Health. Team sports: what are their benefits?

Football, volleyball, handball, basketball, and even water polo. There are many different team sports to choose from. You'll be spoiled for choice. But if you choose a team sport, you won't be able to play the amateur, because the team will be counting on your commitment. This is a good thing if you want to maintain a regular practice. Teammates help and motivate each other. Not to mention that matches represent a common goal. This makes the physical benefits of improved cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and flexibility easier to maintain.

The group, good for mental health

But the benefits of team sports don't stop at the physical benefits. Joining a team, regardless of skill level, also strengthens a sense of belonging and creates strong bonds between participants. The group provides an emotional support network, reducing the risk of isolation and depression. A study of nearly 800 children and adolescents revealed that those who participated in team sports had significantly lower scores on anxiety and depression.

Additionally, these activities strengthen self-esteem, emotional regulation, and resilience—qualities that are transferable to everyday life. This is why participating in team sports during childhood and adolescence is beneficial for psychological development and mental health. Not to mention, these activities encourage cooperation, communication, and conflict management—valuable skills both on and off the field.