You know what; I’m pretty excited for the last two weeks of September. Not only is Northern Health’s Great Northern Scavenger Hunt taking place, but the world cup of hockey is taking place. While I won’t be watching every game, I’m looking forward to cheering on team Canada. If team Canada is knocked out, then I’ll cheer for team Finland, as I have family over there.
Now, you might be wondering why I brought up watching the world cup of hockey when Northern Health is encouraging people to step away from the screen. To be honest it’s about limiting screen time, not eliminating it all together.
Sports are a great way to plug into your community
Organized sports like hockey, soccer, baseball, volleyball and basketball not only promote physical activity, but also sportsmanship, teamwork and often community involvement. The Great Northern Scavenger Hunt is about plugging into your community and I’d like to point out that team sports are a great way to plug into your community. Take some time to find out what leagues and clubs are in your community.
However, competitive or organized team sports may not be for everyone. Team sports can be expensive, although there is help available for families. The commitment in terms of time can be high and sometimes travel is required. Not everyone enjoys the competition of team sports, and some may feel that their skill level isn’t good enough to join.
Organized competitive team sports just aren’t what some people want to do. However, there are other ways to get involved in sports and “plug in.”
- If team sports aren’t your thing, then what about sports that are individual in nature. Sports such as martial arts, speed or figure skating, tennis, badminton, cycling or skiing can provide challenge without being part of a team.
- If the competitive nature of some sports leagues doesn’t appeal to you, consider joining a recreational league. Check out your community leisure services schedule and see what’s there. You never know what might peak your interest. Or get a bunch of friends together and have an informal game; chances are you’ll have fun and a few laughs at the end of it.
- If you want to take part in a sport, but aren’t confident in your skill level, then look for a beginner league. I didn’t start playing ice hockey until later in life and I started out in an adult beginner’s league. It turned out to be one of the best experiences I ever had. Never think you’re too old to start playing a sport either. However, if you haven’t been active for a while, it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor first and remember to start out slowly.
- If your kids are involved in sports, remember that it should be about having fun, making friends and learning about teamwork. While skill development is important, placing too much pressure on kids can result in the game becoming less enjoyable or even requests to quit the team.
Everyone can take part and build healthy lifestyles
The great thing about sports is that everyone can take part in some way or another. It doesn’t matter what age or gender you are, or what your skill level is, you can find a way to participate. Getting children involved in sport is a great way to build healthy lifestyles.
Now let’s cheer on team Canada. Better yet, let’s put on our team Canada jerseys and play some road hockey. Just remember to get off the road when someone yells “CAR!!”
Consider answering some of the sports-related questions (along with many others!) in the Great Northern Scavenger Hunt! This contest gets you out and thinking about your community's healthy activities and options - and there are great prizes to be won. Contest Closes October 02.
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