Sports (or sporting) is any forms of generally competitive physical activity that, through organised or casual competition, attempt to employ, develop or enhance physical ability and abilities while offering entertainment for participants, and sometimes, spectators. There are many different types of sports, but the most common are ice skating, swimming, rugby, golf, tennis and soccer. In some countries, golf is considered to be a sport, although in the United States it is primarily a recreational activity. Some sports demand advanced training and equipment, others are simple and easy to learn and perform. There are many sub-sports within these main sports, including fencing, motor racing, horse riding, gymnastics, cycling, baseball, softball and cricket. Many other activities, not mentioned here, have become popular as accessories to sports and athletic events.
As in other forms of physical activity, there are rules governing the conduct of certain sports events. These rules are set down by government agencies such as the National Basketball Association or the National Football League. The International Olympic Committee sets down standards for sportsmanship. It also determines which games can be considered a sport, or which can be regarded as being comparable to sports. In the United States, the major coordinating body is the National Futures Association.
A sport involves exertion of physical dexterity, mental alertness, physical stamina or power, or any combination of these. Sports competition generally requires athletes to wear the proper equipment, use appropriate techniques and take part in competitive events. In many ways, the essence of sports is the competition of who can exhibit the highest level of athletic ability, with the ultimate goal being victory. Competitive sports can range from games of speed and agility, weightlifting to fencing.
Sports, whether indoors or outdoor, are an important way of getting healthy and maintaining fitness levels. For example, while playing volleyball in the sand may not involve too much physical activity, the same cannot be said for beach volleyball. Similarly, while snowboarding may not require too much physical activity, it can be difficult to ski. In addition, some games such as baseball and basketball require considerable physical activity. In addition, certain outdoor activities such as snowshoeing, cross country skiing and sledding require a great deal of coordination, balance, strength and stamina.
One area that is often overlooked in efforts to promote physical fitness and health is non-traditional sports, such as yoga, swimming, cheerleading, dance troupes and sports such as horseback riding and mountain biking. Not all these activities require the same degree of skill or physical fitness. In fact, many sports require very little skill or fitness at all. This is one area where it is a wise investment to invest your time and money rather than paying for a degree. Since it does not require the same level of skill and fitness as other sports, non-traditional activities are much lower in cost and can prove to be a great way to connect with others while developing your personal leadership skills and self-discipline.
The fact of the matter is that there are countless ways that you can participate in physical fitness and sport. Many of these activities are readily available to anyone who cares to take the time to search for them. By engaging in a wide variety of sports and non-traditional activities, you can ensure that you develop not only a great level of skill and physical fitness but also develop an understanding of the different aspects of sports and how they should be structured for your particular age and personality.
