Sports have long been a part of the human experience, originating as a form of play for children. However, during the Renaissance, sports became more secular and became a form of physical education for adults. The 17th-century Czech educator John Amos Comenius is credited with popularizing the development of physical education. During this time, the European elite became more interested in geometric patterns of movement and dance, which became the basis for ballet. During the prehistoric era, hunters were depicted chasing their prey with joyful abandon. Some ancient civilizations took this idea as a calling, recognizing it as a healthy form of recreation.
The definition of a sport is often subjective, and different cultures have different definitions of the word. Various definitions have emerged, but a common understanding is that a sport is a physical contest between two or more people. This is in contrast to play, which is a voluntary, purposeless activity. Professional athletes are not considered a sport, and are excluded from this definition.
Sports are also used to create a sense of community. Whether a community is divided by class, religion, or ethnicity, sports are often used to create a common identity. A fan’s identification with their team is often intense, as they may feel hatred for their opponents. They can also experience despair when a player they idolize is injured, or excitement when a last-minute goal turns a defeat into a victory.
