5 Health Benefits of Playing Lacrosse

If you’re thinking about trying a new sport and haven’t already tried lacrosse out yet, then it should definitely be on your to-do list! There are mental, cardiovascular, and strength benefits that come from lacrosse, which is a blend of multiple sports and is actually one of the fastest growing sports among youth players in America.

There are tons of health benefits that come from giving lax a try, so we decided to detail five different reasons why you should give it a go.

Cardiovascular Endurance

Since lax players are constantly running up and down a field that’s 110 yards long and 60 yards wide, this seems like a no-brainer! A game usually lasts between 1-2 hours, which not only helps players burn hundreds of calories, but it also allows them to build up strength in their heart and lungs, along with increasing stamina.

The more players practice and get themselves on a lacrosse field, the easier it will be to withstand that kind of physical activity.

Socialization

Joining a local lacrosse team opens up a wealth of opportunities for enhancing social skills and improving mental health. The camaraderie and team dynamics inherent in lacrosse foster a sense of belonging and support, social interaction that is crucial for mental well-being. One person can’t do it all, so it’s imperative for players of team sports to set and accomplish goals together since they’ll need the help of others to do so – whether those goals are related to an individual or a team. As players collaborate to achieve common goals, they learn the value of teamwork and mutual support, which are vital for navigating life’s challenges.

This environment encourages open communication, trust, and the formation of lifelong friendships, contributing to a positive mental health. The sense of community and belonging gained through lacrosse can significantly reduce feelings of isolation and stress, bolstering players’ overall mental health and resilience.

Coordination

Cardiovascular health is far from the only physical benefit from playing lacrosse. While it may look easy to catch a lacrosse ball in a cupped net – especially when you’re just having a catch with friends – it’s much harder to do in the middle of a game with defenders around you trying to steal the ball away.

Lacrosse allows players to train both their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, and that’s not even mentioning the jumping, running, and blocking you’ll have to do at any given point in time.

Teaches Discipline

Being a part of a team and dedicating oneself to the craft is crucial when it comes to learning the power of productive habits. Working as a team and putting in the work necessary at practice on a regular basis is the only way to see success in games on the field, and in life off of it.

These habits also include getting adequate amounts of rest, eating healthy food, and most importantly, overcoming mistakes and failure, which we all could use some help with at times.

A Full-Body Strengthening Workout

No major muscle will be left behind if you’re a lacrosse player. The act of swinging a lacrosse stick and throwing the ball works both the upper and lower arms, while cradling – a technique needed to maintain control of the ball while using the stick – needs strength in the arms, as well as range of motion. You’ll also find yourself in a number of different positions throughout a game or practice, so having strong core muscles is necessary, and your legs get an incredible workout with all the running you’ll do!

If you’re interested in learning more about our GameBreaker Lacrosse Camps this summer, start by finding a lacrosse camp near you and be on your way to becoming a better lacrosse player!