Professional athletes compete in athletic events as members of a team or as individuals.

Professional athletes compete in events such as:

• Basketball
• Baseball
• Football
• Golf
• Tennis

There are professionals in many other sports as well. Ice hockey, soccer, auto racing, rodeo, track and field, and horse racing are a few.

Professional athletes spend most of their time preparing for competition. They practice the techniques of their sport and exercise to maintain their fitness to play. Some train full time, while others train and compete for just a portion of the year.

Many athletes have coaches or trainers who tell them which exercises to do each day. They also follow nutrition advice and see other health professionals for advice and care. They maintain any equipment used when training and competing.

Many professional athletes make public appearances. They attend fundraising events, parties, and sports clinics. At these events they speak to the public. They may demonstrate their sports skills or teach others at these events. They speak to the media, sometimes as part of a professional contract.

Many athletes work in addition to competing. Some athletes have jobs that are related to their sport. For instance, professional golfers may give lessons, manage golf courses, and sell golf equipment. Extremely successful athletes may appear in commercials in addition to competing.