Introduction to Sports in the British Culture
Sports refers to all the various activities done for the reason of recreation. It can also be defined as a game, athletic activity or sporting event. Commonly, sports is commonly defined in terms of an organized competitive activity, including football or baseball. Many types of physical sports and some games are also known as sports.
A participant in any type of physical sport or activity is known as a participant. A participant in a game or competition is defined by one who participates whereas a spectator is defined by one watching. In the modern world, the term “sports” has various other meanings, depending upon the context in which it is used. The dictionary definition of the word is therefore often used as a synonym of “physical contest”.
In the medieval and Renaissance periods, sports was associated with religious events, war, and physical combat. In those times, sports was considered as a measure of social status. Because of the decline in standards of living during those times, sports were seen as a physical contest to prove one’s manliness or courage. Sports could be divided into several categories, like fencing, archery, wrestling, and sailing. Fencing, in particular, evolved as a sport for men to compete against each other.
During the Middle Ages, sports were associated with civic responsibility and religious zealotry. The sport of fishing, for example, gained popularity as a way of displaying the strength and skill of local fishermen. The concept of the game of golf spread throughout Europe, helping to create a common set of values that spread throughout the continent. Sports, therefore, became a great symbol of social class and a means of unifying the citizens of a country.
The idea of separation of sport and physical activity gave rise to the modern obsession with sports during the Renaissance. A new obsession with physical prowess and training was born. The games and competitions from this period can be found in many private collections all over the world. The Renaissance period witnessed the development of the first modern sports, including billiards and hunting.
Today, the idea of separation of sports and physical exercise is still a popular idea. Sports, however, has now become a significant part of the British culture. British people are passionate about their sports, especially golf, which they have made famous through the English language. There is also a strong competition in sports, especially with the growth of the Twenty20 tournaments. Sports, therefore, remains an important part of the British culture. A recent survey showed that nearly three-quarters of adults in England and Wales enjoy playing some form of sports, according to ONS (ONS National Sports Health Research).
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