Sport is an ever-evolving discipline, constantly growing in size and scope with new challenges presenting themselves on an annual basis. The first sport to appear on the planet was in the form of gymnastics, as mankind pursued a way out of walking the earth. With the development of techniques and more sophisticated tools, sport was born and sportsmanship became even more refined. With the Earth becoming flat and mankind walking on two legs, it was only natural that they would attempt any activity on foot.
Sport is a general term used to describe any physical activity that people engage in, whether it be a game or a systematic sporting event. It can be competitive or non-competitive; in fact any activity that allows two or more competing parties to display physical dexterity and ability. An activity involving skill and physical exertion as the main focus of this activity, where the participants all conform to some pattern of conduct and regulation where standards are continually monitored by governing bodies. In most countries, the sport can be regulated by governing bodies such as the Olympic Committee, National Hockey Stadium, or World Anti-Cancer Society. These organizations govern physical competition and protect their participants from unfair practices and harmful substances.
Sport has a long history and is far more extensive than just being a physical activity. There are many different types of sport, from archery and rugby to track and field and ice hockey. However, the most popular and widespread sport in the world today are organised sports, such as Association Football and Australian Football Federation (AFL). Football can be divided into three separate categories, the Top Flight, which includes Manchester United Football Club; the Second Division, which include English Premier League Football clubs; and Division One, which consists of teams from Europe, America, Asia and Australia. Professional sport in these three different formats is known as the sport that involves professional sport players, sport administration, sport coaches and sport facilities.
The physical aspects of sport include skills, agility, endurance, balance and muscular strength, whereas the mental aspects of sport include concentration, focus, determination, motivation, professionalism, resilience, and teamwork among others. There is no universal regulation for sport, because it is largely individual. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regulates the games of Olympic sport as well as games that occur outside the Olympic arena. There are also other organizations outside the Olympic arena such as PGA, LPGA, NCAA and British Olympic Sports Commission.
A major part of the sport is the spirit of fair competition, which is what attracts spectators to watch sporting events. It is necessary for a participant to participate in a sport in an environment that is fair to all. For example, to be a good tennis player you need to play in an environment that provides a challenge and a playing surface that is hard enough to maintain a consistent rhythm, while encouraging the participant to use their physical gifts to excel. Similarly, to be a good golfer you need to play in a putting green that encourages both the physical aspects of precision putting and the mental ability to stay focused and trust your stroke. In both sports it is important to avoid the use of illegal aids and equipment. Similarly, to be a good swimmer it is important not to use artificial fins and water skis, and to wear suitable swimming attire and safety equipment to ensure fair competition.
Sport is an important part of life and promotes health and physical fitness. Participating in recreational sports, such as baseball, tennis, softball, basketball and football can improve the health of an individual. Likewise, participating in competitive sports such as motor racing, rugby, cricket, and skating boosts self-confidence, gives pleasure and teaches valuable skills such as teamwork and respect for others. Sport can help to build and nurture good sportsmanship, which is especially important in schools where the social aspect of team-work is often lacking. Sport also allows children to experience positive social relationships and develop important life values such as fair play and respect.