Athletics

Athletics is a collection of sporting events that involve competitive physical activities, primarily including running, jumping, throwing, and walking. Athletics is often organized into track and field events, which take place on a running track and within a field area, and encompasses a wide range of disciplines such as sprints, middle and long-distance races, hurdles, relays, pole vaulting, long jump, shot put, and discus throw.

The origins of athletics can be traced back to ancient Greece, where the Olympics featured various competitive events. Modern athletics is governed by international organizations, such as World Athletics, which set rules and standards for competitions. Athletics is distinct from many other sports because it focuses on individual performance, although team events, such as relays, also exist. It emphasizes physical fitness, endurance, strength, and agility and is accessible to athletes of all ages and abilities, making it a fundamental aspect of physical education and sports worldwide.