Existential Philosophy and Sport

This essay first gives a brief overview of existential philosophy, including the most central aspects, key ideas and authors found in this tradition. From a common understanding of fundamental aspects of the human condition such as facticity as part of being-in-the-world, freedom regarding choice of project and attitude, and becoming as primary to being, it is presented as a branch of philosophy with inherent tensions and contrasting understandings. The chapter then outlines central positions and topics in existential philosophy, through which it describes sources and gives examples of ways in which existential philosophy has been, and prospectively could be, taken up in the philosophy of sport. Ideas from key existential philosophers are presented to describe aspects of existential meaning experienced in sport that can both be embodied, chosen and transcendent. Special attention is given to the existential understanding of bodily existence, ambiguous expressions, choice and anxiety, obstacles and resistance, as well as heightening and strengthening through contesting and practising. In this way the essay illustrates how existential philosophy can contribute to nurture an eye for both existential dangers and values in sport.