Athletes and sports competitors compete in organized, officiated sports events to entertain spectators. When playing a game, athletes are required to understand the strategies of their game and 31 the rules and regulations of the sport. The events in which they compete include both 32 sports, such as baseball, basketball, and soccer, and individual sports, such as golf, tennis, and bowling. The level of play varies from unpaid high school athletics to 33 sports, in which the best from around the world compete in events broadcast on international television.
Being an athlete involves more than competing in athletic events. Athletes spend many hours each day practicing skills and improving teamwork under the 34 of a coach or a sports instructor. They view videotapes not only to critique their own performances and 35 but also to learn their opponents’ tendencies and weaknesses to gain a competitive advantage. Some athletes work regularly with strength trainers to gain muscle and to 36 injury. Many athletes push their bodies 37 during both practice and play, so career-ending injury always is a risk. Even minor injuries may put a player 38 of replacement. Because competition at all levels is extremely intense and job security is always unstable, many athletes train year round to maintain 39 form and technique and peak physical condition. Athletes also must 40 to strictly controlled diets during their sports season to supplement any physical training program.
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