A Brief Guide To The Definition Of Sport

Sports (or sport) is any forms of generally competitive physical activity that, through organised or casual participation, attempt to utilize, hone or develop various physical skill and abilities while also providing recreation for participants, and sometimes, spectators. It is a broad term that encompasses a wide variety of activities that can be taken part in by people of all ages and physical statures. It can be a source of relaxation after a hectic day at work, or a test of endurance before a competition, or simply a way to put some fun into the day. Today, sports are more popular than ever, and they can be found everywhere from ice skating, to football, to track and field, to fishing, to karate, and even yoga. Some sports require specific equipment and other supplies that may cost a bit of money, while others don’t; any physical activity that promotes good health and well being is a sport.

When it comes to the definition of a sport, as used in the Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary Tenth Edition, the word sport can mean merely sporting, or it can mean competitively conducted action. It can also mean the activity traditionally associated with a particular sport or game, such as gymnastics, baseball, swimming, basketball, horseback riding, track and field, or sailing. The first meaning is the most obvious, sports can involve physical contact and activity. The second meaning is somewhat less clear and goes along the lines of traditional sports like golf or tennis; these require specialized equipment. The third definition, which is the most inclusive, incorporates any physical activity that provides competition, entertainment, exercise, or instruction.

As it turns out, many people consider any competition, whether it be in games like basketball, softball, baseball, golf, or sailing, to be sports. Some would go as far as to define any activity that involves contact or activity as a sport. Because of this broad definition, the definition of what constitutes a sport has become a controversial topic. Many would debate the inclusion of luge, speed skating, and other winter sports in a definition of sport because the events involve primarily physical contact.