Add a dash of fun to your fitness regime with badminton

Are you perpetually planning to get into a fitness routine, but are unable to act on it? How about trying a sport like badminton instead?

The Badminton World Championships 2017 are currently taking place in Glasgow, Scotland, and now is a good time to look at the health benefits of this sport. Here’s why getting out on the court can not only be a lot of fun, but will benefit your health. Can burn calories:

Badminton can definitely work up a sweat. And although you might not be as fast as two-time Olympic champion Lin “Super” Dan, a game of badminton will still get you moving and your heart rate up. Even a moderately intense workout can help prevent cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes as well as reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes.

Longer life: A large-scale study published last year looked at over 80,000 British adults found that racquet sports such as badminton, tennis, and squash lower risks of early death, with those who enjoy a game on the court benefiting from a 47% reduction in their mortality risk than those who do no exercise at all. You’ll get some fresh air:

Badminton is great to play outdoors in the summertime. Going outdoors and soaking up some vitamin D can also bring additional health benefits, including improved mental health and a reduced risk of multiple sclerosis, cardiovascular disease and asthma.