| Papers [141-154] of 994 :: [Page 11 of 71] | | Go to page : <— 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 —> | |
|
|
Cheerleading is a Competitive Sport, 2006.
This paper argues that cheerleading should be considered a competitive sport at the varsity level.
1,251 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 28.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper argues that cheerleading should be seen as a competitive sport. The author contends that cheerleaders are serious athletes who work hard during practices to memorize cheers, chants, stunts and dance moves. Additionally, the author believes that having cheering as a competitive sport will allow more scholarships and a chance for cheerleaders to compete on a competitive level. The cheerleading team at the University of Maryland, College Park is used as an example of a competitive cheer squad.
From the Paper
"Cheerleading is rapidly becoming an emerging sport due to its popularity in high schools and colleges. The NCAA Committee on Women's Athletics (CWA) is responsible for making recommendations to the NCAA Management Councils with regard to selection, retention and elimination of emerging sports. The committee considers a number of factors in determining if a sport has the potential to become an NCAA championship sport. These include: 1.There must be twenty or more varsity teams and/or competitive club teams that currently exist on college campuses in that sport; 2. There is support for that sport from various organizations, groups or associations; 3. There is an understanding that once identified as an emerging sport, all NCAA institutions wishing to sponsor the sport at the varsity level must abide by NCAA regulations."
| |
|
The Pilates Fitness Plan, 2006.
This paper describes the Pilates fitness plan and explores its success.
2,023 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 44.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The paper begins by illustrating the Pilates plan's success as the preferred alternative fitness plan. The paper explains the six major Pilates principles: breathing, concentration, centering, precision, control and movement flow/rhythm and the stability ball that is central to these exercises. The writer discusses the beneficial effects these exercises have on the body and explains that daily lives become more pain free and athletic abilities are enhanced. The paper concludes that the Pilates exercises will continue to gain popularity, helping to reduce pain and improving a person's performance in general.
From the Paper
"In Pilates, there exists a monumental focus on the quality of each movement, rather than the number of repetitions or rapidity with which they are performed. The body moves as one integrated unit, instead of isolating separate parts. Keeping proper alignment and form are crucial during exercise for achieving maximum benefits as well as preventing injury. (Crawford, 2002)
As Crawford writes, "Furthermore, training on a stability ball provides numerous benefits similar to those of Pilates, such as increased muscle tone and flexibility, improved posture, coordination and a greater sense of body awareness. The most significant difference is how the ball addresses core stabilization. Exercising on an unstable surface forces automatic recruitment of the body's core muscles to hold a position of balance."
| |
|
Ancient Greek Olympics and their Influence on Sports Today, 2006.
An examination of the influence of ancient Greece on the modern Olympic Games, the effect that religion, politics and finance has had in its evolvement.
5,994 words (approx. 24.0 pages), 15 sources, APA, £ 97.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines the origins and history of the Olympic Games. The original purpose and ideals of the creators have changed with time to what exists today. The influence of sponsorship, religion and politics are examined.
Introduction
The Site of the Games
The Olympic Program in Ancient Greece
Influence on Modern Sports
Athletes, Officials, and Spectators in Modern Sports
The Victors and Rewards in Ancient Greece
The Role of Women in Ancient Greece
The Politics in the Olympic Games in Ancient Greece
Politics in Modern Sports
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Researchers assert that, in the 1990s, more athletes and sports personalities than ever before have started to candidly articulate their religious faith in the presence of their adversaries, teammates, admirers, as well as, television cameras. They go down on your knees. They pray. They yell. They revel and position their fingers to the heavens, presenting thanks to the God, who they articulate has given them the bravery and power to contend and succeed in their selected sports. And when their workday is complete and their term is ended, they carry on to spread their religious expressions in the world outside sports, by means of their standing and superstar personality to attract both the juvenile and the old in a similar way into campgrounds, associations, programs, as well as, organizations whose reason is to serve the god."
| |
|
The Game Theory, 2006.
A comprehensive look at game theory, a separate and interdisciplinary approach to the study of human behavior.
1,915 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 42.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at the game theory, founded by mathematician John von Neumann, and the mathematics, social and behavioral sciences that are involved. This paper also reviews the definition of a game and the fundamental decision theory, a crucial factor pertaining to the game theory.
From the Paper
"A game refers to a strategic situation that involves at least two rational and intelligent individuals called players. The fundamental result of decision theory, which forms the foundation of game theory as well, is that each player's goal is to maximize the expected value of his or her own payoff. These payoffs are measured on some utility scale, which is merely a numeric depiction of each outcome that can be gained through the player's actions. Individuals have preferences that give them the opportunity to rank the outcomes with respect to one other. For each pair of outcomes, a player can say whether he or she likes one better than the other or whether he or she is indifferent about the two.
The logical roots for game theory are in Bayesian decision theory. In fact, game theory can be seen as an extension of the decision theory (Myerson, 1991, p.5). In general, a decision theory is an interdisciplinary area of study for practitioners in mathematics, statistics, economics, philosophy, management and psychology. "
| |
|
Negotiations and Baseball, 2006.
A look at labor disputes in Major League Baseball and the effects that a strike has on one of America's favorite sports.
2,180 words (approx. 8.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, £ 46.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses how a labor dispute resulting in a strike within Major League Baseball causes damage that is not only financial, but also psychological, often resulting in a loss of fans and followers. The psychic damage of losing fans is a major determinant in the baseball labor negotiations but very difficult to measure.
From the Paper
"How could the players and owners have avoided this strike? In the same manner that steel unions, farmers collectives, and other labor organizations handle disputes that arise between owners and employees: by negotiating more successfully. This paper will address the ways that negotiations between players and owners could have been made more successful in the dispute that led up to the 1994-1995 strike and subsequent damage to the game's reputation as well as the detriment to its finances. The methods which could have been utilized are primarily from Fisher and Ury's manual for negotiations, Getting to Yes. This guide outlines four steps in a successful negotiation: separate the parties involved, don't take stringent positions, invent options, and insist on objectivity. This paper will first explain a brief background of the dispute between players and owners in Major League Baseball and then examine each of these four options with regard to what the players and owners did, in light of what they could or ought to have done."
| |
|
Pilates as an Aid to Physical Rehabilitation, 2006.
A look at the history of Pilates and how Pilates is a great method of rehabilitation after knee and hip injuries or hip replacement.
2,870 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 10 sources, MLA, £ 58.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at the history of Pilates, an exercise that was developed at the turn of the 20th century. Pilates has become a very popular form of exercise, especially in knee and hip injury rehabilitation or for sufferers of repetitive strain injuries, and for anyone wanting to prevent the onset of osteoporosis.
Contents:
Principles of Pilates
Cruciate Ligament
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Miniscal Damage
Knee Replacement
Hip Replacement
Pilates Mat work Exercises
Exercises Using the Swiss Ball
Case Studies
From the Paper
"This is not "mindless exercise" but rather requires someone--in the case of rehabilitation, the therapist--to put some thought into the proper exercises and the proper order of exercises to accomplish the rehabilitation sought. Importantly, Pilates recognizes, in several of its principles, the fact that the torso ultimately controls actions of the extremities; therefore, the Pilates concentration on torso control and improvement cannot help but improve the use and function of muscles of the hip and knee in rehabilitation.
In addition, while most people think of hard, fast movements as being needed for building strength, Pilates movements are slow and methodical but through them, Robinson and Thomson note, strength is regained (2002, Positive Health Web site), a prime intention in almost any rehabilitation program."
| |
|
Legal Implications of Steroid Use by Amateur Athletes, 2006.
A review of the legal implications of steroid use by amateur or professional athletes today.
1,737 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, £ 38.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper provides a review and discussion of the scholarly and peer-reviewed literature concerning steroid use among amateur and professional athletes and the legal implications thereof, followed by an analysis of the salient issues.
Contents:
Introduction
Review and Discussion
Background and Overview
Effects of Steroids
Incidence of Use
Analysis of Legal Issues and Controversies and Reactions
Conclusion
From the Paper
"In 1976, amateur athletes were tested for prohibited substances at the Olympic Games in Montreal and again at the 1983 Pan American Games in Caracas, Venezuela; the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) banned anabolic steroids in 1973 and began random testing of student- athletes for performance-enhancing substances and recreational drugs in 1986. (Allison et al., 2003). Drug testing originally took place only at Division I football bowl games, and at some NCAA championships; however, since 1990, football players in Divisions I-A, I-AA, and II, as well as Division I indoor and outdoor track and field athletes, have been subject to drug testing all year long. Furthermore, Allison and his colleagues report that all NCAA student- athletes are subject to drug testing at NCAA championship events and at post-season bowl games (NCAA, 1998). Not surprisingly, the use of such drugs has attracted attention from those who would seek to gain a competitive edge over their peers as well as those who would attempt to discourage such usage. To better understand the rationale behind such efforts, the general effects of steroids are discussed further below."
| |
|
Violence in American Sports Today, 2006.
A review of published opinions regarding the violence exhibited on the sports fields of American high schools, colleges and universities.
3,580 words (approx. 14.3 pages), 15 sources, MLA, £ 68.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the tremendous growth of participation in amateur athletic events over the past few decades in terms of their scope, power and economic status and that in the United States alone, amateur athletics involve the lives and athletic experiences of people from their childhood through high school and college and beyond. This paper also discusses how high school and college sports are one of the most popular and important aspects of academic life today and that the camaraderie and fellowship that can emerge among sports players can possibly last a lifetime. The focus of this paper is on a disturbing trend towards violence in sports that has emerged in recent years. While injuries and mishaps can reasonably be expected to take place in any sporting event, there is frequently a fine distinction between intimidating tactics and violence that can result in serious injuries on the sporting field.
From the Paper
"While violence in collegiate sports has received much attention in recent years, a less publicized problem also exists. College athletes are highly popular figures on campus and in communities, but they are being unfairly treated in terms of how they are compensated for their efforts. While the performance of these student athletes on the field or court provides millions of dollars in revenue for universities, these students receive only their scholarships (usually comprised of tuition, room, and board), but no spending money. Furthermore, under current NCAA regulations, these student athletes are prohibited from even working part-time during the season. "Athletes have been caught trying to make money by getting loans from coaches and advisers," the author says, "selling the shoes and other gear they get as team members, taking allowances from agents, and getting paid for no-show summer jobs provided by jock-sniffing alumni--all violations of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) rules" (38). "
| |
|
Exercise and the Cardiovascular System, 2006.
A paper on how exercise helps health.
997 words (approx. 4.0 pages), 5 sources, APA, £ 24.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the topic of cardiovascular disease. The paper looks at how exercise affects the cardiovascular system in a positive way and how exercise also positively affects aging, obesity and the muscular and respiratory systems. The author states that scientists, researchers and physicians complete studies every year on the prevention of cardiovascular disease, and consistently, these studies show exercise can play an important part in reducing the instance of cardiovascular disease.
From the Paper
"Exercise should be an important part of everyone's life, because it is simply good for everyone. It is well known, even among sedentary Americans, that exercise has a positive affect on the heart and lungs, and it can improve heart health. Many physicians and experts acknowledge that aerobic exercise is extremely effective in promoting heart health. These doctors note, "This would appear also to be the case in understanding the relationship between reactivity and aerobic fitness. One of the consequences of aerobic-exercise training is a reduction in resting heart rate and blood pressure" (McCabe, Schneiderman, Field, & Wellens, 2000, p. 197). Reducing the heart rate and blood pressure leads to better cardiovascular health, and can help, along with a healthy diet, maintain this cardiovascular health throughout life."
| |
|
Michael Jordan, 2006.
An analysis of the life and achievements of the basketball celebrity, Michael Jordan
1,124 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 15 sources, MLA, £ 26.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper discusses the career and successes of Michael Jordan, the famous basketball star. The writer traces his career from its beginning as a winning freshman to the many championships won and medals received. The writer also includes Jordan's own opinions about his career, the view of his teenage son and of critics like Michael Hunt.
From the Paper
"Jordan is not only the best-known player in the history of basketball, he is considered the best-known athlete in the world (Michael2 pp). Born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Wilmington, North Carolina, he accepted a basketball scholarship from the University of North Carolina and as a freshman scored the winning basket in the 1982 NCAA championship game against the Hoyas of Georgetown (Michael2 pp). He was selected college player of the year for the 1983-1984 season, and in 1984 led the United States basketball team to a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, and that same year left college to play with the Chicago Bulls (Michael2 pp). Jordan announced his retirement prior to the 1993-1994 season, stating that he had lost his desire to play professional basketball (Michael2 pp). Initially known for his scoring, his tenacious defensive play had made him one of the greatest all-around basketball players in NBA history, as well as a worldwide celebrity due to his success in the NBA and the Olympics, and his numerous commercial endorsements (Michael2 pp)."
| |
|
Competitive High School Sports, 2005.
This paper argues extensively that competitive sports, as they currently exist in American high schools, are unhealthy for students.
3,275 words (approx. 13.1 pages), 9 sources, MLA, £ 63.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that scientific data indicates that high school competitive athletes were more likely to be popular but lack in maturity, to be trouble-makers, to use drugs and alcohol and to engage in promiscuous sex. The author believes that sports promote violence and plays a significant role in preserving and creating sexual and racial inequality. The author points out that, on the other hand, there are advantages to the students, such as pride in their successes, social acceptance, healthy activity in terms of physical exertion and muscle training and a bonding ritual that brings schools and communities together. The paper concludes that it would be far better for students to participate in physical activity and sports in a fun and less-competitive atmosphere in which all students who wanted to participate could join the teams and having fun remained the central goal of the event.
From the Paper
"Before this point can be proven, it is worth taking a moment to define the terms of this argument: competitive should not be taken to refer to the rules of the game, but rather to the focus of the game. A game which is competitive, in that the players compete with one another and the game rules requires winners and losers is not necessarily unhealthy for children. Children naturally compete to some degree in their games. However, in modern schools, games are not merely competitive by nature of their rules -- they are competitive by nature of their social ramifications and structure. Students not only compete while playing, but they also compete intensely for the mere privilege of playing, and continue to compete intensely not merely against their immediate opposition on the playing field but against all other teams in all other schools and even against their own teammates for recognition and possible promotion to the "Pros" or for college scholarships."
| |
|
Psychology of Sports, 2006.
A paper on the psychological aspects of sports training.
4,452 words (approx. 17.8 pages), 15 sources, MLA, £ 79.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper deals with psychology in sports training. The author asserts that performance in sports is significantly influenced by a variety of psychological factors, such as poor associations with memories of failure or self-confidence. As a result, the paper explains, many sports trainers now employ a variety of psychological aspects of sports training, such as visualizations, relaxation techniques, motivational strategies, and substance abuse management. The paper discusses at length the idea of self-talk and visualization and how these techniques can help athletes achieve better results in their given sport.
From the Paper
"Mental imagery has to be practiced by individuals in their own way and depends on individual preferences and the circumstances under which it is adopted. The imagery can be practiced either on or off the field. These can be for a short duration, or a long duration; while sitting up or lying down; in complete silence or with a background of music; and with the eyes closed or open. It is the choice of the individual. For games like tennis which go on for some time, this may be done by the player even while the game is on but the ball is not in play. The player can visualize where he or she wanted to hit the ball, or even practice it, without the ball. When a player is in a quiet room before an important game, he should engage himself or herself in an exercise of visualization for the game ahead. To be able to do this, the players should be relaxed and receptive as that will also help the images to penetrate deep inside their minds. It is important that visualization is repeated - about two or three times a week. (The Effects of Mental Imagery on Athletic Performance)"
| |
|
Sports Counseling and Ethics, 2006.
An overview of the code of ethics put together to guide coaches and counsellors regarding the treatment of sports players.
3,450 words (approx. 13.8 pages), 8 sources, APA, £ 66.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In counseling or coaching injured athletes, far more than their physical condition must be taken into account. Coaches and other counselors are charged, as well, with attending to the psychological, mental and even spiritual needs of the athlete. Because of this, there are ethical issues inherent in the coaching or counseling relationship. The paper explains that for such reasons, the American Counseling Association and the Association for the Advancement of Applied Sport Psychology have both put into place codes of ethics that can be used to help prevent abusive counseling/coaching relationships with injured athletes. The paper assesses how coaches and counselors can best assist injured athletes and avoid conflict of interest or other unethical considerations, by looking at the requirements of each code.
Paper Outline:
Introduction
Ethics and Standards
American Counseling Association (ACA) Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
Ethical Principles and Standards of the Association for the Advancement of Applied Sport Psychology
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"While one researcher noted that coaches were prone to act unethically in sending injured players back to the game too soon, it appears more likely that any ethical dilemmas facing athletes and coaches/counselors revolve around coaches failing to understand fully the injuries they might have to deal with regularly, and also failing to exercise the compassion the students in the Sherman study and other expressed a need for. The fact that coaches were seen, in one study, as distant makes it all the more important that we change our minds about what constitutes ethical dilemmas."
| |
|
Extreme Sports, 2003.
A discussion on and definition of extreme sports.
924 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 2 sources, MLA, £ 22.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper gives an etymological definition of extreme sports, expressing its French and Latin roots. Through example, the author puts extreme sports into context with regard to society and acceptance.
From the Paper
"Extreme sports are outside of the realm of mainstream experience and as a result, they lead to the creation of subcultures. Subculture is therefore one of the hallmarks of extreme sports, exemplifying the essence of the root meaning for "extreme." That which is extreme is outside of the ordinary. Therefore, an extreme sport, even if dangerous, cannot be part of mainstream culture. For example, most people in the United States do not play football, but football is certainly not considered to be an extreme sport. Football is for sure a dangerous sport, but it is also a mainstream sport, broadcasted live on national television networks, a sport that has become commonplace even to those who do not play. Skateboarding, on the other hand, is technically less dangerous than football but still carries with it a stigma of fringe culture and subculture. People who skateboard are labeled "extreme" because they are outside of ordinary mainstream culture. Therefore, extreme sports necessarily create subcultures around them that define them as being external to mainstream reality."
|
|
|
