Sports (or physical sport) is any type of generally competitive physical activity that, though not exclusively competitive, aim to employ, utilise or enhance physical aptitude and skills in order that, through organised or casual participation, provide entertainment for participants, and at some occasions, spectators. In most societies, sports are universally practiced and encouraged by associations and teams whose primary goals are to promote good health and well-being through active participation in recreational sports activities such as athletics, gymnastics, golf, sailing, tennis, polo, track and field, swimming, hiking, cycling, etc. The popularity of the different games and sporting events (e.g., football, soccer, rugby, hockey, basketball, cricket, etc.) as well as the various equipment and support systems have grown tremendously over the last few decades due to improvements in sports facilities and equipment. However, despite these developments, many people still find it difficult to enjoy their favorite sports.
Participation in sports may be voluntary or non-voluntary, and may be associated with a personal or communal cause. Voluntary participation refers to involvement that is undertaken in order to promote social, political, economic or communal objectives, or for the development of specific human, social, economic, cultural or national groups. Non-voluntary sports may be associated with competitive activities for monetary or other rewards. Many people also participate in sports to socially interact with others and to maintain or increase fitness.
Sport can be broadly classified into two main categories: physical contact sports that involve only an attempt to hit, tackle, throw or block an opponent. Based on this classification, the types of athletic events can be further divided into three main groups: athletic competition, endurance competition and sports that are more generally recognised as games. Among the most popular outdoor and indoor sports are ice hockey, golf, horse racing, badminton, tennis, soccer, softball, cricket, swimming and surfing. In addition, there are many other less well-known sports activities.
Each of the mentioned physical fitness activities has various subcategories. As an example, ice hockey consists of two different divisions: ice hockey players and officials. A competitive sports player performs to the best of his or her ability in a bid to win a match or competition. The players are usually professional sportsmen and women who have been professionally trained and are able to perform at an optimum level. The athletes perform under the supervision of an assigned coach or trainer who assesses their skills and directs them towards specific goals. The players, their training coaches and the referees all cooperate in order to produce the best possible game.
The brain sports encompass a wide range of activities that engage the brain and use it as a tool in solving problems and making decisions. Among the most popular international sports are chess and trivia games such as those that require deduction, analysis, calculation and visualization skills, such as Trivial Pursuit. Brain sports have become extremely popular among people who are interested in improving their mind skills for everyday life situations. For example, solving brain related problems such as studying multiplication tables without constant practice, learning to count by twos and threes and mastering mnemonics are some of the activities included in mastering brain sports.
All the main article categories in this article consist of physical activity that improves brain function. The activities for each category vary and can be broadly classified according to the main goals and objectives of the participants. The activities are further categorized into sports and non-sports events. In order to be successful in any of these activities, it is important to know the main article and other important information such as specific sport requirements and other resources that can help you make the right choice.