The word “sport” is used as a general term to describe a number of structured competitions or sporting events that occur with the common goal of a winner. Sports (or sporting) is any form of typically competitive physical activity that, through organised or casual competition, attempt to utilize, develop or enhance specific physical skill and ability while also providing entertainment for participants, and occasionally, spectators. There are many types of sports, ranging from indoor summer activities to high-mileage road races, international sports tournaments, and individual sports between friends and family members.
Horse riding is one of the oldest sports in history, and perhaps the most well-known physical skill required by most modern sports. The sport of horse riding has evolved significantly throughout time and remains highly competitive. Riders must master the art of equestrian exercise, stretching, and strengthening to build endurance and coordination, as well as, cardiovascular strength and resistance to illness and injury. In recent years, more people have begun to take an interest in equestrian sports because of the increase in equestrian activities at major equestrian shows.
Another important type of sport is mental sports. This is the realm of “mind sports” where athletes try to use their cognitive and emotional skills against rivals, sometimes using training devices such as mind-blowing music or funny games such as a game show. Mental sports are not based on natural talent or physical skill, but must be practiced repeatedly in order to become proficient. Today, many people focus on developing their mental skills through practice, especially in the competitive arena. Others even go so far as to seek out professional tutoring to help them develop their skills in this particular area. Developing a mind-body connection can have profound impacts on sports and activities.
While most people only associate physical skills with sports, it is actually possible to develop both types of skills simultaneously through consistent exercise and stretching. It is also possible to develop both types of skills through non-exertion of energy (such as meditation) and/or controlled breathing. When thinking about developing your athletic performance, keep in mind the importance of each, as well as the possibilities that both can combine to create a more productive athlete.
Finally, another example of a sport where both the mind and the body came together in meaningful ways is kayaking. Kayaking requires both physical exertion and mental exertion. While the water may seem flat and offer little challenge, the kayaker must master the art of picking up and placing themselves into various swimming and floating positions, all of which require an incredible amount of focus and awareness. For this reason, kayaking is an excellent example of both sports and health.
Of course, there is no clear-cut answer as to what constitutes a sport. Generally speaking, the word “sport” describes any physical activity that requires both an extreme degree of concentration and a degree of athleticism. The only problem with defining sports is that many activities that fit this bill are not recognized by the NCAA and other major sport leagues. Additionally, sports have become increasingly competitive over the past twenty years, making it difficult for athletes to participate in sanctioned meets that would otherwise be deemed competitive. In these cases, it has been determined that the activity warrants its own classification as a sport. Therefore, any athletic activities that fall under these broad umbrella’s include, but are not limited to, swimming, baseball, softball, soccer, basketball, motorcycling, skiing, or biking, hiking, cheerleading, baseball, rugby, lacrosse, track and field, and more.