The concept of sports began in the late 17th century in England, during the Restoration. While the Puritans were driving traditional pastimes underground, the development of organized games began. Marylebone Cricket Club, founded in 1787, played a significant role in the development of organized games. In addition to organizing cricket games, Marylebone also helped organize games based on the principle of rational competition. Nowadays, many popular sports have their roots in the Restoration.
The ancient Chinese and Aztecs used balls and other similar items for games. These ritual performances were either noncompetitive contests or rites of passage. Some ball games were religious and secular at the same time. However, ancient Greek and Roman texts suggest that such games were more than rituals. Greek physician Galen recommended ball games for the health of the ancients, even though they were not competitive. In the 2nd century ce, Greek writers noted that the game of calcio is not a competition. It emphasizes good looks and aesthetics.
Sport is a social glue that helps us connect to our fellow humans. It also helps us overcome differences and learn to work together. The stress that we feel from competing adds to the stress we feel when we are playing sports. Nevertheless, the stress should be used as motivation and not as an obstacle. And finally, sports help us develop a positive body language. There are no limits to what we can achieve with a positive attitude. All of these are necessary qualities in a successful person.