![](https://commonwealthgames.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013-ConstellationCup-G41984Li.jpg)
According to research by experts at Happify, sport can reduce stress and release endorphins.
Here’s five reasons why:
1| Research from Oregon State University suggests that we enjoy watching sports more when we know the player’s backstories and have someone to support
2| Being totally ‘in the zone’ when watching or playing sport is what’s most satisfying in an activity and is known as, ‘flow’
3| Studies consistently show, people who call themselves sports fans tend to have lower rates of depression, less stress and higher self-esteem than non-sports-fans
4| According to Daniel Wann, Ph.D. sport creates opportunities for social bonding. It can lead to close friendships and the feeling you’re part of a community
5| Psychologists say that for fans, watching sports games triggers the release of the feel good brain chemical dopamine
So, find a sport you love, get behind an athlete and follow their journey.
We’ll get you started..
Beach Volleyball
![](https://commonwealthgames.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/taliqua-clancy-234x300.jpg)
First Indigenous female to represent Australia in the Olympics. Teaming up with triple Olympian Louise Bawden, the pair are force to be reckoned with.
FOLLOW TALIQUA CLANCY
Twitter: @taliquaclancy
Instagram: @taliqua
Track & Field
![](https://commonwealthgames.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/matt-denny-300x200.jpg)
The 6 ft 5 in Australian athlete specialises in the discus throw & occasionally competes in the hammer throw.
FOLLOW MATTHEW DENNY
Twitter: @MatthewDenny
Instagram: @MattyDenny
Boxing
![](https://commonwealthgames.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/shelley-227x300.jpg)
Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist – lightweight
FOLLOW SHELLEY WATTS
Twitter: @Shelley__watts
Instagram: @Shelleywatts_boxer