Victorian Masters Sport Resource Kit - Australian Sports Commission

involvement in physical activity. Specific
physiological health benefits include:
◗ decreased risk of coronary heart disease,
diabetes, colon cancer, incidence of
strokes and osteoporosis,
◗ control of body weight,
◗ increased cardio-vascular health, and
◗ reduced hypertension.
Physical Benefits
Photo: National Sport Information Centre
of the Australian Sports Commission
Increasing physical fitness is often cited by
participants as the most effective factor as to
why people participate in sport, as the effects
are “felt” and readily identified.
Physical benefits include:
◗ strengthening of bones,
◗ improved muscle movement and strength,
◗ reduced likelihood of falls in older age,
◗ improved flexibility, balance and coordination,
and
◗ posture and weight maintenance.
Mental Health
Sport also improves people’s mental health
and is an effective way to overcome stress.
Mental health benefits include:
◗ improved cognition,
◗ increased motivation,
◗ decreased mood shifts, depression and
anxiety, and
◗ improvements in self concept and selfesteem.
Photo: Vince Caligiuri/The Age Photo Sales Photo: Darebin City Council
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3. Benefits of Masters Sport