5 Top Health Benefits of Playing Rugby - Ruck

5 Top Health Benefits of Playing Rugby

Rugby is a sport with an extremely high level of physical activity. It not only makes the players physically fit but also mentally too. 

So, what exactly are the Health Benefits of Playing Rugby? Let’s have a look –

1. Cardiovascular fitness

Rugby can improve your body’s cardiovascular system which transports blood, oxygen, and nutrients through your body. It does so by maintaining a healthy weight and improving your level of fitness. The very nature of the game is such that it requires extreme physical effort in the form of running, sprinting and tackling opponents. This kind of exercise builds a strong heart which functions more efficiently.

With a preliminary study stating that rugby players cover an average distance of 4.45 km to 6.84km in a single game, you get the opportunity to burn ample calories and the benefit of an increased stamina!

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 07: (Re-transmission of #491690038 with alternative crop) Bryan Habana of South Africa goes over for their third try during the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool B match between South Africa and USA at Olympic Stadium on October 7, 2015 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

2. Improvement in bone health

Playing rugby regularly can work magic on your body by toning the muscles of the forelimbs, hind limbs and chest. Moreover, the movements made during the game put stress on the bones. When the stress is above normal levels, it stimulates the deposition of calcium along the stress points. This increases your bone density. The advantage of this? You safeguard yourself from developing osteoporosis in the future!


3. Improved mental wellbeing

Did you know that a sport like rugby can also help improve your mental wellbeing? Team games like rugby can help people with mild depression. It gives participants a sense of belonging and purpose that is often lacking in people who suffer from anxiety and depression.

Moreover, the sense of companionship with teammates helps people have a more positive frame of mind and develop a strong support system.

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