Women's involvement in sports is becoming more and more popular, as evidenced by the growth of women's leagues in a multitude of different sports. And while this list may not be so comprehensive, here are five popular female sports to try out.
1. Field Hockey
Field Hockey is a popular women's contact sport. It is called "hockey" because it is usually played on the same kind of grass field that ice hockey players compete on. The two teams are made up of a goalkeeper and ten players who try to score by hitting the ball past the goalie with their sticks. Considered one of the fastest-growing field sports for females, field hockey has seen an increase in popularity due to the Olympics Games introducing it as a medal sport for both men and women. Although there is a multitude of different leagues and teams to participate in, many schools offer opportunities for students to get involved in this growing sport.
2. Lacrosse
Lacrosse is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and female players are carving out a space for themselves in what has traditionally been a male-dominated game. A popular sport with the collegiate crowd, lacrosse is a fun way to get involved in sports but doesn't require a high level of physical fitness or athleticism. In fact, the largest governing body in the U.S. lists lacrosse as a non-contact sport, meaning that injuries are relatively rare – which is great news for nervous beginners.
In the game of women's lacrosse, also known as girls' lacrosse or simply lax, there are always twelve participants on the field (including the goalkeeper). It was first taught there in 1890. St. Leonard's School, St. Andrews, Scotland. Women's lacrosse is played by a different set of rules than men's field lacrosse. Although they share the same ancestor, the two sports are generally viewed as distinct.
3. Softball
Another popular collegiate sport, softball is a team sport that doesn't require any major physical fitness or athletic ability. Fastpitch softball is played between two teams of nine players on a sizable field. Although slow-pitch softball requires ten fielders, it can also be played with nine.
The softball field is often made up of a grass outfield and a dirt or brick dust infield with a diamond-shaped configuration and running sections. The field, however, can also be made up of other stable, dry surfaces like asphalt or artificial grass. Softball is one of the fastest-growing sports at the collegiate level, and while it may not be as well-known as other women's sports, it does provide an opportunity to enjoy athletics without the need for expensive gear.
4. Soccer
One of the most popular sports around the world, soccer is a great way to get involved in sports with a wide variety of opportunities. From pick-up games on the beach to organized leagues and teams, soccer is an extremely popular sport that can be enjoyed by all ages. There are hundreds of thousands of active and aspiring female players. But despite the growth of women's soccer in recent years, there is still a lack of visibility and recognition for the sport among both men and women alike. And whilst major sports like football, basketball, and ice hockey have always been popular with men, it seems that this is changing rapidly.
5. Swimming
In 1908, the sport of swimming was added to the Olympic program, although women weren't allowed to compete until 1912. In the year in question, the 100-yard freestyle competition was won by Fanny Durack of Australia. Gertrude Ederle is credited with being the first woman to successfully swim the English Channel.
Many people are surprised by this one, but swimming offers you a low-impact activity to work on your fitness and improve your cardiovascular health. Although it might seem intimidating at first, swimming will help improve strength and endurance while also giving you a great excuse to get in the pool for a relaxing trip for a relaxing swim.
Of course, there are various other sports that are not listed here, but whether you are looking for something fun and relaxing or something more challenging, any of these sports can give you an opportunity to enjoy yourself.
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