History of Physical Activity and Sport PDF

Chapter 2: History of Physical Activity and Sport Early history of sport and physical activity Stone Age: 3 Million BCE The Ancient Greeks: 800 - 50 BCE The Roman Empire: 50 BCE - 500 CE The Renaissance: 1400 - 1650 CE Industrial Revolution: 1760 - 1840 CE...

Chapter 2: History of Physical Activity and Sport Early history of sport and physical activity Stone Age: 3 Million BCE The Ancient Greeks: 800 - 50 BCE The Roman Empire: 50 BCE - 500 CE The Renaissance: 1400 - 1650 CE Industrial Revolution: 1760 - 1840 CE Victorian Era: 1837 - 1901 CE Ancient Greeks and the Olympics - The Greeks were the first to articulate how the pursuit of physical activity can improve not only our physical well-being but also our mental well-being. - To achieve that, the ancient Greeks developed the sporting events that formed the early Olympics Games - The first recorded Olympics took place in 776 B.C.E - The Orginal games feautuered just one event, a foot race or stade of approzimately 600 metres, but other sports were added later, such as wrestling, long distance running, discus, boxing, long jump and javelin. - The Greeks believed that gods bestowed extraordinary physical abilities upon athletes. - Winners often presented offerings to the temples as a gesture of gratitude for their success. - One before the Olympics started, an Olympic truce, or peace was called that allowed the athletes to journey to safely Olympia, the site of the games, without fear of attack by enemies that is still used untill this day. The Romans - Romans were heavily influenced by Greek sports and adopted many of their athletic practices. - Like the Greeks, the romans considered athleticism, or the diea of being physically fit to be an important part of a young mans education, they had a latin saying “ a sound mind in a healthy body - The Romans embraced boxing, as they favored more brutal sporting events compared to the Greeks. - In the hands of the Romans, boxing evolved into a gladiotior sport in which participants (usually slaves, prisoners, and later, perserucuted Christians) fough to death. - Once a gladiator had overpowered his oppopent, the audience in the arena was allowed t odecide whether the loser lived or died. If they wave their handkerchiefs, the loser would be spared; if they turned their thumbs down, the loser would be killed. - Participation in sports often reflected social status, with wealthy Romans hosting games and sponsoring athletes. - The romans declined atlhietic events around 500 C.E and the value placed on it declined and the Olympic Games disappeared. Later throughout the Middle Ages, athletic events were primary left to the elite. The influence of the Renaissance - The Renaissance, a period in European history form approximately 1400to 1650, was a time of expanding knowledge about art, lanugguaes, science, and history. - During this time, many people renewed an interest in Greek and Roman culture, especially art and architecture - Ancient Greek statues were unearthed and adimred for their beauty while Greek statues display the subject as very athletic - This period saw the rise of the concept “Renaissance Man” someone who is equally proficient and interested in a wiede variety fo scholarly and artistic puruists - Soon after “athleltism”was added to the liste, as more people began to acknowledge the benefits of physical activity for the body and mind - The pursuits of of science and study if human anatomy and physiology started getting more regocintion, thanks to thinkers like Leonardo da Vinci the ultimate Renaissance man. - In response to the revival of interest in the human body and its capabitlites, Italian physician Vittorino da Feltre started the first childhood physical educations classes in 1420.  Industrial Revolution & the Victorian Era - During the Industrial Revolution (from about 1760 to 1840) people moved to cities for factory jobs, they had less space for physical activity, creating a demand for organized sports and leisure activities. - The long hours and strenuous conditions of factory work emphasized the need for exercise to maintain health, leading to greater awareness of physical fitness - Cities began to develop public parks, playgrounds, and sports facilities, providing safe spaces for physical activities and encouraging public participation in sports. - Team sports, such as football (soccer) and cricket, became widely popular. These sports fostered community spirit and competition among different neighborhoods and social groups. - Sports offered a way to bridge gaps between social classes, as both the working class and upper class began to participate in and enjoy various athletic activities. - The Victorian Era emphasized discipline, hard work, and moral character. Physical activity was promoted as a way to develop these traits, with sports viewed as beneficial for personal development and social order. The ideal of the Amatuer Athlete - An amateur athlete is someone who participates in sports for the love of the game rather than for financial gain or professional status. - The concept emerged in the 19th century, influenced by the values of the Victorian Era, which emphasized that fair play and particaptioan were more important than winning. - They also believed that too much physical activity was harmful to a women’s delicate constitution. - Women gymnastic type exercise and relatively undeamaning activities such as croquet and lawn bowling were primarily forms of exercise deemed “appropriate” for women. - The Victorians sportsmen also believed that physical activity and sport “built character” and were therefore a vital part of a young mans education. Reflecting this belief, physical education and orgniaized sports progarms wre impleents in the growing Birtish public school system. Social significance of sport and physical education - In Upper Canada in the 1840s, Dr. Egerton Ryerson estahblisihed a public education system that became the foundation for the system we know today. - Physical education is increasingly recognized for its role in teaching valuable life skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Schools emphasize character development alongside physical skills, preparing students for challenges beyond sports. - Over time, there has been a shift toward inclusivity, with more emphasis on providing opportunities for all genders, ages, and abilities. This has led to the growth of women's sports, adaptive sports for individuals with disabilities, and programs for youth from diverse backgrounds. Modern Olympics and the rise of physical activity and sport The revival of the Olympic Games in the late 19th century - In 1896, Baron Pierre de Coubertin revived the original Olympics to form what has come to be called the Modern Olympic Games. - He wanted to create a large- scale sporting competition to promote the “sound mind in a healthy body” idea, however there was also evidence that wanted to toguhen up young frenchmen for the military - The first modern Olympic Games took place in Athens, Greece, in 1896. They featured 13 nations and 43 events, emphasizing amateurism and the spirit of competition. The Olympic Charter and the Olympic Movement - The first Olympic Games excluded Women and Non-European. - The first Game honoured the principles of competing against the best and focusing on competition rather than the price, and these principles influenced the youth of the world in a profound manner.  - The olympic Charter details the goals of the Olympic Movement of which competitive sports are only a part. The Charter emphasizes peace, tolerance, fair play, international understanding, and amateurism The Olympic Truce The idea of an Olympic Truce was a was to build friendly relationships between other nations, particularly nations in conflict dates back to ancient Greece The United Nations endorses the Olympic Truce, encouraging countries to respect it during the Games. The Olympic Truce reinforces the belief that sports can bring people together, transcending political and cultural differences. The truce aims to ensure safe travel for athletes and spectators to the Games. Impact of the modern Olympics on global sporting culture Brings together athletes from many countries, promoting friendship and cultural exchange. Increases interest in various sports, inspiring people to participate after watching the Games. Boosts funding and media coverage for sports, helping athletes turn professional. Olympians become global icons, inspiring young athletes with their stories of achievement. Host cities benefit from tourism and infrastructure development, but also face debates about costs. Showcases the cultures of participating countries through ceremonies and performances. Raises public awareness about the importance of staying active and healthy. Athletes use the Olympic platform to address issues like equality and mental health. Drives advancements in sports gear, broadcasting, and fan engagement.  Faces challenges like doping scandals and political issues, prompting discussions about integrity. Aims to leave lasting benefits in host cities, like improved sports facilities and youth programs. Inspires young people to engage in sports and embrace values like teamwork and discipline. equity in physical activity and sport Women Gains in Phyisical Activity and sport - In the nineteenth century and early part of the twentieth century, women had to fight against the so-called feminine ideal to enter certain sports. - Women were told that physical actitcy would inhibit their ability to have children, that their bones are weaker than men’s, that intense exercise would cause menstrual problems, and sports would cause them to gain “unattractive” muscles Title IX and its impact on Canada - Title IX is a U.S. law enacted in 1972 that prohibits discrimination based on sex in education and sports. - Title IX's emphasis on equal opportunities helped encourage more girls and women in Canada to participate in sports. - Inspired by Title IX, many Canadian schools and organizations began to increase funding for women's sports programs. - With more opportunities, female athletes in Canada gained visibility, becoming role models for younger generations. - The discussion around Title IX sparked greater awareness and advocacy for women's rights in sports and education across Canada. - Canada has its own laws promoting gender equality, such as the Canadian Human Rights Act, which complement the ideas behind Title IX. Changes Attiudes towards women in sports - When the first modern Olympic Games took place in 1896 , no women were allowed to complete because, according to societal attitudes of  the day, a womans ideal place was considred to be in the home caring for her family - In 1996 at the Games in Atlanta, however, 100 years after the frist Olympics and for the first time in history, Canada’s Olympic team consisted of more women than men. - The London 2012 Olympics were the first games in which women were allowed ot compete in every sport sporting/societal value relationships how did the concept fo being an athlelte has changed form the time of the ancient greeks and romans to the present Ancient Times: Athletes were often seen as individuals chosen by the gods, participating in competitions to honor them. Success brought glory, status, and sometimes material rewards. Modern Era: Today, athletes may compete for various reasons, including personal fulfillment, financial gain, fame, or social change. Professionalism has shifted the focus toward performance and results. Ancient Times: Participation was largely limited to men, with women largely excluded from major athletic competitions (e.g., the ancient Olympics). Modern Era: There has been significant progress in gender equality, with women now competing in nearly all sports at various levels, including the Olympics. Ancient Times: Many athletes were not paid but competed for honor. Gladiators in Rome, however, were often slaves or prisoners who fought for survival. Modern Era: Professional sports have emerged, where athletes are compensated financially and often pursue careers in their sports. Amateurism still exists but has evolved, especially with college athletes in the U.S. gaining opportunities for scholarships and endorsements. Ancient Times: Athletic events were often local or regional, with limited participation from diverse cultures. Modern Era: Globalization has transformed sports into international events. The Olympics and other competitions bring together athletes from around the world, promoting cultural exchange and diversity. Ancient Times: Success could involve brutal practices, and outcomes were often determined by public spectacle (e.g., gladiatorial contests). Modern Era: There are stricter regulations around fair play, doping, and athlete welfare. Ethical considerations have become paramount in how sports are governed and played. Ancient Times: Athletes primarily focused on competition rather than societal issues. Modern Era: Many athletes use their platforms to advocate for social justice, mental health awareness, and community engagement, recognizing their influence extends beyond the sports arena. Chapter 3: Business, Physical Activity and Sport amateurism vs professionalism - The essential difference between professional and amateur sports are that professional athletes are paid to compete while amateur athletes are not. - Amatuer athletes do not receive payment for competing. Their participation is driven by passion, enjoyment, or scholarship opportunities. - Each professional athlete is really an employee, or “worker”, doing a job to earn money in the system of economic exchange that governs many sports - Amateurs typically participate for love of the sport, personal development, or representing their schools or communities. They may receive scholarships but do not earn income from their athletic performance. For- profit sport vs. Not-for profit sport For-Profit Sport Focused on making money. Earns income from ticket sales, sponsorships, and merchandise. Involves paid athletes and professional leagues. Commercial Decisions: Driven by profit and marketability. Invests heavily in promoting teams and events. Athletes must perform well to maintain financial success. Event Hosting: Aims for large audiences and higher ticket prices. Not-for-Profit Sport Aims to promote participation and community engagement. Relies on grants, donations, and sponsorships; profits are reinvested.  Often includes amateur athletes and youth programs. Community-Centered: Prioritizes accessibility and inclusion for everyone. Many roles are filled by volunteers, including coaching. Athletes can focus on enjoyment rather than financial gain. Works to promote health and wellness in the community. Endorsements and sponsorships - Endorsements are agreements where athletes promote products or brands in exchange for payment or benefits. - Athletes often use their fame to influence fans and consumers, promoting everything from sports gear to beverages. - Endorsements can lead to long-term partnerships between athletes and companies, sometimes resulting in signature products. - Athletes often use their fame to influence fans and consumers, promoting everything from sports gear to beverages. - Successful endorsements can significantly boost an athlete's income and enhance a brand’s visibility. - One of the most successful athlete endorsement initiative of all time was the series of tevelsions ads for the gatorade sport drink with basketball star Micheal Jordan with the slogan being “I wanna be like Mike” - Michael Jordan no longer plays basketball but with endorsements, investments deals he earns $80 million a year. - Sponsorships involve companies providing financial support to sports teams, events, or organizations in exchange for advertising and promotion - Sponsorships increase brand awareness and can enhance the reputation of both the brand and the sporting. sport for profit & sport spin-offs Sport for Profit  This refers to sports activities or organizations that aim to generate revenue. Includes major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and NHL, where teams and athletes are paid. Income comes from ticket sales, merchandise, broadcasting rights, and sponsorships. Heavy investment in marketing and branding to attract fans and sponsors. Performance directly impacts financial success, leading to pressure on teams and athletes to win. Major sporting events are organized with the goal of maximizing profit, often drawing large crowds and media attention. Sport Spin-Offs These are businesses or products that emerge from the popularity of sports and athletes. Apparel, shoes, and gear branded with team logos or athlete endorsements (e.g., Michael Jordan’s Air Jordans). Creation of documentaries, reality shows, or podcasts focused on sports figures or events. Launching fitness classes or training programs inspired by popular sports or athletes. Video gaming leagues that mirror traditional sports, attracting a new audience and revenue stream. Travel packages centered around attending major sporting events, such as the Olympics or World Cup. Summary "Sport for profit" emphasizes the commercial aspects of sports, focusing on generating revenue through various means. "Sport spin-offs" are businesses and products that arise from the popularity of sports, expanding the industry and creating new opportunities. Both contribute significantly to the overall sports economy. influence of media on sport