Ahead of Lakshya Sen’s bronze medal match at Olympics, know how playing badminton enhances overall health

Indian badminton sensation Lakshya Sen has etched his name in Olympic history by advancing to the semi-finals in his debut appearance at the Games. While he fell short of a silver on Sunday, the athlete making his debut this year is all set to play his bronze medal match today.

The 22-year-old’s remarkable achievement not only showcases his exceptional talent and dedication but also highlights the growing prominence of badminton on the global stage. Sen’s journey from a promising young player to an Olympic semi-finalist serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across India and beyond.

While his success captivates audiences worldwide, badminton itself offers numerous benefits to players of all skill levels. This fast-paced sport, often perceived as a casual backyard pastime, is a powerful tool for enhancing overall health and well-being.

Chetendra Pratap Singh, district physical education officer, Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, agrees, “This sport offers an array of benefits for both body and mind.”

Benefits for cardiovascular health

Singh says, “Badminton involves a whirlwind of quick movements — lunging, jumping, diving, and sprinting. This constant activity elevates heart rate, improving efficiency and strengthening muscles. Research suggests that regular badminton can significantly increase VO2 max (the maximum amount of oxygen your body can utilise during exercise), a key indicator of cardiovascular fitness.”

By strengthening your heart and improving its efficiency, he says, badminton helps to reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. It promotes healthy cholesterol levels and improves blood circulation, ensuring your cardiovascular system is top shape.

Badminton is a calorie-torching machine. A vigorous game can burn up to 450 calories per hour, making it an effective way to manage weight and maintain a healthy body composition.

Badminton requires pinpoint accuracy and hand-eye coordination to hit the shuttlecock precisely. (Source: Freepik)

How badminton can enhance agility and coordination

Badminton is a sport that demands quick reflexes, lightning-fast footwork, and precise hand-eye coordination, informs Singh. With every smash, lunge, and net shot, you’re honing these skills, which translate to benefits beyond the court.

The constant changes in direction and explosive movements required in badminton train your body to react quickly and efficiently. This improved agility can enhance your performance in other sports and even everyday activities.

Singh states, “Badminton requires pinpoint accuracy and hand-eye coordination to hit the shuttlecock precisely. This constant practice sharpens your reflexes and fine motor skills, which can benefit activities like playing musical instruments or even typing on a keyboard.”

Maintaining balance while lunging, jumping, and twisting is essential in badminton. This training improves your core strength and overall stability, reducing your risk of falls and injuries in daily life.

Badminton’s impact mental well-being

Physical activity, like badminton, triggers the release of endorphins, Singh mentions, those feel-good hormones that act as natural stress relievers. The focus required during a game also helps to clear your mind and distract you from everyday worries.

“Regular badminton play can contribute to improved mood and a reduced risk of depression and anxiety. The sense of accomplishment and social interaction associated with the sport can further enhance your emotional well-being,” he adds.

The strategic thinking and quick decision-making required in badminton can enhance cognitive function, memory, and concentration. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can even promote the growth of new brain cells.

Age-specific considerations

Badminton is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. However, certain age groups can tailor their training to maximise specific benefits, according to Singh:

Children and Adolescents: Badminton can be a fun and engaging way for kids to develop their motor skills, coordination, and social skills. Focus on fun and games, gradually increasing the intensity and complexity of drills as they grow.

Adults: Badminton offers a great way to stay active, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight. Consider joining a club or league to add a social element to your workouts.

Older Adults: Badminton can help improve balance, flexibility, and cognitive function, which are crucial for healthy ageing. Start with low-intensity play and gradually increase the duration and intensity as your fitness improves.

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