Playing soccer is great for both the mind and body. As the world’s most popular sport, it should come as no surprise that it’s good for you. However, perhaps you didn’t realize all the hidden benefits of playing the ‘beautiful game’. This article will look at some of the main benefits of playing soccer
Helps build friendships
Hundreds of millions of people around the world love soccer. You can go into pretty much any country on earth and find a soccer fan. That makes it easy to build friendships by playing the sport, whether you’re playing for your local club, kicking the ball around at a local park, or doing tricks at a beach in Brazil. A love for soccer is something you can take anywhere in the world to make friends.
Promotes being more extrovert
If you’re a naturally introverted person, soccer will bring out the hidden extrovert in you. In no time, you’ll be barking orders at your teammates and celebrating when your team scores. Playing team sports like soccer is a great way to build confidence.
You learn to win and lose
Life is just a series of wins and losses when you think about it. Get a new job - that’s a big win. Get stood up in a restaurant - that’s a loss. Playing soccer will teach you to win and lose. When you win, you will learn to be humble and not get carried away with your own success. When you lose, you’ll learn to dust yourself off and start again.
Teaches you teamwork
Teamwork is an essential skill. Whatever you do with your life, you will need to work well with others. Playing soccer is perfect for learning teamwork because one great player can’t carry a team (unless they’re world-class). To win a game of soccer, everyone on the team needs to be doing their job.
Teaches hard work and discipline
Success in soccer requires hard work and discipline. You will learn to put extra effort into your game, play well for 90 minutes, and work hard for your team. You will also learn how to be managed and how to turn up on time. All of these skills are transferable to your work life.
Prevents depression and helps to live happier
It’s well documented that exercise prevents depression. Playing soccer is one of the best forms of exercise there is. Due to the short bursts of energy sustained over a long period of time, it’s similar to HIIT training. That means, if you play soccer regularly, you will be in great shape. With depression becoming more and more common, it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself.
Teaches respect
One of the greatest things about soccer is that it teaches respect. You can go into battle with another team for a full 90 minutes, then shake their hands at the end. Plus, you have to show respect for your manager, teammates, and referees. Team sports like soccer help young people learn the value of respect.