Sport and being active are such an important part of our lives, there are many health and even social benefits. In this article, Member of Youth Parliament nominee, Tallis tells us why sports are our superpower.
You may be wondering why this is relevant to you but trust me it is. Participating in sports and exercise can truly change the way you look at life and how you approach it. Not only can it be a lot of fun, but clubs and groups are an amazing way to make friends and socialise all while doing something that is beneficial to you.
Did you know that there are 151,000 sports clubs in the UK! (Of course, this was an approximate number, but you get the idea)
When I was a bit younger, I really didn’t enjoy sports. I never thought I would be good enough and I was worried that if I tried to join a club at school that I would be judged and wouldn’t make friends. Eventually a friend and I tried a local running club, and surprisingly I really enjoyed it. Even though I didn’t like running, I had done nothing like it before but enjoyed the challenge. After every session I would feel that runners ‘high’, but this feeling of endorphins is not only a running thing. By taking part in activities that move your body you are enjoying free ‘feel good’ hormones. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain relievers and mood elevators.
I know that for some people doing sports is not easy for a number of reasons. That’s why there are alternatives to getting the benefits if going to an after-school club or community group are just not for you. By doing something like walking to school you are:
- Improving heart health
- Strengthening bones
- Boosting mood
- And even helping you sleep!
The other thing that I love is meeting new people and having an excuse to spend time with my friends and making new friends every week while I do exercise. Remembering that you are doing it for yourself and nobody else is very important as well.
So, make it something you enjoy and not something you feel you have to do. Exercise should be fun and unique for you. And don’t forget it can be your hidden superpower!
Tallis
Nominations are open for the next Somerset Members of Youth Parliament!
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Youth Parliament Elections, where young people aged 11-18 years who live, go to school or college in Somerset can self-nominate for the chance to represent their peers, campaign on issues that matter to young people and represent Somerset on the national stage.
For more information about the elections and to self-nominate, visit https://somersetyouthparliament.org.uk/elections/
