An Overview of Popular Participated Sports
Sports (or sports) can be broadly classified into two major categories; physical and mental activities. Sports are generally competitive or physically demanding physical activity that, through either organized or informal competitive participation, attempt to employ, hone or enhance physical prowess and abilities, while also providing entertainment for participants, and occasionally, spectators, in the process. A number of other commonly associated sports activities include gymnastics, tennis, racquetball, badminton, fencing and swimming. It is perhaps in this latter context, when considering sports for the mind, that we should take stock and consider its true meaning and potential benefits.
It would appear at a cursory glance that exercising or engaging in any form of physical activity seems to offer the benefit of improving one’s health. However, there are a number of factors that must be taken into account prior to any such conclusion being drawn. One such factor would be that most people nowadays eat a large amount of highly calorie dense foods, which make them obese and increase their chances of developing a number of medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and related conditions. The Sedentary lifestyle that most people lead, together with their lack of exercise, also increases these risks. Therefore, the beneficial effects of engaging in sports activities, while providing at least some exercise, seem somewhat counteracted by these negative aspects.
Cricket and soccer, arguably two of the most well-known sports, appear to offer the most benefits to those wishing to engage in a physical activity, yet another factor to consider is that the vast majority of adults in North America (and much of the rest of the world), don’t participate in organized sports. While it would seem that participation in organized sport may provide the physical benefits of resistance training (which is known to have positive health benefits), most adults remain sedentary in the face of such lack of physical stimulation. Another obvious but little understood benefit of sports is that it provides something of a social outlet. Sport can provide an arena for friendships to be built, especially in those instances where friends and family find themselves isolated due to personal issues (for example, divorce, conflict or other social factors).
When it comes to selecting from the different types of exercises which provide the different types of mental and physical benefits, it may become necessary to consider a few alternative options. Yoga, for example, offers many different types of exercise positions which can help people develop flexibility, balance, strength and posture. Not only that, the poses in yoga are relatively easy to learn and can be easily modified to accommodate different types of fitness needs. Another option for those looking for a change of pace may be to look at something such as Pilates, a system which involves the use of a series of poses geared towards achieving overall wellness. Another unique aspect of this particular type of exercise is that the poses can be modified or changed to fit an individual’s frame of mind (ie: someone may want to use a certain pose to build up their stamina, or a certain pose to relieve stress).
So, what about those people who already have a full time vocation and are looking for ways to combine their two hobbies into one? Cricket and table tennis are two sports that offer a great number of benefits, not just to those looking to improve their skills and general fitness levels, but also to those who simply enjoy the thrill and competitiveness associated with the game. Cricket is a game that is incredibly popular all over the world and is played by tens of millions of people of all ages. Table tennis, although not the most popular sport, has a tremendous following and is growing in popularity each day. If you want to join in the fun, both are a great way to do so! Of course, when it comes to something as individualistic as sports, it is difficult to think of another pastime that would benefit as much as these two.
One other area of sports, which has seen a surge in popularity is Yoga. It is not a new form of fitness, but the techniques have been refined and the emphasis on inner awareness has led to a new set of enthusiasts who spend every spare moment of their lives practicing. This has led to a rise in the number of people taking up and participating in Yoga exercises. No longer are Yoga athletes; now Yoga is a great way to get in shape and stay fit. Whether it is a set of asanas or just some relaxing back bending, Yoga is an exercise that is suitable to almost any person and offers great benefits to the body and mind.
