The Best And Worst Sports For Your Health (2 of 3)

Avoid this: Basketball

This one might come as somewhat of a surprise. After all, there are basketball courts everywhere whether it’s at the rec center or at the nearby park. But this is a sport that can really wreak havoc on your body in the long run. It’s a high-contact sport with no protection, you’re jumping all the time, and there are short bursts of running that can lead to serious injuries, especially as you age. Even the best-trained athletes aren’t immune to health problems. The legendary Larry Bird had to retire in his mid 30s due to nagging back problems.

Do this instead: Cycling

There are lots of benefits to cycling. First, it’s a zero-contact sport, so you gain all of the health benefits without having to worry about somebody tackling you (although American football on bikes does seem like kind of an interesting idea). You can bike at your leisure and decide whether to choose hills or flat paths, which means it’s perfect even for beginners. It is also good for managing your weight, is environmentally friendly, and can reduce the risks of having a stroke or heart attack as you age.