Southerners Can Play Hockey for Their Health, Too
By Tom Herrin
Sometimes people tend to feel that they are limited to games that are regional or something that is well-known in their area. This does not have to be the case. When people are looking for better exercise, there are plenty of options out there. Years ago, baseball seemed like a game that was made for the south and warmer weather, while games such as hockey seemed more suited for the colder climates. Some of this was because most people related hockey with ice and cold. Field hockey is a game that may be played anywhere, just like soccer. It can be great as a family game or something that can involve a group of friends. Whichever may be the case, it can be fun and a good way to improve health.
It May Improve Strength
Many people really fail to do things that test them physically. Their daily routines are often pretty plain, and they may seem content with it. Field hockey naturally includes plenty of movement. As people run or jog, they must also be able to use a stick to maneuver the puck or ball. As a result, many of the core muscles may get some valuable work. This can carry over to other activities, improving strength to perform them.
It Can Improve Endurance
At first glance, it seems that a lot of people lack endurance. They may be seen huffing and puffing at the slightest activity. Endurance is needed for the body to become more efficient at using the fuel that supplies it. Since there is quite a bit of off-and-on running, the body has an opportunity to adjust and make real improvements in its endurance. This is the nature of the best endurance-building activities.
It May Build Speed
While most people probably are not too terribly concerned about increasing speed as they age, whenever you can do it, it can be a good thing. Better speed may carry over into accident prevention or other things that you may never consider. Speed and quickness are a natural result of an activity such as hockey when it is necessary to react to a puck, or ball, when it is moving at a higher rate of speed. I really enjoy this game. It challenges me, even though I am well past the age when speed is a concern of mine. It is simply fun and gets me moving. The best part is that I can play it with others my age or grandkids, whichever is available.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bluffton, S.C.