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Mesoamerican ball game was first conceived in 1000 B.C. by the Aztecs. Now it is rarely played in the states.
Since the game is so old and has been played by many different cultures, there are many different ways to play. It originated as a family sport, and in Spanish they call it juego de pelota.
This game is now usually played by natives in the far southern areas of South America. However, this fun family sport can be enjoyed by everyone; all you need is a massive courtyard, a brick wall and a cement hoop vertically built into the aforementioned wall.
In typical Mesoamerican ball they used a nine pound ball that was made completely from rubber, but these days you can just use a red kick ball if so desired. Using a lighter ball might decrease the possible chance of fractured hips or pelvises.
The game is played by running around the court while keeping the ball from touching the ground. The only difference from this and modern football is you are not allowed to hold it.
You may only touch the ball with your hips and stomach, and accidental pelvis contact is not illegal either. Using your hips you pass the ball between you and your team mates until you get to the hoop.
The hoop is placed about ten feet from the ground, and the first team to put the ball through the hoop wins. In some variant forms of the game you can actually acquire points by hitting the hoop with the ball as well.
Back in ancient times the victors would be celebrated among the city, whereas the losers would be sacrificed to the gods. This portion of the game is not enforced in the states any more.
Playing Mesoamerican ball game is a great way to stay fit, the constant running and hip thrusting will work both your core and your cardio intensely. Many people do not exercise their hips properly.
The hips are a very important part of the body; keeping them strong will profit numerous movements and also benefit your balance. The simple act of bending down to pick up a fallen pencil requires hip strength, so it is crucial that we exercise it properly and routinely.
Improving your cardio through Mesoamerican ball game will increase your heart's ability to use blood. The better your cardio, the easier it is for your heart to pump blood to all your extremities.
Blood flow is necessary for healthy maintenance of all our tissues and organs; without fresh blood we would start to turn red and probably start decomposing like a rotten vegetable.
So find a way you can incorporate Mesoamerican ball with your family. Even if it's with a cheap red kick ball, this will keep you all healthy and happy. Destry Masterson is a health, fitness and nutrition expert. She has written articles about diet and exercise and recommends http://www.treadmillsensei.com for information about treadmills.
Contact Info:
Destry Masterson - MyOnlineArticleWriting@gmail.com - Twitter: @DestryMasterson
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