Gambling can be exhilarating and it’s known to get the blood flowing, but long hours at the gaming table or in front of a screen can take a toll on your body and mind.
Integrating fitness routines into your gambling lifestyle can have remarkable benefits, not only for your overall health but also for your focus and energy levels.
Here are some exercises and health routines that are tailor-made for gamblers. If you’re looking to improve your gaming performance, read on.
The Power of Exercise for Gamers
Regular physical activity has been proven to increase cognitive function and boost mental clarity. By engaging in exercise, you can enhance your ability to concentrate, make better decisions and stay sharp during those intense gaming sessions.
Exercise can be an incredible energy booster if you feel drained after a long gaming session. It stimulates the release of endorphins, providing a natural and sustainable source of energy that will keep you alert and ready to take on the next challenge.
Lastly, sitting for extended periods can lead to stiffness and reduced mobility. Regular exercise promotes joint flexibility, prevents muscular imbalances and enhances overall physical health, which reduces the risk of gaming-related injuries.
Different Exercises for Gamblers
A study has found that gamers who increased the amount of exercise they did in a week also improved their international gaming ranks by 75%. Their concentration levels improved by 33%, while their anxiety decreased by 43%.
Gamblers should look at incorporating exercises from the three different exercise groups below.
1. Mobility Exercises
Prioritize mobility to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting. Incorporate exercises such as neck circles, shoulder rolls, wrist stretches and hip flexor stretches to loosen up tight muscles and improve the range of motion.
2. Strength Training
Build functional strength with bodyweight exercises such as squats, lunges, push-ups and planks. Strength training not only improves physical performance but also helps to prevent gaming-related muscle fatigue.
3. Cardiovascular Fitness
Boost your endurance and cardiovascular health with activities such as jogging, cycling or skipping. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio several times a week to reap the benefits.
Cardio can be especially helpful after a long day of gambling, where you’re likely to feel wiped out. No matter how much money you’ve won or lost, why not step away from the action for a little while and blow off some steam?
Ways to Stay Active During Gaming Breaks
You shouldn’t do anything for hours on end without a break. Whether you spend your days painting houses, typing up reports or gambling, get into the habit of taking regular breaks.
Taking a break will give your body and mind a chance to rest and relax. It’ll also allow you to regain your composure after a series of bad beats at the casino. Incorporating movement into these breaks can further enhance your thinking processes.
Micro Workouts
Utilize short breaks during gaming sessions to perform quick exercises. Set a five-minute timer and do a mini workout, incorporating movements such as jumping jacks, burpees or bodyweight squats. You can even get a cardio session in if you have an exercise bike or treadmill.
Stretching Routine
Take a moment to stretch your body during breaks. Stretching helps prevent stiffness and improves blood circulation, keeping you refreshed and ready to tackle the next gaming round.
Long hours of gaming can put stress on your lower back and wrists (think about repetitive hand and finger movements in jackpot slots and online slots.) It’s recommended that you stretch before and after gaming, too, just to keep your body flexible and to improve mobility and stability — which are important for reducing stress on your body.
Walk and Talk
If you’re engaged in casino games online with friends, consider having walking meetings while you strategize. Taking a stroll outside not only keeps you active but also adds a refreshing change of scenery.
Other Factors to Consider to Improve Performance
So far we’ve focussed on exercise and how to stay fit, but these won’t improve your gambling performance alone unless they’re complemented with other things such as a good diet and getting enough sleep. These healthy habits are unpacked further below.
Go for a Walk Before a Gaming Marathon
If you’re planning on spending an entire day playing blackjack or some other game at the casino or online casino, it’s a good idea to take a walk outside before doing so. Taking in some fresh air can help you eliminate stress, boost your immune system and increase your happiness levels.
You’ll also get your blood flowing and get to stretch out some of your muscles so that they don’t tighten up on you while you’re sitting around deciding whether to stay or hit on a hand of blackjack.
Eat Well and Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement of gambling and forget to eat your three meals a day. Set an alarm to remind yourself to step away from your bets to eat. It’ll give your body the nourishment it needs and make your brain function more efficiently.
A balanced diet, that is, eating from the five main food groups, is recommended. Don’t forget that sports nutrition experts advise that gamers focus on a high-protein diet.
Secondly, staying hydrated is critical for peak gaming performance. Higher hydration levels are known to boost alertness and focus. Aim for 6-8 glasses of liquid daily, including water, lower-fat milk or sugar-free drinks.
Getting Enough Sleep
Adequate sleep is essential but often overlooked, especially among gamers. Sleep recharges the body and improves concentration — something you really need for optimal gaming performance.
It’s suggested that adults need at least seven hours per night. A late-night gaming routine impacts sleep quality due to the blue light from screens, which stops the production of melatonin (the hormone that makes you sleepy.) It’s best to have an hour of screen-free time before bedtime for better rest.
Practice Your Fitness Routine With BetMGM
Incorporating a fitness routine into your gambling lifestyle can be a game-changer for both your physical and mental well-being. Exercise enhances focus, lifts energy levels and promotes overall health during gaming sessions.
By taking active breaks and complementing your routine with a balanced diet, hydration and quality sleep, you can enhance your gaming performance. Prioritize your wellbeing, register with BetMGM and practice your new fitness routine.
