The term sports implies a physical activity that uses the body to move through an environment. It is a form of physical exercise that involves intense movement, burning calories and physical exhaustion. It helps improve physical and mental fitness. It also involves social relationships and competition at various levels. To understand what a sport is and how it is played, the definition of the term must be clear.
Sports often serve as important symbols of national identity and culture. They are used to construct a national identity, by outsiders and established groups alike. They can also serve as metaphors for national identity politics. Here are a few examples of the role of sports in nationalism. A sports team can represent a country’s identity and culture to both nationalists and non-natives.
Sports have long influenced the mass media. As the mass media expanded its reach and market, it began to focus more attention on athletes and sports-related issues. This included the 1988 Summer Games in Seoul, which were broadcast at prime time. This has led to criticisms of the media’s influence over sports, especially on commercial television networks.
While many critics of sports say they are too commercial, others argue that they should be monitored to ensure their long-term commercial value. Sports have become important symbols of power, prestige, and distinction.