Scientists Discover People Are Happier When Watching Sports, Especially Football, Basketball, Swimming…
The study was conducted by authors from Waseda University in Japan, led by Professor Shintaro Sato.
Sports fans rate their mental health higher than non-viewers – (Photo: Alamy)
Their survey, which included over 20,000 participants, revealed that sports fans rate their mental health higher than those who do not watch sports. MRI scans then showed that the “pleasure center” of the brain becomes highly active when people watch sports clips.
“This indicates that watching sports is a chemical stimulant that generates feelings of joy,” Professor Sato stated.
He also noted that the brain structure of sports supporters begins to change over time, resulting in more electrical signals in areas associated with positive emotions.
Researchers suggest that cheering for sports can release feel-good hormones in the brain, even in those who do not frequently attend live events.
Popular sports, such as swimming, football, and rugby, provide the most joy. Notably, watching live sports helps “promote a sense of community and connection.”
In the journal Sports Management Review, Professor Shintaro Sato wrote: “These findings provide insight that watching popular sports can help improve health and relationships with others.
Additionally, brain structure may gradually change, making it easier for individuals to experience greater happiness.”
