World Athletics Day 2025: A Celebration of Athleticism and Health
World Athletics Day, observed annually on May 7, is a global celebration that promotes athletic participation, especially among youth, and advocates for health-conscious lifestyles. The day is marked by various events and activities organized by World Athletics, national athletics federations, schools, and local communities. This year, the 29th edition of World Athletics Day is being observed with great enthusiasm, amid rising concerns about youth inactivity, obesity, and mental health benefits of regular physical activity.History of World AthleticsWorld Athletics, formerly known as the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF), was founded in 1912, following the Stockholm Olympics. The organization was established to promote and develop athletics globally, and to provide a framework for international competitions. Over the years, World Athletics has undergone several transformations, including a name change to International Association of Athletics Federations in 2001, and a rebranding to World Athletics in 2019. The aim of World Athletics Day is to promote athletic participation, especially among youth, and to advocate for health-conscious lifestyles. The objectives of the day include:- Encouraging youth participation in athletics at the grassroots level- Promoting physical fitness through regular sporting activities- Instilling Olympic values such as fair play, integrity, and teamwork- Discovering young talent with potential for national and international competitions- Promoting gender equality in sports participation- Increasing awareness about the long-term benefits of an active lifestyleSignificance of World Athletics DayWorld Athletics Day holds immense significance as it promotes athletic participation, especially among youth, and advocates for health-conscious lifestyles. By reviving track and field sports, it helps build discipline, confidence, and sportsmanship in young athletes. The day also raises awareness about the long-term benefits of regular physical activity, combating sedentary lifestyles and promoting overall well-being. Furthermore, it strengthens international cooperation through athletics, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. By celebrating World Athletics Day, individuals and communities can come together to promote a culture of fitness, sportsmanship, and healthy living .India and World AthleticsIndia has a rich athletics tradition, with many talented athletes representing the country at international competitions. World Athletics Day is an opportunity for India to promote athletic participation, especially among youth, and to advocate for health-conscious lifestyles. The day is marked by various events and activities organized by the Athletics Federation of India, schools, and local communities. World Athletics is headed by a president, who is elected for a four-year term. The organization has a council that consists of 26 elected members, including the president, four vice-presidents, and representatives from six area associations. The council is responsible for making key decisions about the direction of the organization and the sport of athletics.Committees of World AthleticsWorld Athletics has several committees that manage specialist portfolios, including:- Cross Country Committee- Race Walking Committee- Technical Committee- Women's Committee- Development Committee- Governance Committee- Competitions CommitteeWorld Athletics Day 2025 is marked by various events and activities organized by World Athletics, national athletics federations, schools, and local communities. As India celebrates World Athletics Day, it is an opportunity to promote athletic participation and healthy lifestyles.