There’s nothing like trying out a new sport when it comes to breaking an old and boring routine. When one hears the word sport, one immediately thinks of something typical like basketball, soccer, or tennis. Why not have a hand at something a little bolder and unconventional?
Whether the goal is to increase one’s fitness, spice up a month of vacation, or simply try out something new, this list of sports may just fit the bill.
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Rock Climbing
For people who want to test the limits of their physical capability while enjoying the surrounding nature, rock climbing will check every box on their list. This sport comes with the interesting combination of benefits:
- Giving the whole body a workout (plus a tan for outdoor climbing sessions)
- A unique mental challenge
- A chance to spend some quality time with a loved one or a friend
Rock climbing is great for beginners because of its apparent simplicity. There are no rules to worry about. Scaling a surface and reaching the top are the only things one needs to worry about.
Safety first: before buying climbing gear, always make sure that these tools meet the international safety standards for climbing and mountaineering.
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Kayaking
Kayaking is a versatile sport because it’s a low-impact activity, so people who want a milder exercise to improve their fitness can still enjoy it. Low-impact activities reduce the risk of exerting too much strain on the tissues and joints while retaining all the health benefits of a regular sport.
Kayaking will improve one’s cardiovascular and muscular strength, and many consider this activity to be stress-reducing, especially when done for recreation. The refreshing rush of the surrounding waters and the calming scenery that normally comes with it is reason enough to try out kayaking.
Safety first: the National Safety Council has reading materials that extensively cover all the necessary safety information for water-based activities.
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Shooting
Firing a gun at a designated target is a thrill. Shooting is a sport that requires an ample reserve of concentration, nerve, and skill. It builds up stamina, strength, fine motor skills, and hand-eye coordination.
Unlike most conventional sports, shooting doesn’t really rely on physical strength; instead, it focuses on mental power, so people of any age can play competitively. In the 1912 Olympics, Oscar Swahn won gold at the age of 64! This is the perfect sport for those who want a meticulous activity that rewards practice and careful planning.
Safety first: before anything else, make sure your gun is in top shape, and outfit it with the right accessories to improve shooting accuracy while reducing risks of injury.
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Surfing
Do you know that surfing came from Hawaii? Today, people from all around the world surf wherever there’s a wave. Granted, not everyone is lucky enough to live near the ocean and be able to surf any day.
But to those who do, it’s an opportunity that shouldn’t be squandered. Not only is surfing a great way to stay healthy and fit, but it’s also a fun recreational activity with its very own culture.
Safety first: make sure to check the weather properly because many surfing accidents happen due to the lack of foresight. Surfing can always wait another day.
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Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is a unique underwater sport that can be done recreationally and competitively. One can enjoy the hidden depths of a coral reef and enjoy the aquatic wildlife or compete with other divers inside a swimming pool.
This sport comes from Spain to promote local scuba-diving activities, with many European countries taking part in the event. One can play solo or in a team, and the courses are typically done by finishing them as quickly as possible.
Safety first: the safety of a scuba-diving expedition largely relies on the quality of equipment. Make sure that every diving gear you have has been certified by the ISO.
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Paragliding
Many consider paragliding an “extreme” activity that’s reckless or unsafe, with adrenaline junkies being the target audience. However, this is far from the truth because paragliding is one of the safest flying-related sports.
Paragliders are connected with over 30 lines to their wings, all of which have the individual strength to support the glider’s weight. The risk of wing collapse or deforming is extremely rare, but even if so, there are safety measures to ensure the glider’s safety.
Safety first: For first-timers, always get a paragliding pilot and instructor who’ve been certified by the AAPI.