Sports are a form of physical activity that aims to develop physical fitness and mental health through competition. They also provide entertainment and a sense of achievement to participants.
Sport is a common and popular way to spend leisure time, especially in developed countries. It is a major source of economic wealth and is a cultural phenomenon that has an influence on many aspects of society.
It is a social institution that plays an important role in the lives of people all over the world, from young children to elderly citizens. It reflects national identity and often provides a sense of patriotism.
There are many different types of sports, ranging from simple contests between two individuals to those with hundreds of participants competing simultaneously. In some sports, winning is determined by physical events; in others, judges score the sporting performance.
The rules of a particular sport determine how the game is played, what equipment is required, and how it is judged. These rules may be formal or informal.
Generally, only activities that are based on physical athleticism or dexterity qualify as sports; other competitive, but non-physical, activities can claim recognition as “mind sports”.
The emergence and diffusion of modern sports has been accompanied by unequal power relations between groups, largely dominated by Western countries. These patterns of power are reflected in the socialisation of sports and their associated institutions, including professional leagues, federations, sportswear and equipment manufacturers, and media companies.