Italian people avidly watch sports on television, and most people practice a sport also in adulthood.
Italians think that sport is essential in the development of children and young people, especially for school children between the ages of 6 and 15.
During this period, sports contribute not only to their physical development, but also to social and emotional development, teaching key values such as respect for rules, collaboration, and perseverance but some sports are more popular among young people than others.
Figuring out what to do is anything but simple among personal wishes, schedules, commitments and costs. Finding the right balance between what children enjoy and what's beneficial for their development can be a bit of a challenge.
Soccer is undoubtedly the most popular sport among Italian children, especially boys. It is very popular because it is easy to play, requires little equipment, and is deeply rooted in the country's sports culture. Many children begin playing as early as preschool, often in local teams or youth clubs. Soccer promotes teamwork, coordination, and physical endurance.
In Italy, swimming is one of the most recommended sports for children between the ages of 6 and 15. It is considered a complete sport because it engages every muscle in the body and improves posture, breathing, and coordination. Furthermore, learning to swim is also important for personal safety and for these reasons, many families choose swimming as their first sport.
Artistic and rhythmic gymnastic and dance are widely practiced, especially among young girls. These disciplines help develop balance, flexibility, and body control. Dance, in particular, combines physical activity and artistic expression, making it highly appreciated for its creative side.
Team sports such as basketball and volleyball are becoming increasingly popular among children as both improve coordination, speed of movement, and a sense of collaboration.
Volleyball is also particularly popular at school, thanks to its widespread use in physical education activities.
Judo, karate, taekwondo and other martial arts are chosen by many families because they help children develop self-control, discipline, and respect for others.
Also individual sports such as tennis and track and field are also popular, especially among those who prefer to challenge themselves independently.
Although practising a sport for school children in Italy is almost a must-do, the importance of sports doesn't end with childhood: during adolescence, physical activity becomes even more crucial.
Adolescence is indeed a period of great physical, emotional, and social change and sports help maintain good psycho-physical balance, improve self-esteem and reduce stress. Playing sports during this stage of life also promotes the development of healthy habits, counteracting the onset of sedentary behavior or problems related to overweight and obesity, anxiety and depression. It's also a valuable opportunity to cultivate positive social relationships and learn to manage responsibility and discipline other than a great way to stay away from screens.
My son has decided to practice basketball and speed skating. Skating, especially speed skating and freestyle skating, is one of the sports on the rise among children in Italy, appreciated for the balance, coordination, and self-confidence it develops. Skating is popular because it stimulates creativity and it can be practised outdoors.
Sports practiced by young people in Italy are therefore numerous and diverse, and the choice often depends on personal preferences, age, and local opportunities. Whatever sport they choose, the important thing is that physical activity is experienced as a moment of fun and growth, contributing to the overall well-being of young people.
