Self-esteem and sports go hand-in-hand, and the younger that people are when they start playing, the more beneficial it is. Exercise improves the structure of the body, which can help promote a better body image. During exercise, the body also releases endorphins that make a person feel positive and happy. The praise and recognition that comes with playing sports can help improve self-esteem. Playing sports also encourages players to socialize and work well together, which brings about a confidence boost through relationships.
The younger people are when they start playing sports, the better the results can be. Exercise helps keep muscles and bones strong and improves the overall health, structure and condition of the body. This helps keep weight down and the body in better shape, which can encourage a stronger sense of confidence and a better body image. Both can have a positive effect on everything from their grades to their work ethic.
Part of the connection between self-esteem and sports is thanks to the endorphins released during exercise. The effects on the body are said to be similar to those of morphine. Those who exercise feel happy because of it, which gives them a more positive disposition about their life in general.
Praise and recognition is typically tied to sports whether it's through individual efforts or as part of a team. It comes in the form of verbal praise, in writing or from receiving a trophy or medal, and each provides a boost in the recipient's self-esteem. Even a few words of praise can make people immediately feel more confident and want to push themselves to do even better while they're playing sports as well as in other areas of their life.
Socializing and learning how to work well with others is a big part of the connection between self-esteem and sports. These skills are useful for developing positive relationships well into adulthood and in turn, developing a higher level of self-respect in the process. They're also typically less likely to get involved in negative relationships.
There are numerous ways to get involved in sports, including joining a work or school team or playing together with a friend. Enough connections are known between self-esteem and sports that testing out the benefits is worth it for anyone who could use an increase in confidence. Many already notice an improvement after playing only once or twice.
