In most cases, sport is governed by a set of rules and customs that are designed to keep the competition fair, while allowing for consistent adjudication of the winner. In some cases, the winning team or player is determined by physical events, while in others, a third party scores certain elements of a sporting performance. These factors can be objective or subjective. In any case, there are benefits to participating in sports, including improved performance and mental health.
Participating in sport helps develop social skills, such as teamwork and cooperation. Students are taught to be emotionally strong and accept defeats and triumphs as part of the process. Sports also provide an outlet for self-expression, which is a crucial aspect of being an adult. As a result, the positive effects of participating in sports may extend well beyond the playing field. The following are some of the ways that sports promote social development and overall health. For example, students who participate in sports will learn how to build relationships with teammates and coach, and how to accept failure.
Early forms of sports date back to the prehistoric era. In ancient times, the Aztecs and Chinese played ball games. While these ancient games were not competitions, they were noncompetitive rituals that involved physical activity. Ancient Greeks were also active in sports, with games dedicated to Zeus. Ancient Greeks traveled to different parts of the world to watch the games. As a result, many ancient Greeks became interested in sports and began to participate.