Athletics is a broad category of sports that includes running, jumping, and throwing events, commonly referred to as track and field. It is one of the oldest forms of organized sport and forms the foundation of many physical competitions. Athletics tests speed, strength, endurance, agility, and coordination.
Athletics is practiced worldwide and is a central feature of major international competitions such as the Olympic Games, World Athletics Championships, and continental tournaments. Events range from short sprints and long-distance races to high jump, long jump, shot put, discus, and javelin.
Beyond elite competition, athletics is widely practiced at school, amateur, and community levels. It promotes physical fitness, discipline, and perseverance and plays a key role in developing fundamental athletic skills across many sports.
