Sports in Israel

The sports freak Israelis are particular about their fitness and the recreational activities to keep themselves healthy. The people of Israel are concerned about their fitness regime that is why Sports in Israel has acquired a special place in their society. Sports in Israel have developed as a part of the National culture of the country and a part of the daily life of the Israelis. The sporting culture of Israel is quite similar to that of the European style. Performances of the Israeli athletes can be found from the date before the establishment of Israel as an independent state and sports like Football and Basketball have shot up the list of popularity in no times. The national players are treated like Gods in the country giving them special respect by the people and the administration as well. The athletes from other sports too have won many accolades for the country making sports even more popular in the Israeli culture. Sports like athletics and handball developed fast in the recent past.

Traditionally Israelis have put more emphasis on production rather than production of quality athletes. This can be attributed to the fact that Israelis have to go through a military training after they turn 18 making them physically strong. Another cause for the participation can be the Jewish ethos which stresses on having a strong physique and a healthy mind but have never talked about the fierce competition.

The sports which have established themselves in the society in the best possible way are the Football and Basketball. In fact Football in Israel and Basketball in Israel are considered to be of the highest order. Other sports which have gained some popularity in the recent past are:

- Ice Hockey in Israel
- Baseball in Israel
- Tennis in Israel

Other than them Israel have won Olympic medals in sports like judo, canoeing and sail boarding. Apart from the competitive field many Israelis enjoy swimming and other activities like going on tiyul (hiking trips) and enjoying Matkot on the beach.