RECREATION AND SPORTS

Introduction

Community centers and associations have played a significant part in the life of many
local communities and networks. The new social centers are not limited to recreational activities,
and most important because ‘socialized schools’, could act as magnets attracting, citizens whose
segregation into class and ethnic groups had obscured their common bonds, loyalties, and
responsibilities. Like social settlements before them, social centers would harmonize and
encourage cooperation among the working class and immigrant elements and at the same time
ease some of the difficulty of depressed life.
It is believed that people occasionally need a break from their routine activities and
therefore providing community and recreational activities would allow them to develop different
skills. Basic enjoyment arising from simple barangay “palaro” would encourage youth
participation and may promote actions against drugs. Recreational activities are not limited to the
youth – hence, elderly activities are also thought of and made possible over time. These would
include sport-related activities, educational and even musical sessions.

Definition of Recreational Activities

 is a leisure activity, which is done free time
 sometimes referred to as play for the young and diversion for the adults, because they are
enjoying the activity

Lopez et.al, (1993) defines it, as a worthwhile, socially accepted and socially constructive
leisure experience that provides immediate and inherent satisfaction to the individual who
voluntarily participates in the activity.

Other definition given by Coloma & Herrera (2004) state that:

 It is an activity that diverts, amuses or stimulates a person
 A diversion that occupies one’s time and thoughts, usually pleasantly
 An activity that refreshes, renews health and spirit of enjoyment and relaxation

Values of Recreational Activities

1. Engaging in favorable sports could develop good health, muscular strength, power,
agility, flexibility, etc.
2. Proper conduct and behavior among participants could also be developed through group
activities.
3. Joining ion the leagues, clubs and other smaller organizations could give the out of
school youth the opportunity to socialize through group work in the form of play and
other extracurricular activities instead of roaming in the streets to create trouble.
4. Organizing competitions in the different enjoyable activities such as sports and games,
dancing, and other activities can develop the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play.
5. Leisure time activities could bring happiness to a person.
6. Sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership and honesty could be developed in joining sports.
Types of Recreational Activities

1. Physical
 aerobics
 dancing
 group games
 minor sports
 outing like field trips, picnics, hiking and camping

2. Social
 parties, dancing
 evening dinner with friends

3. Cultural
 arts and crafts
 glee club and choral groups
 dramatics, concerts and lectures

4. Intellectual
 poetry writing
 song writing
 reading
 research and investigations
 short story and novel writing
 answering crossword puzzles
 playing chess
 scrabble