Generally speaking, sports are physical contests where the aim is to improve physical abilities. Games can take place between teams or between individuals. They are usually governed by rules to ensure fair competition.
The development of sports is part of the larger globalization process. Sports also offer influential representations of communities and individuals. They can contribute to identity formation, particularly in the West. They are also a source of entertainment for spectators.
In the 19th century, sports largely emerged in the Western world. They have been marketed as signs of prestige and distinction. They have also been used to define the roles of athletes, coaches and fans.
The globalization of sports is characterized by the standardization of rules and the establishment of national sports organizations. There is also an increase in the variety of body cultures in local communities. Sports provide people with an opportunity to meet other cultures, which strengthens cosmopolitanism.
Sport is a part of every culture. Each culture has its own definition of sport. In the past, sports were mostly noncompetitive ritual performances, such as ball games. However, in the 20th century, organized games were formed. Some of the earliest games were ball games, such as kemari, which is a form of ball game that is played in Japan.
Sports were popular amongst ancient civilizations, including the Aztecs, the Egyptians, the Greeks and the Romans. Games such as wrestling, jousting and the Zoorkhanah martial art were also part of ancient Persian culture.