10 Reasons Why You Should Be Thankful for Sports

10 Reasons Why You Should Be Thankful for Sports

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With Thanksgiving right around the corner, it is never too early to starting thinking about what you are thankful for. Good health, loving family, and a stable income are all great reasons to be thankful. Another reason to be thankful when the holidays roll around is the role that sports play in our lives.

Sports are great for so many reasons. In my opinion, there is nothing better than cheering for a favorite team on game day. Tailgating, eating a bunch of junk food and keeping up with family traditions while taking in a big game all in the name of sports are just a few reasons that makes this amazing country of ours so great. Also, only in sports do people put aside their differences for the greater good.

Sports are huge all over the world and have been a big part of people’s lives for a very long time. The way fans adore the players who put their careers on the line every single time they step out onto a field, court or diamond is remarkable. Meanwhile, players enjoy how passionate the loyal fan bases are and the length the fans will go to support their favorite teams. In general, the interaction between the fans and players is quite amazing, which is a big part of why teams always give back as much as they can to the community.

Make sure to click through the slideshow to see the 10 reasons why you should be thankful for sports.

10. Icebreaker

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Are you nervous to meet your girlfriend’s father and unsure of how you will impress him? Good thing for you is that talking about sports is a phenomenal icebreaker. I have met so many people and made countless friends all because of sports. Whether it was playing on various teams growing up, joining a pickup game on a weeknight or talking to strangers in the airport about their favorite team, sports has always been a great conversation starter.

9. Inspiration

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Humans are capable of incredible feats and sports are typically a good way to see it first-hand. Brett Favre’s legendary Monday Night Football performance after his father died inspired so many people to get through their own personal problems. Michael Jordan’s ability to fight the flu and lead his team to victory when it mattered most showed people that anything is possible when you put your mind to it. Sports are about as inspirational as it gets and I love every second of it.

8. It’s Healthy to be a Fan

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Believe it or not, studies have shown that it’s actually healthy to be a sports fan. All of the jumping up and down, screaming and nerve-racking moments burns a couple hundred calories. Not to mention, all of the walking to and from the stadium just adds to it. Don’t forget the social interactions that have been proven to make life last longer. On the other hand, being a supporter of some teams is incredibly stressful, which isn’t healthy at all. I’m looking at you Chicago Cubs’ fans.

7. No Shame in Pigging Out

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So much delicious food is available before, during and after a sporting event. Burgers, hot dogs, chicken, steak, wings, ribs, potato salad and chips are just a few examples of great tailgating food. The best part is that no one will judge you for pigging out. Go ahead and eat that third brat with all the fixings.

6. Creates Opportunities

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Whether it’s a student getting a scholarship to play a sport in college, a professional athlete able to financially take care of his family or the thousands of jobs that are provided by each team to the general public, there is no question sports create opportunities for many people. Sports are also a way to make new friends and see new places when traveling with the team.

5. Fun Way to Exercise

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Most people have no problem exercising. Unfortunately, running on a treadmill gets tedious after a while. However, playing sports burns a large amount of activities because the body is constantly in an active state. The best part is that it’s hardly noticeable because of all of the fun that is being had.

4. The Best Reality TV

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Reality television is bringing this country down to the ground. The worst part is there really is nothing real about it, especially since several shows have been proven to be scripted. Sports are the truest form of reality television as fans get to watch first-hand the thrill of victory or the agony of defeat.

3. Ability to Get Away for a Few Hours

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With so much stress and so many responsibilities in people’s lives, every now and then it is good to escape for a few hours. Watching sports is definitely an entertaining way to take a break from the daily routine.

2. Teaches Life Lessons

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It’s common knowledge that parents should get their children involved in sports at a young age because of the numerous life lessons that can be taught. Kids will learn to work hard together, how to competitive and how to deal with consequences when not everything goes as planned, among other things. Apparently, children also can learn that bullying is not tolerated in the work force.

1. Brings Family and Friends Together

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My favorite reason to be thankful for sports is the fact that it brings family and friends together. There is nothing better than watching a game on television in a room with the ones you hold close, or being at a game surrounded by thousands of die-hard fans.