Social Benefits of Physical Activity

Physical activity is obviously great for our physical health, but did you know it's great for our social health too? Sport or group workout participation is linked to a whole world of social benefits, check it out!

Social Health Specifics

Increased Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand and share feelings with others.

Competing as a team creates a strong sense of belonging in the athletes playing (I mean, you're all working towards the same goal together, it makes sense). Plus, physical activity reduces levels of stress and symptoms of anxiety.

This lovely combination can enhance the empathy experienced by an individual. The more empathy that you have, the more you care about what is happening in your community and those around you. Say hello to better conversations and relationships!

Increased Trustworthiness

When you understand the people around you and have a sense of empathy, you are more likely to invest and reciprocate in others.

On the field, your trust your team mate to receive your pass and challenge the defense together. You trust your team mate to score against the other team. Good news, this sense of trust continues off the field as well.

More individuals that are emotionally in-tune with the people and situations surrounding them will lead to more cooperation and cohesion among groups.

All of that enhances an individual’s level or trust for others and their personal level of trustworthiness in relation to others.

Improved Support System

By working out and getting competitive with others, you have at least one thing in common with the other people there! The first step towards expanding your social circle is to find people with like-interests.

With this increased sense of commonality, you'll feel more socially accepted. One of the foundational requirements of health is to feel a sense of relatedness, so feeling accepted is a crucial aspect of being able to make genuine connections with others.

Being surround by people who like similar things, mixed with the chance of stronger connections sounds like the perfect recipe for a great support system!