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The physical benefits of participating in team sports is well known and well documented. A recent research study conducted by the University of West Virginia investigated the effect of team sport participation and student’s self-image.  The results were astonishing.

Researchers interviewed 245 middle-school teenagers to determine how they felt about their overall physical health and their satisfaction with life.  Here’s what they found out.  In general, teenagers who participated in team sports viewed themselves as healthier and were more satisfied with their lives, then teenagers who did not participate in team sports.  Both boys and girls reported that they were more likely to describe the over health as poor if they weren’t active in sports. You can get your children more active by hiring a trainer to encourage them. Go to http://www.411.ca for more information.

Physical education educators and coaches have long promoted the beneficial effects of team participation.  Team sports helps teens set and achieve goals.  It instills inner discipline and rewards perseverance and determination.  In addition, participating in team sports, gives teens coping skills that help them in other aspects of their lives.

The social aspects of team sports give teens the opportunity to form deep and lasting friendships centered on shared experiences. It teaches teens the value of a group effort and working towards a common goal.

When one in twenty teens is sedentary and more than half of all teens don’t participate in any sport, the University of West Virginia’s study is a wakeup scream for help to parents and educators.  Team sports and physical activity are key to the physical and mental well-being of teens.