How netball could improve your fitness and your social life
If you're not a fan of the gym and you don't really like the idea of fitness classes because you would prefer to be playing a competitive game, then netball could be just the sport for you.
Although it may be a game that most people won't have played since they left school, netball is having something of revival lately, with teams and friendly leagues springing up all over the UK.
What's more, it will allow you to indulge your love of competition without fear of leaving each match battered and bruised, because it is a non-contact sport.
It may not be the same as you remember from many years ago though, as men are now encouraged to participate and English Netball has implemented 'Engagement Frameworks' to ensure every participant gets the best out of their involvement at every level.
However, this is much less serious than it sounds and netball is still fun, fast and hugely engaging for people of all ages.
To start with, you'll have to have a look around in your local area to find a team to join - this shouldn't be too difficult as there are lots throughout Britain.
Then, it's just a case of familiarising yourself with the rules - don't run with the ball, only move one foot once you've caught it and stay within your designated area - and you're away!
Not only should you have a great time, but you should also see the benefits to your body almost straight away.
Emma Batchelor, team physiotherapist for England's national netball squad, recently told The Telegraph that the sport is a really good workout thanks to all the twisting, reaching and jumping.
"Netball is a high-energy game with lots of changes of pace and direction of play. This, coupled with the stop-start nature of the game, increases the body's cardio capacity and improves overall agility," she commented.
Emma also pointed out that it's brilliant for improving bone density and keeping osteoporosis at bay, although you will need some good trainers and to warm up properly to avoid injuries to your ankles and knees.
Once you've got back into netball, you're sure to find that it will keep you fit and allow you to make new friends too!
Although it may be a game that most people won't have played since they left school, netball is having something of revival lately, with teams and friendly leagues springing up all over the UK.
What's more, it will allow you to indulge your love of competition without fear of leaving each match battered and bruised, because it is a non-contact sport.
It may not be the same as you remember from many years ago though, as men are now encouraged to participate and English Netball has implemented 'Engagement Frameworks' to ensure every participant gets the best out of their involvement at every level.
However, this is much less serious than it sounds and netball is still fun, fast and hugely engaging for people of all ages.
To start with, you'll have to have a look around in your local area to find a team to join - this shouldn't be too difficult as there are lots throughout Britain.
Then, it's just a case of familiarising yourself with the rules - don't run with the ball, only move one foot once you've caught it and stay within your designated area - and you're away!
Not only should you have a great time, but you should also see the benefits to your body almost straight away.
Emma Batchelor, team physiotherapist for England's national netball squad, recently told The Telegraph that the sport is a really good workout thanks to all the twisting, reaching and jumping.
"Netball is a high-energy game with lots of changes of pace and direction of play. This, coupled with the stop-start nature of the game, increases the body's cardio capacity and improves overall agility," she commented.
Emma also pointed out that it's brilliant for improving bone density and keeping osteoporosis at bay, although you will need some good trainers and to warm up properly to avoid injuries to your ankles and knees.
Once you've got back into netball, you're sure to find that it will keep you fit and allow you to make new friends too!
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