Recreational Sports vs Competitive Athletics
Choosing a sport to join is a big decision! We want you to join a sport that you will love. Let's discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks between recreational sports and competitive athletics.
Competition Teams
Competitive athletics offer a higher level of physical activity, a greater involvement with the team, and some unforgettable moments.
With that said, comp teams can also offer some challenges, such as: more responsibility, anxiety-inducing situations, depressive scenarios (like losing a championship game by 1 point), and sometimes violent interactions happen. These are things some people might want to avoid to prevent triggering their negative thought patterns. However, these challenges can also increase the emotional capacity for which we can handle our mental health troubles. Please speak with your healthcare provider about these risks and use their guidance in making the right decision for you.
“Early engagement in sport and structured exercise may be vital for developing the necessary motor skills needed to establish a lifelong habit for physical activity,” study co-author Daniel Aggio, from University College London, said in a statement.
Rec & League Teams
Recreational sports are a great option for everybody. They offer the benefits of regular exercise, a team environment, friendly competition, and endless opportunities for positive memories.
We've all heard it before; what we do in our younger years can affect our bodies when we are older. According to research, it's true! Being on a rec team provides not only physical benefits but also psychological bonuses. Being active for more than half an hour of exercise every day can help you feel energized, lower your blood pressure, and strengthen your bones according to the Heart Foundation of Australia. Repetitive movements are able to release stress and aggression, and recreational sports put you around like-minded peers. By creating a social atmosphere you can enjoy playing your favorite sport while also feeling like you're part of something bigger (“Benefits of Recreational Sports on Adults,” 2018).
