Social sport and exercise psychology

Sanchez, Xavier ORCID logo ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3498-0276 , Polman, Remco and Borkoles, Erika (2015) Social sport and exercise psychology. In: Steg, Linda, Buunk, Abraham P., Rothengatter, Talib and Keizer, Kees E., (eds.) Applied social psychology: understanding and managing social problems, 2nd ed. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK, pp. 342-360. Full text not available from this repository.

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Official URL: http://www.cambridge.org/9781107044081

Abstract

The physical, mental, cognitive, and health benefits of regular physical activity, exercise and sport participation are today well documented. Regular exercise positively influences most of our physiological systems and helps in protecting against, and rehabilitation of, several chronic diseases including cardiovascular disease, numerous cancers, diabetes, stroke, and metabolic disorders (e.g. obesity). It also builds muscle and strengthens bones, preventing osteoporosis. In the elderly, it helps in maintaining balance, thereby reducing the risk of falls and maintaining independent living. This is particularly important as falls and related injuries are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in people aged 65 years and older. Exercise also helps to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression and buffers against stress. Moreover, there is good evidence to suggest that regular exercise maintains brain integrity and improves cognitive functioning across the lifespan. It has been suggested that, if exercise could be packed into a pill, it would be the single most widely prescribed and beneficial medicine. Regular exercise appears to be a 'magic bullet' for human health and well-being.

Item Type: Book Section
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
ISBN: 9781107044081
Departments: Academic Departments > Medical & Sport Sciences (MSS) > Sports and Physical Activity
Additional Information: Chapter 16 within book.
Depositing User: Anna Lupton
Date Deposited: 03 May 2016 14:11
Last Modified: 12 Jan 2024 14:30
URI: https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/2117
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