Sports play an important role in American society. These popular activities help transmit values of fair play, teamwork, and justice. They also promote social integration and racial harmony. For more than three centuries, sports have been a social glue. Early American cultures stressed the importance of physical exercise, and they promoted swimming, running, and other forms of physical activity. In the 20th century, Presidents Clinton and Obama encouraged participation in sports, as did other prominent leaders.
Some sports are organized to promote sportsmanship, or the act of participating in a physical activity for its own sake. Famous sportsmen Pierre de Coubertin and Grantland Rice declared that sports should be played for its own sake, not for a prize. Other key principles of sports include that the outcome is unpredictable and that all participants have a fair chance of winning. Rules are in place to ensure fair play, but participants may break rules to gain an advantage.
While there are many types of sports, it is generally accepted that the majority of these activities are based on physical activity. Sports involve a variety of physical activities that promote fitness and mental health. Most involve some type of competition, and the main purpose of these activities is to entertain spectators and enhance one’s physical abilities. Sports also provide an excellent opportunity for social interaction and entertainment, and help children build a strong sense of self-esteem. It is the ideal activity for kids of all ages.