There are lots of reasons why universities should invest in better athletic and wellness facilities, and the benefits don’t just revolve around sports.

We know that recreation facilities create happy, healthy communities. This is especially true for a population’s youth. The right guidance is key to a child’s development, and the continued support given to high school and college kids prepares them for life’s challenges. These are some of the advantages that universities enjoy when they provide students with quality sports and wellness infrastructure.

1. Boosting Enrollment

Most universities run and operate through it’s student’s tuition fees. Attracting promising young minds is a significant priority for every school administration. Offering attractive sports and wellness programs can enhance a campus, which gets curious kids and parents more interested in enrollment. Investing in recreation facilities and supporting college sports will yield long-term financial benefits, as well as create brand prestige via representation in national events.

2. Improving Academic Performance

Physical activity has been proven to not just increase fitness and health, but also intelligence. The delivery of higher levels of oxygen to the brain boosts the mind’s power. Exercise also spurs neuron growth and releases beneficial hormones, which are essential to brain health. Aerobic exercise sharpens cognitive abilities, lifting weights improves memory, and yoga facilitates the fulfillment of mental tasks. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) can contribute to longer attention spans and clearer focus. A 2014 study by Michigan State University (MSU) found that its students who were members of campus recreation and fitness centers exhibited higher cumulative GPAs, more credits completed, and increased retention rates during their first two years in college.

3. Developing Social Skills

Sports clubs and group-oriented fitness programs help kids interact with each other outside the confines of a classroom. Such activities bring individuals together from different school levels, backgrounds, and departments. They forge stronger bonds between diverse groups—helping college students sharpen valuable social skills involved in mingling, competition, and cooperation.

4. Attracting Usage with Quality

Upgrading existing athletic and wellness centers has been proven, time and again, to increase usage. Better fitness facilities and well-maintained recreational spaces can even motivate first-timers to visit and start active lifestyles. Expanding on facilities by adding new sports programs and wellness centers offers students more opportunities to compete, interact, unlock their physical potentials, and learn about holistic health. Variety gives them more chances to explore their own interests, hobbies, and capabilities.

5. Building Stronger, Safer Communities

Sharing experiences, challenges, and achievements through sports and recreation connects students closely with each other, faculty members, a school, and the community. Encouraging participation in healthy activities can shift the focus of at-risk youths from anti-social behavior to positive pursuits. This greater sense of belonging and increased confidence can also prevent drug use, foster respect, and prevent crime. A community that provides care, coaching, and well-rounded education for its youngsters is a safe and prosperous one.

Sports and recreation programs create real social change in colleges all over the world. Contact E-Sports International to learn how we can help your school join the global movement towards mindful wellness through sports facilities.

Photo credits:

Images are from UA&P, Yahoo News, and Inquirer Sports.