball is highly regarded as a robust workout regimen, according to Dr. Dermot Phelan, the director of the Gragg Center for Cardiovascular Performance. As part of both NFL and NBA advisory committees, Phelan notes the sport’s potential to lower blood pressure, manage weight, decrease cholesterol, and reduce stress – critical factors in mitigating coronary and cardiac issues. Federal guidelines corroborate these health benefits, recommending at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, with basketball offering a high-intensity interval training experience.
During a standard basketball game, players might run over three miles, showcasing an impressive ratio of intense sprinting activity. Recent studies have shown that basketball can result in higher heart rates and exertion levels compared to other high-intensity workouts, yet participants find it more enjoyable. However, not everyone should jump into high-intensity games, especially those with known cardiac conditions.
Phelan advises caution for individuals with certain heart ailments, such as ARVC and HCM, which can pose risks during intense physical activity. Historically, those diagnosed with such conditions were restricted to minimal physical engagements like bowling. However, recent guidelines suggest a more nuanced approach to exercise recommendations, recognizing the long-term benefits of participation balanced against short-term risks.
The cardiac event involving Bronny James, a young basketball player who experienced a sudden cardiac arrest due to a congenital defect, has spotlighted the importance of heart health in sports. NCAA basketball athletes, particularly men in Division I, face higher sudden cardiac death risks compared to athletes in other sports. While the reasons for this remain speculative, the necessity of accessible defibrillators at sports venues is underscored.
Given these complexities, Phelan reassures that for the average person, basketball remains a safe and advantageous activity. Nevertheless, beginners are advised not to overexert themselves immediately and to gradually increase their activity levels. Maintaining overall joint health is vital, with exercises such as cross-training and resistance training proving beneficial in preventing common knee injuries.
Gould suggests immersing in the sport at a comfortable pace, emphasizing the importance of warming up, staying hydrated, and incorporating brief periods of rest. Basketball not only serves as a fitness booster but also a stress reliever, bringing people together and contributing to mental well-being.
Ultimately, basketball stands out as a dynamic sport that enriches physical health and fosters social connections, making it highly recommended for those seeking an active lifestyle.