According to an extensive research project, playing soccer regularly can reduce the risk of falls and bone fractures.

50 researchers from seven countries, led by Professors Peter Krustrup and Jens Bangsbo from Department of Exercise and Sports Sciences, University of Copenhagen, have studied the physical, psychological and social aspects of soccer.

The effects of soccer on muscle strength, postural balance, bone mineral density and reflex response to a sudden push in the back among adult women and men were studied by the researchers.

It was also showed by them that regular participation in soccer increases both bone mass and bone density, causes a significant improvement in standing postural balance and improves muscle strength. Together, these effects reduce the risk of falls and bone fractures.

Peter Krustrup further said that the observed improvements in bone mineral density, strength and postural balance due to recreational soccer are of particularly interest for a large group of women but also for elderly men.

He added," It is well known that the risk of falls and fractures increases with age as a result of weaker bones, poorer balance and attenuated ability to trigger rapid muscle force, but the present results suggest that soccer - and possibly other ball games - is an effective training method to reduce bone weakening that comes with increasing age."

Krustrup also said," The research shows that 70-year-old men, who have played soccer most of their lives on a recreational basis, have just as good a balance and rapid muscle strength as untrained 30-year-olds and much better balance and muscle strength than their peers." (With inputs from Agencies)