Team sport is any sporting activity in which there are more than two people playing against one another. It includes sports such as synchronized swimming, curling, rowing eights, four-man bobsled and sprint relay races.

The biggest advantage of team sports is that they teach players to work together. They learn to rely on their teammates for motivation and support, and they learn to celebrate victories and mourn losses. These lessons in collaboration will help them as they move into the workplace and other social environments.

They also learn to respect authority. Athletes need to listen to their coaches and other leaders on the team, but they also need to be able to step up to take charge when needed. This kind of discipline is often learned through team sports and carries with it into the workplace and other areas.

It also helps children stay active and builds friendships that can last a lifetime. Being on a team means kids have to get up early, go to practice and often spend time away from home with their friends. This can prevent them from wasting precious time on video games, TV or other activities that can lead to unhealthy habits.

Athletes also build self-esteem, a critical factor in their emotional and social well-being. As a result, studies show that they are less likely to turn to drugs and alcohol and they perform better at school and in their jobs. They are also more likely to be engaged in community activities, which can further promote healthy living.