A sport is a physical activity that requires skill and is partaken in competitively. Sports also include a set of rules to which all participants must adhere.Organized sports have been played for thousands of years. They have a multitude of physical and mental benefits.
Benefits
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the physical activity in sports decreases the participant's risk of a variety of medical conditions. People who participate regularly in sports are at a decreased risk for cardiovascular diseases, obesity, a few cancers, some forms of arthritis and postural conditions. Regular participants in sports have also been shown to be healthier mentally as well.
Drawbacks
Sports are generally beneficial for your health, but people who participate in sports are at higher risk for a variety of injuries. Fractures, contusions, hernias, muscle strains, concussions, sprains and joint dislocations are all commonplace in sports. These types of injuries are especially frequent in contact sports. These injuries have a tendency to become chronic problems with athletes.
Types
There are many different types of sports. Sports can be team sports or individual events. Sports can be divided between contact or non-contact sports. Depending on the type exercise performed, sports are divided into aerobic activities and anaerobic activities. Sports that requires continuous rhythmic movements are aerobic activities. Examples of these sports are soccer, basketball, running, skating and dancing. Sports that utilize using your muscles at high intensity for short periods of time are anaerobic sports. These sports include Ice Hockey, American Football, weightlifting and power lifting.
Youth
According to the experts at the Mayo Clinic, children's sports are used to prevent obesity and promote fitness. MayoClinic.com recommends taking into account certain factors before involving your child in a sport. These factors are age, maturity and skill level. The experts at Mayo Clinic also stress the importance of using proper protective equipment for children partaking in sports.
References
- "Preventive and Social Medicine;" K. Park, J. E. Park; 1995
- "Exercise and Health;" Prof. T. A. Asmangulyan; 1997
- CDC: Safe Child: Sports Injuries
- MayoClinic: Children and Sports
- CDC: Benefits of Physical Activity
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