Certain racket qualities are more conducive to hitting controlled smashes, but players should regard them as general guidelines while shopping. Selecting the right racket is a trial-and-error process.

The penalty area, also known as the 18-yard box, clearly defines where on the field a goalie may handle the ball. A goalkeeper can leave his box whenever he likes, but it always carries an element of risk. Few coaches, players or spectators feel comfortable when their goalie strays too far.

Soccer is a fast-paced game requiring speed, good footwork skills and accurate passing. The kind of pass you choose to execute depends on the defense and positioning of your opponents.

A volleyball carry is sometimes referred to as a catch, lift or throw. The rules for a carry are spelled out in the official rules of the game and it is the responsibility of the referee to determine if a player has violated a ball-handling rule.

Soccer cleats are worn by players to help them gain traction on various playing surfaces, including grass, sand and clay. Like most soccer equipment, the cleats must conform to several regulations. These regulations are instituted to maintain a safe playing environment for all players.

If you look at professional boxers, it seems reasonable that boxing will give you the cut, defined and impressive muscles the boys in the gym call "ripped." However, remember that professional boxers do a lot more about their fitness and physique than box.

Passing the ball in basketball requires touch, vision, dexterity and strength. Good teams have players who look to pass the ball to the open player to take the ball to the basket or get a good look for a jump shot. You can pass the ball effectively in several ways.

Basketball requires an excessive amount of running and jumping. The constant movement and lower-body trauma can lead to a number of injuries, from twisted ankles to shin splints and sprained knees.

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned veteran, five months gives you plenty of prep time to train for and complete a full marathon. Before even considering a 26.2-mile race, develop a base of running three to four days per week for six months or longer.

Football often comes down to the strategy that a team employs at the end of close games. Out-think and out-execute your opponent at crucial moments, and your team often will find a way to win. However, competing hard on a consistent basis requires focusing on the fundamentals of the game.

As a parent, you may be struggling to find a sports team for your child to play on. An important concern is whether your kid should play on a single-sex team or a co-ed team. A team mixed with boys and girls has many benefits, including friendship building and stereotype smashing.

Outside appearance may be the most obvious difference between an athlete and nonathlete. Athletic types tend to have more muscles and less body fat than more sedentary people.