Sport is healthy – but not without risk: The dual role of sport for our body

Sport is simply part of a healthy lifestyle . It can not only help us to improve our physical fitness , but also contribute significantly to our mental balance . Whether it's running, strength training, football or yoga - the positive effects of sport on our health are manifold. But there is also a downside to the coin. If done incorrectly or overdone, sport can lead to overexertion, accidents and injuries .

In this article we take a look at the dual role of sport for our health: on the one hand as a health factor and source of well-being, and on the other hand as a potential risk factor.

The positive effects of sport on health

Regular exercise can bring numerous benefits to the body and mind. These range from supporting the cardiovascular system to mental balance. But as with many things in life, it's all about the right amount and the right execution. Here are a few examples of the positive effects of exercise on the human body:

• Improved cardiovascular health: Exercise can strengthen the heart and improve blood circulation, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

• Stronger muscles and bones: Strength training and other physical activity increase bone density and muscle strength, which can help prevent osteoporosis and muscle wasting.
• Weight regulation: Exercise can also help burn excess calories and promote a healthy metabolism.
• Mental health: Exercise promotes the release of endorphins in the body, the so-called “happiness hormones,” and reduces stress and thus the risk of depression and anxiety.

The downside: accidents, overloads and sports injuries

On the other hand, both acute events, such as a fall or an unfortunate movement, as well as long-term overload or a lack of compensatory training can increase the risk of injuries during or as a result of sports.

Some of the most common sports injuries include:

• Strains and sprains: These often occur due to sudden movements or insufficient muscle stretching.
• Torn ligaments, particularly common in the knee and ankle joints.
• Muscle injuries: Overused or insufficiently trained muscles tend to become overloaded quickly or injured easily.
• Fatigue fractures: These are small cracks in the bones caused by constant overload.

In addition to these classic injuries, long-term overload also plays a major role. This often occurs when training is too intensive or without sufficient regeneration breaks . Ambitious amateur athletes or professional athletes in particular are at risk of exceeding their limits, which can lead to long-term damage.

How can we prevent sports injuries and train in such a way that our body stays healthy in the long term? We will give you some valuable tips in this article.

One important note at the end: Before you start a regular exercise program, first ask your doctor or treating physiotherapist for advice on what is right for your body.

Looking for a physiotherapist near you? Click here.