It is estimated that Brits waste £37 million annually on gym memberships they barely use. We’ve all done it, binged over Christmas and promised ourselves that come January 1st we are going to turn over a new leaf. And, often, we do…if only until January 2nd.
The gym membership is often the most costly, and unneeded, component of this short-lived personal overhaul. Many of us feel that unless we are investing serious money in a weight-loss enterprise, we are not going to see results. Moreover, putting down a debit card gives an instant boast without you actually having to put in the hard work. The problem is, for many people, this is as far as they go.
This is not to suggest that gyms cannot help. It cannot be denied that millions across the globe have benefited from these urban temples to fitness and health. But for most, they become an unneeded drain on resources and a constant source of guilt each and every time the bank statement arrives. So, if you are one of these people, why not cut your losses and give football a try?
A study in The Guardian, overseen by expert Martyn Standage, concluded that whilst calories burned remained consistent between gym and outdoor fitness sessions of equal length, the latter proved to lead to higher energy levels throughout the day and a greater feeling of vitality. The reason given for this was that humans, having only recently moved to urban locations in the grand scheme of things, were still much more comfortable within country environments from an evolutionary standpoint.
So why not just go for a jog in park? The problem with independent routines is that not only do you have complete control of how much you actually do – or do not do – but often all you also have to focus on is the exercise itself. When doing repetitive cardio, such as jogging, there is nothing to distract you from the ache in your legs or the burn in your lungs. Moreover, gym sessions and gruelling runs generally drag by painfully because of this. This is where participating in a team sport, such as football, massively improves the exercising experience.
When you think about it, it is rather odd that so few of us play football in a country that loves sport. Whilst we will happily shiver in freezing cold stands, devote Saturdays to live broadcasts and slap down bank notes through international football betting on Bet365 , we bark at the idea of getting our boots muddy.
An organised kick about down the park is not only free, but the competitive spirt of football will mean you will not have time to register the workout you are putting your body through. Not only will you work harder when you are there, but your team-mates will make sure you are pulling your weight. Adding a social element to proceedings will only add an extra layer of enjoyment to proceedings. Meanwhile, the additional skills you develop will only compliment and emphasise the improvement to your health.
Women’s football teams of all skill levels are popping up around the country. At the same time, most teams will offer weekly training sessions for those who are not quite ready to join the first team. It will cost you next to nothing and the combination of an outdoor setting and the intoxicating thrill of competing will make you feel a hundred times better than a trip to the gym – even if you have burned less calories.
Author: Adam Davies
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