Sports in Slovakia

Here links of some articles about sports we practiced / saw :

Running

Main objectives: Running a long time, a long distance ; running a certain distance the fastest possible ; keep fit.
Basic rules: No rules except follow the pathway during official races.
Required equipment: running shoes, sportswear, accessories.
Popularity and places of practice: All around the world.

Main objectives: Enjoy the landscapes, keep fit.
Basic rules: No rules.
Required equipment: Backpack (30L-50L), hike shoes, waterproof sportswear, hike poles.
Popularity and places of practice: All around the world.

Main objectives: Score more goals than the opposing team by shooting the puck into their net.
Basic rules: Six players per team on the ice, including the goalkeeper; no high-sticking, tripping, or interference; follow offside and icing rules.
Required equipment: Ice skates, hockey stick, puck, protective gear (helmet, pads, gloves).
Popularity and places of practice: Very popular in Canada, USA, Russia, Northern and Eastern Europe; played in ice rinks indoors and outdoors.

Main objectives: Score more goals than the opponent by getting the ball into their net without using hands or arms (except for the goalkeeper).
Basic rules: Eleven players per team; matches of two 45-minute halves; fouls, offside, and throw-in rules apply.
Required equipment: Football (soccer ball), cleats, shin guards, sportswear.
Popularity and places of practice: The most popular sport globally; played in stadiums, sports fields, streets, and beaches.

Main objectives: Travel a certain distance in water as fast as possible or for endurance; improve technique and fitness.
Basic rules: Follow specific stroke techniques (freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly) and lane assignments in competitions; no false starts.
Required equipment: Swimsuit, goggles, swim cap; sometimes fins or paddles for training.
Popularity and places of practice: Practiced worldwide in pools, open water, and at beaches.