An athlete is someone who participates in physical activities or sports, often competitively. A CONTENDER is a person who competes in a contest or race. An ACROBAT is someone who performs gymnastic feats of balance and agility. A CONTESTANT is someone who takes part in a competition or contest. A PERFORMER is someone who puts on a show or act. A GYMNAST is someone who performs exercises involving strength, flexibility, and balance. A HURDLER is someone who jumps over obstacles in a race. A RUNNER is someone who competes in races. A PLAYER is someone who takes part in a game or sport. A JOCK is an informal term for someone who is very involved in sports. A SPORTSMAN is someone who engages in sports or athletic activities.