Language is a tool that connects us, and when it comes to the universal world of sports, that connection becomes even more important. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast visiting Catalonia or you simply want to enhance your language skills, understanding some key Catalan sports phrases can be quite beneficial. Here are a few Catalan phrases related to various sports and their uses. Let’s kick off!

Futbol (Football/Soccer)
The most popular sport in the world, including in Catalan-speaking regions, is “futbol.” This word is essential for anyone planning to catch a game or discuss the latest matches.

Vas veure el partit de futbol ahir a la nit?
(Did you watch the soccer game last night?)

Bàsquet (Basketball)
Another high-energy game that is loved worldwide. Whether you’re playing a game or discussing NBA stars, “bàsquet” is the word you’ll use.

El meu jugador favorit de bàsquet és a la NBA.
(My favorite basketball player is in the NBA.)

Ciclisme (Cycling)
Cycling, whether as a sport or a leisure activity, is quite prominent in Catalan culture. Refer to it as “ciclisme” while in Catalonia.

A l’estiu, m’agrada practicar ciclisme per les muntanyes.
(I like to go cycling in the mountains in summer.)

Natació (Swimming)
Swimming is not only an Olympic sport but also a great workout and leisure activity, known as “natació” in Catalan.

La natació és la meva activitat preferida a l’estiu.
(Swimming is my favorite activity in the summer.)

Atletisme (Athletics)
This encompasses a range of track and field events and is a fundamental part of the Olympics. “Atletisme” is the term you’ll hear.

L’atletisme inclou esdeveniments com la cursa de relleus i el llançament de pes.
(Athletics includes events like the relay race and shot put.)

Escalada (Climbing)
With Catalonia’s diverse landscapes, climbing is a popular sport, or “escalada” as the Catalans call it.

L’escalada necessita un bon equipament i força.
(Climbing requires good equipment and strength.)

Esquí (Skiing)
This is a seasonal sport enjoyed in the Pyrenees, referred to in Catalan as “esquí.”

Anirem a fer esquí aquest cap de setmana.
(We are going skiing this weekend.)

Surf (Surfing)
Though the word “surf” is borrowed from English, it’s widely acknowledged in countries with coastline, and Catalonia is no exception.

El surf és molt popular a la Costa Brava.
(Surfing is very popular in Costa Brava.)

Ioga (Yoga)
Yoga is also practiced widely in Catalan-speaking areas and is referred to as “ioga.”

Faig ioga cada matí per començar el dia amb energia.
(I do yoga every morning to start the day with energy.)

Equitació (Horseback Riding)
Horseback riding or “equitació” is an equestrian sport enjoyed by many in Catalonia, both competitively and recreationally.

La equitació és el meu esport preferit els caps de setmana.
(Horseback riding is my favorite sport on weekends.)

Rem (Rowing)
For those who are a fan of water sports, “rem” is the word for rowing, an activity that can be both competitive and casual.

Fem rem per mantenir-nos en forma.
(We do rowing to keep fit.)

Learning these Catalan phrases will not only add to your vocabulary but also make it easier for you to engage in conversations with locals about sports. Whether it’s watching a game, practicing a sport, or just talking about your favorite athletes, these words can help bridge the gap and make your Catalan sports experience even more authentic and enjoyable.