Athletics vs. Academics
Do Athletics Help in Life?
Growing up in the 21st Century has provided a preponderance of children with the opportunity to participate in competitive sports. These athletics aid in the development of competition, respect, and social skills, which can lead to more success by acquiring life skills early. Whether it be basketball, baseball, soccer, football, or one of the countless other sports offered throughout the country, sports are crucial in the expansion of growing children’s experiences. Athletics offer an outlet for both anxiety and stress. For some, it is a sanctuary where they cannot be held down by impending deadlines or tests. The field, court or the course is a refuge where they can just let everything go. According to Dr. Marianne Engle, a sports psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor at the NYU Child Study Center, “Research has shown that sports contribute to psychological well-being by reducing anxiety and depression and enhancing self-esteem.” With reduced stress and anxiety and a much needed break after a practice, game, or match, students are able to focus on what needs to be done academically. They were able to put their academics aside and relax that part of their brain. With a refreshed mind, they are able to knock their work out efficiently and accurately. Sports provide not only a healthy choice, but can be a life-altering choice. Physical inactivity can be lethal. Not being able to be active and improve one’s cardiovascular system can lead to multiple types of diseases. These diseases can lead to a poor quality of life and in some extreme cases, even death. Dr. Engle also stated that, “Physical inactivity exacts a huge toll. It was estimated to cause 1.9 million deaths worldwide in 2000 and 10 to 16 percent of cases each of breast cancer, colon cancer and diabetes. In the United States, inactivity contributed to an estimated $75 billion in medical costs in 2000 alone.” Athletics also improve the social and mental health of
Growing up in the 21st Century has provided a preponderance of children with the opportunity to participate in competitive sports. These athletics aid in the development of competition, respect, and social skills, which can lead to more success by acquiring life skills early. Whether it be basketball, baseball, soccer, football, or one of the countless other sports offered throughout the country, sports are crucial in the expansion of growing children’s experiences. Athletics offer an outlet for both anxiety and stress. For some, it is a sanctuary where they cannot be held down by impending deadlines or tests. The field, court or the course is a refuge where they can just let everything go. According to Dr. Marianne Engle, a sports psychologist and Clinical Assistant Professor at the NYU Child Study Center, “Research has shown that sports contribute to psychological well-being by reducing anxiety and depression and enhancing self-esteem.” With reduced stress and anxiety and a much needed break after a practice, game, or match, students are able to focus on what needs to be done academically. They were able to put their academics aside and relax that part of their brain. With a refreshed mind, they are able to knock their work out efficiently and accurately. Sports provide not only a healthy choice, but can be a life-altering choice. Physical inactivity can be lethal. Not being able to be active and improve one’s cardiovascular system can lead to multiple types of diseases. These diseases can lead to a poor quality of life and in some extreme cases, even death. Dr. Engle also stated that, “Physical inactivity exacts a huge toll. It was estimated to cause 1.9 million deaths worldwide in 2000 and 10 to 16 percent of cases each of breast cancer, colon cancer and diabetes. In the United States, inactivity contributed to an estimated $75 billion in medical costs in 2000 alone.” Athletics also improve the social and mental health of